The African proverb “If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together” has been her compass for life. Inspired by a rich circle of international friends from a young age onwards, she followed my passion for social justice, sustainable development and good governance starting my career as advisor to one of Cambodia’s leading human rights organisations, followed by various programme management jobs at international non-profits (Oxfam Novib, CARE, Save the Children) as well as for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Ethiopia.
After enriching work experiences on most SDG themes abroad and in the Netherlands, she came to appreciate the power of education. Embracing the value of applied science Maaike chose to join THUAS’ Centre of Expertise on Global Inclusive Learning: a fitting host for her drive for bringing great minds together to work in partnership on global challenges.
Maaike obtained a MA in political science / international relations, University of Amsterdam and holds a post-graduate certificate International Sustainable Development, University of Applied Science Leiden.