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Wittenborg Receives Positive Feedback from Students and Agents in Albania
by Wittenborg News -

Wittenborg Receives Positive Feedback from Students and Agents in Albania


Wittenborg Receives Positive Feedback from Students and Agents in Albania

Kejsi Hoxha Represents Wittenborg at Career Week in Albania

Kejsi Hoxha, Agent Management Administrator at Wittenborg, recently represented the organisation at the Open University Stands Day - Career Week 2024. The event, organised by Turgut Ozal Education Company in Tirana, Albania, provided a platform for business schools and universities with partnerships to showcase their offerings to prospective students.

Reflecting on the event, Hoxha highlighted its significance as the first ever initiative organised by Turgut Ozal Education Company for all partner universities. "It was a fantastic opportunity for universities to present their programmes and engage with students as they plan their academic futures," Hoxha stated. 

Wittenborg was among the distinguished institutions represented at the event, alongside five other international universities and local counterparts. Hoxha described the atmosphere at Wittenborg's stand, noting a high level of interest from attendees. "Our stand was the busiest, attracting attention from students considering various study options," she explained.

"The positive feedback we received about Wittenborg's cost-effective programmes and the popularity of business degrees in Albania was incredibly encouraging," shared Hoxha. "It reaffirmed our commitment to providing accessible and quality education to students."

In addition to engaging with prospective students, Hoxha is now preparing to conduct a webinar tailored to the interests of students met during the event.  

Beyond interactions with students, Hoxha also met with agents during her trip. Their surprise upon learning about Wittenborg's guarantee of accommodation for students highlighted the school's commitment to student welfare. "They were very surprised to learn that Wittenborg guarantees accommodation," Hoxha explained. "Some of the agencies assist students in finding accommodation, which can be difficult. With Wittenborg providing that, it just makes it a lot easier."

WUP 28/03/2024 
by Erene Roux 
©WUAS Press 

Wittenborg Receives Positive Feedback from Students and Agents in Albania Wittenborg Receives Positive Feedback from Students and Agents in Albania Wittenborg Receives Positive Feedback from Students and Agents in Albania

304 words

Wittenborg Returns to Lithuania and Latvia
by Wittenborg News -

Mykhailo Huba shares highlights from the Baltic Education and Career Fair 

Wittenborg's Admissions Manager, Mykhailo Huba, recently showcased the school's many offerings at the Baltic Education and Career Fair, held in Vilnius, Lithuania, and in Riga, Latvia, on 2 and 3 March.

The event, organised by educational services leader Kalba, provided a platform for prospective students to explore educational opportunities in various countries, including Germany, Ireland, Norway, the UK, Italy, Spain, Cyprus, the USA, Switzerland and, of course, the Netherlands.

Reflecting on the experience, Huba offered insight into the event's highlights and the unique charm of Vilnius and Riga. "The standout at the event was the organisation itself and the students who visited Wittenborg's booth," he remarked.

During the fair, Huba had the opportunity to explain Wittenborg's unique selling points in depth, including its six entries per year. He also informed prospective students about life in the Netherlands, the current housing situation and scholarships.

Huba further explained that attendees in the Baltic region responded very positively to the offerings and opportunities at Wittenborg. "Most of them are interested in studying in the Netherlands. Wittenborg turned out to be an attractive option for them."

Huba shared that Vilnius and Riga also left a lasting impression on him. "Lithuania and Latvia are somewhat like Belgium and the Netherlands; they are quite similar in terms of culture, language and customs. What is common for both is that the youth is generally progressive and does not have an 'old mindset'. Almost everyone that I have met there speaks good English, and they are very knowledgeable about the current situation in the world."

Kalba also shared that the exhibition was more successful than ever – with well over a thousand students and their parents interested in the possibilities of studying abroad. "The full halls of young people and all of the consultations with representatives show that interest in studying abroad is constantly growing."  

