Growing up in the deep south of the Netherlands, I knew two things for sure: I was born in the wrong country (too cold, too grey, too rainy), and one day, I wanted a big family. In my late teens, I added a third: I wanted to live with intention — to become who I was meant to be and leave the world better than I found it.

After earning my Master’s in International Relations, I worked for a Human Rights Organization, an International Management School, and a Consultancy Firm. I traveled the world, met inspiring people — and yet, I felt called to more.

So I signed up for a post-executive program to become a trainer and coach, and founded Mindbreeze in my early 30s — long before I fully understood what it meant to live a truly intentional life. Back then, I was working with leaders and change-makers across the globe. I was ambitious, qualified, and confident — but I hadn’t yet lived what I now teach.

Then life changed course.

After losing our daughter, my husband and I — with her twin brother — left the traditional path behind. We moved countries, lived off-grid on a boat for over a decade, homeschooled our three children, and spent long summers traveling in Europe. It wasn’t always easy or clear — but it was free, intentional, and deeply formative.

When we eventually settled in Portugal, we chose a more conventional life: house instead of boat, kids to big building school, schedules governed by others. And with that shift in freedom, my sense of purpose as a full-time homeschooling mom flew out the window.

I trained for two half Ironmans in my late 40s — not for medals, but to regain clarity and purpose. I became president and lead official of an international swim team — not for the title, but to support my kids and build community.

And when midlife arrived — bringing the quiet unraveling of identity, menopause, grief, and an emptying nest — I did what I’ve always done: I asked the hard questions. And I listened closely for the answers.

Now in my 50s, I’ve brought Mindbreeze back to life, online this time — not as a career move, but as a continuation of my calling. This time, it’s built on lived wisdom. On the power of presence. On the belief that it’s never too late to begin again — and now, I do it in full alignment.