You know those people who never give up? I’m one of them. Spent 19 years as a humanitarian professional across MENA, Asia and in Guantanamo Bay. Am fascinated by potential to translate research in linguistics & society to help solve real-world problems, particularly with Critical Discourse Analysis & Corpus Linguistics. Love everything to do with language. I am a Dutch national educated in the UK and spent most of my life abroad. 

Actively developing my research skills to combine my passion for language with a will to make a difference in people’s lives. I write to inspire and aim to awaken the untapped potential of ideas.

Working for the ICRC taught me to be humble, creative, adaptable and persistent in the face of all odds, with the end goal of safeguarding the life and dignity of people affected by war. I have spent years monitoring the conditions and treatment of detainees, reconnecting family members separated by armed conflict and finding those who went missing. I have also worked on humanitarian policy issues, finding practical ways to promote and strengthen respect of International Humanitarian Law (IHL) as well as obtain support for ICRC’s mandate and work. I have gained experience fostering meaningful relationships to help raise funds for humanitarian work in conflict zones. 

Strongly believe in human values. Constantly looking to find ways to address inequity in society. Passionate about helping others grow & achieve their dreams. Take satisfaction in transforming complex issues into easily understandable solutions. Believe in turning the impossible into possible. Learned that we can always make a difference in others’ lives, no matter how small.

My motto: “Model the behaviour you want to see in others.”

Interested in meeting new people, taking on new research projects and public speaking opportunities (in person or online).

Check in regularly for the latest updates.