WUP 27/03/2024

by Erene Roux

©WUAS Press 


340 words

Apeldoorn Deputy Mayor Nick Derks Discusses Collaborations with Wittenborg
by Wittenborg News -

Apeldoorn Deputy Mayor Nick Derks Discusses Collaborations with Wittenborg


Apeldoorn Deputy Mayor Nick Derks Discusses Collaborations with Wittenborg

Derks Visits School and Meets with Students, Housing Team and Executive Staff

Wittenborg had the pleasure of welcoming Apeldoorn city councillor and Deputy Mayor Nick Derks for a visit on 15 March. Derks, who is responsible for the economy and higher education at the Municipality of Apeldoorn, came to the school with the goal of gaining further understanding of the demands of the sector, gathering policy insights and discussing possible partnerships.  

In addition to visiting Wittenborg’s housing facilities, where he met with the housing team and also spoke to some of the students, the councillor also attended a session with a group of international students and a meeting with the school’s management team.  

Apeldoorn councillor and Deputy Mayor Nick Derks said he was grateful for the warm welcome from the Wittenborg family. “It was inspiring to speak to these motivated students about the issues they encounter in Apeldoorn. I'm already looking forward to my next visit to Wittenborg.” 

The school’s CEO, Maggie Feng, thanked Derks for his visit and highlighted that the meeting was very productive and insightful. She also emphasised Wittenborg’s commitment to keep working hard and making Apeldoorn home to talents from all over the world.  

“Our student housing team enjoyed the attention and was proud to show Nick the studios that are so popular among our students. Students and colleagues also appreciated Nick’s visit to the classroom: they had the chance to express their challenges but also their gratefulness for being the new citizens of Apeldoorn. Finally, the executive and advisory boards had a fruitful discussion with him about the future of Apeldoorn. We delved into topics such as higher education and research, collaborations, the revitalisation of the city centre and the newly launched Expat Centre Central Netherlands,” she said.

Apeldoorn Deputy Mayor Nick Derks Discusses Collaborations with Wittenborg

Wittenborg's Director of Governance, Karen Penninga, highlighted the importance of the school’s connection to the local government. “In addition to attracting a significant number of international students and professionals to Apeldoorn, Wittenborg has been involved in several initiatives that have a positive impact on the city. Therefore, these partnerships are mutually beneficial and contribute to local and regional growth.” 

According to External Relations & Events Manager Sophia Faraji, Derks’ visit was incredibly valuable. “The opportunity for our international students to engage directly with local authorities like Nick not only fosters a sense of community but also allows for crucial dialogue about the students’ experiences and needs while living and studying in Apeldoorn.” 

She adds that during the conversation students highlighted the importance of strengthening the relationship between local businesses and international students. In Faraji’s view, this exchange of ideas not only benefits students but also contributes to the development and growth of Apeldoorn as a vibrant international city. 

Apeldoorn Deputy Mayor Nick Derks Discusses Collaborations with Wittenborg

“Nick's receptive attitude towards the students’ feedback was truly encouraging, and I believe this type of interaction lays a solid foundation for ongoing collaboration between students and local authorities. It's moments like these, when diverse voices are heard and respected, which remind us of the power of dialogue and the potential for positive change. We look forward to the continued engagement and partnerships that enhance the student experience and enrich the fabric of Apeldoorn's multicultural landscape.” 

IBA student Alexandra Kukthina, who is also Wittenborg’s External Relations & Events Administrator, explained that the session involving Derks and the students centred on relevant local topics. These included the housing crisis in Apeldoorn, ways the municipality could help international students to integrate into the local business community and the aspects of the city that are valued by students such as its greenness, safety and cleanliness. 

“I felt honoured to attend the Deputy Mayor’s session and I consider it a great opportunity provided by Wittenborg. This activity gave international students the chance of raising concerns on important topics to a representative who may contribute to finding and implementing solutions. On top of that, we also got to know the future projects for the development of Apeldoorn.” 

