To reach goals in life, I learned how important it is to recognize opportunity when it appears, then grab it and give it all you got. Being born in Surinam and raised in the Netherlands, I took every chance I had to further my education, eventually graduating with two Master’s degrees: one in Science and one in Business Administration. I went on to an international career working for industry leaders, such as Mastercard, AT&T, KPN Telecom, Ziggo in demanding business management roles. Climbing the ranks wasn’t easy, though. Without the benefit of a professional supporting network (family and friends didn’t know anything about business), I had to rely on my own resources to overcome obstacles and carve out a path for myself.

Then I entered the field of entrepreneurship, having launched small companies in narrow casting, publishing and crowdfunding.

I’m passionate about civic engagement, spent 8 years in politics and worked as an alderman in the Southeast district of Amsterdam. I held advisory board positions in the social and education sector. Today, I lecture on negotiations and entrepreneurship at the Amsterdam University of Applied Sciences.

Having enjoyed a flourishing career in business, politics and civil organizations, I still consider myself a “work in progress” and believe that people go farthest when they go together. My clients are more than just trainees or mentees. We are fellow travelers on a journey of self-discovery and development. Together, we will build our skills and confidence so that when opportunity comes along, we are ready to recognize it and act on it.

My book “Negotiating Is (Not) for You” is available in paperback and ebook (on bol.com) and e-book format (on Kobo).