WUP 26/03/2024 
by Ulisses Sawczuk 
©WUAS Press 


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Global People Lunch & Talk on the Power of Failure and Being Yourself
by Wittenborg News -

Global People Lunch & Talk on the Power of Failure and Being Yourself

https://www.wittenborg.eu/global-people-lunch-talk-power-failure-and-being-yourself.htm

Global People Lunch & Talk on the Power of Failure and Being Yourself

Dr Elijah Sanches Inspires with Insights on Failure and Risk-Taking 

In a recent Global People Lunch & Talk, Wittenborg staff and students were treated to an insightful discussion led by Elijah Sanches, a 28-year-old doctor specialising in public health and prevention of domestic violence, child abuse, elderly abuse and sexual violence.  

From Doctor to Entrepreneur

On 14 March, Sanches kicked off his session titled 'The Power of Being Yourself' at Wittenborg's Amsterdam study location by emphasising the significance of failure. Sanches' dialogue particularly focused on the importance of taking risks in any entrepreneurial journey:  

"A lot of people I meet are very successful. They're millionaires, they're doctors, they have a good job. And when I ask them how they got there, they always tell me, 'I failed a lot'. The lessons I've learned during my five, six years as an entrepreneur are from failing. If everything is going well, you don't learn anything. When you fail, you have to think about what you can do better and find solutions."

Sanches, who initially wanted to be a plastic surgeon, went on to become a medical professional. But what he liked even more than that however, was being an entrepreneur. Sanches later co-founded Invicta Academy in 2019, a venture dedicated to providing education at all levels of the Dutch education system. Additionally, he founded Ankie – named after his mother – which focuses on delivering care to elderly individuals within the comfort of their homes.

Throughout the talk, Sanches shared anecdotes from his entrepreneurial ventures, highlighting the challenges he faced and the innovative solutions he devised.  

He recounted how, during the COVID-19 pandemic, his tutoring company encountered obstacles due to school closures and personnel shortages. However, instead of succumbing to the challenges, Sanches and his team pivoted to offer an online curriculum, pioneering a new approach in the tutoring scene.  

Global People Lunch & Talk on the Power of Failure and Being Yourself

The Power of Being Yourself

Sanches also delved into his unconventional career choices. He encouraged the audience to pursue their passions, stating, "Just find things you like and things you enjoy. You can learn anything. You are on a level of intelligence where everything is trainable. Of course, some people learn it easier. But starting a company is, in my opinion, not the hardest thing to do. The hardest thing to do is to make it a successful company. And then you have to try things. And not everything works."

Throughout the talk, Sanches urged attendees to always challenge themselves and embrace opportunities outside their comfort zones. He encouraged individuals to navigate their own paths, stating, "Sometimes you just have to challenge yourself. I took risks that other people didn't want to take. And the worst thing that can happen is for example, I start a degree, I don't finish. Or I start a company and go bankrupt. So you can have checks and balances with that."

Sanches left staff and students with a great message of empowerment and resilience, urging them to pursue their entrepreneurial endeavours with courage and determination. "Just do it," he said, and "don't be afraid of being first, changing your initial decision, or even disappointing others".  

Amy Abdou, Senior Lecturer at Wittenborg, expressed her enthusiasm about the talk, stating, "Dr Sanches spoke eloquently about the need to be true to yourself. This is something that is essential for young entrepreneurs to understand."  

She said that entrepreneurship is not about designing the best possible plan, but rather the combination of the entrepreneur's identity, network and knowledge.  

"By sharing personal aspects of his journey, " she continued, "from challenges he faced at university to the failure of his first enterprise, Dr Sanches wove a story of triumph in the face of adversity. He is a natural entrepreneur who exudes confidence and kindness."

WUP 25/03/2023 
by Erene Roux 
©WUAS Press 


654 words

Wittenborg Remains Popular Among Prospective Students in Türkiye
by Wittenborg News -

Wittenborg Remains Popular Among Prospective Students in Türkiye


Wittenborg Remains Popular Among Prospective Students in Türkiye

Wittenborg Representatives Attend the StudyExpo International Education Fair in Türkiye 

In a bid to offer prospective students a glimpse into Wittenborg's diverse educational programmes, Senior Communications Manager Sinem Dosdogru and Admissions Administrator Amin Nadervandi recently took part in the StudyExpo International Education Fair in Istanbul and Izmir.

From 24 to 27 February, a variety of schools from over 30 countries, including the United States, Germany, Australia, and South Africa, attended the fair. Notably, Wittenborg stood out as the only representative from the Netherlands.

Dosdogru and Nadervandi interacted with a crowd exceeding well over 250 people, all eager to explore study options in the Netherlands. Dosdogru said, "We had the longest queue from beginning to end of the fair, both days. It was remarkable."

Nadervandi noted the unique position Wittenborg held as the sole Dutch business school present, attracting significant interest from individuals and students aspiring to study in the Netherlands. He quipped, "We didn't take any coffee breaks due to the continuous flow of visitors queuing in front of our stand."

Dosdogru shared anecdotes of prospective students' enthusiasm, such as a group of five friends keen to study abroad together and a family with twins, both eager to pursue studies in the Netherlands.

She also answered common queries surrounding housing, language preferences and visa processes, underlining Wittenborg's commitment to providing comprehensive support.  

"Prospective students were appreciative of the fact that Wittenborg guarantees accommodation to new students in Apeldoorn. Many postgraduate students also expressed interest in our MBA (Master of Business Administration) in Engineering," Dosdogru added. "The central location of Apeldoorn and the ease of travel to Germany, Belgium and other countries also caught their attention."

Nadervandi highlighted insights into applicants' proactive approach to preparing for studies abroad, often accompanied by supportive families.  

Reflecting on the experience, both Dosdogru and Nadervandi noted the rewarding encounters with students well-versed in the institution, confirming its reputation as a preferred choice for prospective students. 

WUP 22/03/2024 
by Erene Roux 
©WUAS Press 


345 words

Connecting with India: Wittenborg Solidifies Partnerships in New Delhi
by Wittenborg News -

Connecting with India: Wittenborg Solidifies Partnerships in New Delhi


Connecting with India Wittenborg Solidifies Partnerships in New Delhi

School’s Representative Michael Sheppard Attends ICEF South Asia and Visits Student Agencies

Wittenborg’s popularity in India has been increasing, reflecting a growing interest among Indian students in studying in Europe, especially in the Netherlands. This is the main takeaway from Recruitment & Sales Representative Michael Sheppard's recent trip to New Delhi, which took place from 6 to 15 February. 

During his stay in the country, Sheppard had the opportunity to attend ICEF South Asia, where he had meetings with approximately 50 agents from India and surrounding countries including Pakistan, Nepal and Bangladesh. Additionally, he visited several agency offices in New Delhi, prioritising Wittenborg’s most effective and strongest partnerships. 

According to the representative, the outcome of the trip was very positive. “While I didn’t visit any schools this time, I met some students at the agencies, and they’re very interested in Wittenborg. They have heard of the school, especially from other South Asian students studying at Wittenborg, and they like the idea of it. They particularly appreciate the school’s professional and practical approach to studying business, which provides the theoretical knowledge but also the experience and confidence by immersing them in a real-world scenario”. 

He highlights that Wittenborg has had a strong cohort of students coming from India and its surrounding countries. “We’re getting a very consistent and high-quality stream of students from the region and, due to the market trends, I’m very confident that this will continue and could potentially even increase.” 

This was Sheppard’s second visit to India. He had been there for the first time in 2023, when he attended the inaugural edition of ICEF South Asia. The Wittenborg representative describes India as an amazing country, adding that New Delhi is a massive, energetic and lively city, with a lot going on. “The country is going through an impressive economic growth and developing at a very fast rate. I was also lucky enough on this trip to have some leisure time outside of New Delhi, and one thing to highlight about India is that it’s one of the most beautiful countries in the world. You’ve got landscapes like the tropical beaches in the South, the deserts in Rajasthan and the Himalayas; it’s an incredibly diverse geography. The geography is as diverse as the people.”

WUP 21/03/2024 
by Ulisses Sawczuk 
©WUAS Press 

402 words

AACSB’s Deans Conference: Wittenborg Gains Valuable Insights into the Industry
by Wittenborg News -

AACSB’s Deans Conference: Wittenborg Gains Valuable Insights into the Industry


AACSB’s Deans Conference Wittenborg Gains Valuable Insights into the Industry

Institution Represented in Barcelona by Head of School of Business Rauf Abdul

To foster meaningful connections, forge new partnerships and keep abreast of the latest industry trends, Wittenborg Head of the School of Business Rauf Abdul attended AACSB’s Deans Conference from 20 to 22 February. 

Held at the Centre Convencions Internacional Barcelona (CCIB) in Barcelona, Spain, the event featured various networking sessions, open discussions, keynote speeches and workshops, among other activities. The themes addressed included the challenges faced by deans, entrepreneurship and innovation, how to build a college brand, digital transformation and the impact of AI on education.  

Abdul highlighted that the events were fruitful and inspiring, having centred on topics that are up to date and relevant to the industry. “The second keynote on ‘Leading a Business School in the Era of AI’ sparked a thought-provoking discussion. Participants reflected on the importance of embracing AI with a people-centric vision. One of the key challenges discussed was how higher education institutions and businesses can create value through generative AI technologies while being mindful of the ethical implications, particularly potential biases in data or algorithms.” 

The Head of the School of Business commented that he actively participated in the discussions held during the events, including the debate conducted during the session ‘The Inclusive Business School’. This activity focused on how schools are overcoming challenges related to inclusion and access.  

AACSB’s Deans Conference: Wittenborg Gains Valuable Insights into the Industry

“Wittenborg is a great example of inclusivity in line with our three key values as well as our mission and vision. It was good to share how we built this at our school and how we are shaping the way for delivering top-quality higher education in a truly international environment.” 

Additionally, Abdul points out that the Q&A session for institutions that are going through the AACSB accreditation process was really insightful. “This was a valuable session to learn and reflect on how we at Wittenborg are progressing on our journey for AACSB accreditation. It reassured us that we are on the right track and doing well to fulfil all requirements.” 

According to him, the overall event was highly beneficial and valuable for Wittenborg, providing opportunities for networking with other academic institutions, sharing best practices and learning about the latest developments in the field of business education. “We have gained valuable insights into the AACSB accreditation process and the expectations of the accreditation committee. This knowledge will be invaluable as we continue to work towards achieving AACSB accreditation for Wittenborg,” he concluded. 


WUP 20/03/2024 
by Ulisses Sawczuk 
©WUAS Press 


439 words

Charting Course for Progress: Insights from Wittenborg's Student & Staff Conference Day
by Wittenborg News -

Charting Course for Progress: Insights from Wittenborg's Student & Staff Conference Day


Charting Course for Progress Insights from Wittenborg's Student & Staff Conference Day

Students & Staff Discuss AI, Examinations, Communication and More 

On 5 March, Wittenborg hosted its annual Student and Staff Conference Day in Apeldoorn and online to encourage discussion and debate among students and staff.  

The day kicked off with separate discussions for staff and students, paving the way for interactive feedback exchanges in the afternoon. During these discussions, moderated – and led – by Wittenborg's Dadi Chen, Fjorentina Muco, Fahad Shakeel, and Vanessa de Oliveira Menezes at various stages, the staff meeting covered a wide range of topics. De Oliveira Menezes commented that the staff engaged in significant conversations, reflecting on the successes of the past year, including new student accommodation and collaboration with Global People.

"After a discussion lasting just over an hour, it was concluded that employees would like to take more courses to improve their skills," De Oliveira Menezes explained further. These courses could be in teaching, AI (Artificial Intelligence), communication, team building and other subjects.

Charting Course for Progress Insights from Wittenborg's Student & Staff Conference Day

Another point of interest to highlight was the necessity for clarity regarding the departments available at Wittenborg and the respective responsibilities of each staff member.

"Employees were also asked to get more involved in guest lectures, as it is important to have more quorum in our lessons. Finally, it was recommended to move the smoking areas so as not to disturb the offices in front of the Brinklaan building."  

It was also suggested to improve routine socialising events, personal development plans, and provide clear guidance on hygiene and recycling at Brinklaan.

De Oliveira Menezes said that hearing colleagues' points of view is essential for understanding different perceptions and expectations about Wittenborg.

"It was interesting to hear that the demands were based on the same issues such as updating and acquiring knowledge and being more involved as a group."

She added that issues such as preventive health checks and lecturers' courses related to research, AI, and higher education teaching skills have already been discussed with the management team and strategies have been or will be applied very soon.

In this case, de Oliveira Menezes feels that Wittenborg is not only promoting staff meetings but is also interested in different opinions and open to making a few changes to improve the institutional environment. 

Charting Course for Progress Insights from Wittenborg's Student & Staff Conference Day

Plenary Feedback

The outcomes of these discussions were further discussed during the Plenary Feedback session.

From the students' point of view, Arvin Gharib, Chairman of the Student Representatives, reported that students expressed satisfaction with lecturers and content but would like to see more transparency in certain areas. Student representative Alexandra Kukhtina further emphasised the importance of a better understanding of AI among staff and students.

Additionally, student representatives suggested reconsidering evaluation types, minimising changes to exam guides, and clearer grading criteria with ample feedback. Students also explained that dual teaching is also widely appreciated and to be encouraged further.

Wittenborg CEO Maggie Feng commented that every year the discussions conducted on the Student and Staff Conference Day provide the school with valuable insights into different topics and areas. In 2023, the central theme of the Plenary Feedback session was mental health and well-being. After making big strides in this space since then, she thanked Wittenborg staff and students for their suggestions and comments.

"This way we can make this lovely institution even greater."

WUP 19/03/2024

by Erene Roux

©WUAS Press

Charting Course for Progress Insights from Wittenborg's Student & Staff Conference Day
Charting Course for Progress Insights from Wittenborg's Student & Staff Conference Day Charting Course for Progress Insights from Wittenborg's Student & Staff Conference Day

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Fun and Games - over 100 Students at Wittenborg’s Bowling Night
by Wittenborg News -

Fun and Games - over 100 Students at Wittenborg’s Bowling Night


Fun and Games - over 100 Students at Wittenborg’s Bowling Night

Event Provides Opportunities for Relaxing and Socialising

For more than 100 Wittenborg students and staff members, the evening of 23 February was an opportunity to have fun, relax and make new friends. Held at Bowlingcentrum Apeldoorn, the school’s Bowling Night featured 10 reserved lanes for the members of the Wittenborg family from 17:00 to 19:00. It also included free drinks and snacks for participants who had registered prior to the event.  

According to External Relations & Events Manager Sophia Faraji, the school is planning other exciting events such as the Karaoke Night in April and the Summer Jam in June. “We encourage all students to participate in these activities because they help with stress relief and promote community building,” she said.  

MBM student Kalu Agwu, specialising in Logistics & Trade, said that he enjoyed the Bowling Night a lot, describing it as competitive and interesting.

Fun and Games - over 100 Students at Wittenborg’s Bowling Night

“I really liked it because it was a break from our daily routine. It was a time to relax and enjoy the company of friends and fellow students, and the environment was also very good. As they say, ‘All work and no play makes Jack a dull boy’, so activities like this promote socialisation, connection and relaxation. I definitely expect Wittenborg to organise more events of this kind.” 

Upinder Kaur, who is pursuing an HBA degree in Tourism Management, said that by taking part in this event she had the chance to meet many new students of different nationalities and talk to them. “I would appreciate more events like this because they are a chance for all the new students and current students to come together and get to know each other. On top of that, I think it is important for the students to have fun but also to take their studies seriously. You have to make sure you have a good work-life balance, and having fun is part of that.” 

WUP 18/03/2024

by Ulisses Sawczuk

©WUAS Press

Fun and Games - over 100 Students at Wittenborg’s Bowling Night Fun and Games - over 100 Students at Wittenborg’s Bowling Night Fun and Games - over 100 Students at Wittenborg’s Bowling Night

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Floral Design and Entrepreneurship: Lessons Learned from Miranda ter Voorde
by Wittenborg News -

Floral Design and Entrepreneurship Lessons Learned from Miranda ter Voorde

Floral Design and Entrepreneurship: Lessons Learned from Miranda ter Voorde


Ter Voorde Shares Insights into her Entrepreneurial Journey During Open Lecture 

In an open lecture, floral entrepreneur Miranda ter Voorde offered students and alumni a glimpse into her journey from florist to successful business owner and entrepreneur.

The lecture, held on 29 February in Apeldoorn, saw attendees eager to learn from ter Voorde's wealth of experience.

Ter Voorde, known for her flower arrangements in Rituals Cosmetics stores, shared anecdotes and emphasised the evolution of her skills and mindset over the years.

"I started as a florist, but in the 24 years that I have my company, I started to be also an entrepreneur," ter Voorde explained. "I'm now more an entrepreneur than a florist. It doesn't mean I don't have the passion anymore, but my skills are so developed in the growth of my company that I love being an entrepreneur." Here, she mentioned her company based in Apeldoorn, Meesterlijk Geschikt, of which she is owner and creative director. Apart from creating flower arrangements for various occasions, ter Voorde and her team at Meesterlijk Geschikt also engage in concept development, event organisation and more. The company has a rich history of organising events, one notable example being the creation of a boat for the coronation of the King of the Netherlands, Willem-Alexander.

Ter Voorde also talked about her book, published in 2010, called 'Celebrations'. In this book, she touches on a world of different festivities (birthdays, bridal showers, Thanksgiving, Christmas, Easter, and more) framed with flowers to show how powerful a floral emotion can be. 

Floral Design and Entrepreneurship Lessons Learned from Miranda ter Voorde

She further detailed how she met Raymond Cloosterman, founder and CEO of Rituals Cosmetics, stating: "He asked me if I want to do something with one of his lines. It was the perfume line with the cherry blossom in it. I thought about an idea to have the cherry blossom integrated into these shops and that's what I did. That was the start of eight years working for Rituals Cosmetics and developing the cherry blossom."

Rituals Cosmetics later wanted to work with more than one supplier. This and the Covid-19 pandemic made her think about how to be less vulnerable as an entrepreneur. After moving the company to a new location in October 2021, she had to find ways to do some cost-cutting and be more profitable.

"As an entrepreneur, you have to be willing to adapt and evolve," ter Voorde advised. "Success is not final, failure is not fatal. It's the courage to continue that counts."

She also says that you always need a plan when you are an entrepreneur.  

"Take time to calculate your costs now and then. This way you can decide what is necessary, what is nice to have, and what I can do without to run my company."

She is now looking at opening a home furniture store and would also like to focus more on various sustainable practices. Apart from that, she believes that it is important to give back to your hometown.  

"I also want to grow as a person. I want my team to be able to manage themselves without relying on my working hours."  

Dr Colin MacKenzie, Associate Professor of Applied Sciences at Wittenborg, who attended ter Voorde's open lecture said that students found the lecture to be inspirational and admired her determination to never give up despite facing various obstacles, such as the pandemic.  

He remarked, "Business is not a straightforward linear journey, sometimes it has its highs and can have many lows. Miranda’s journey illustrated the challenges of growing a business. As a lecturer in Entrepreneurship and Creativity, for me, her talk was a practical example of how to apply creative thinking to the problems posed by outside forces."

MacKenzie highlighted another key takeaway from the lecture, stating, "'To value yourself’ - if you know you have the necessary skills and knowledge to add value, make sure to say 'This is the price'. Too many people undervalue their talent."

He further noted that ter Voorde acknowledged the importance of continuous learning, stating, "She also made a point of taking time out to think about her business and personal vision and aims. This is important; people need to know how to work on the business and not simply work in the business."

Reflecting on the inevitability of mistakes in business, MacKenzie emphasised, "Every business person has, at some point, made some mistakes; however, the ability to learn from them and adapt makes the difference in whether you are going to be successful or not. Ter Voorde highlighted these attributes with practical stories and stoicism, and the students appreciated her explanations." 

WUP 15/03/2024

by Erene Roux

©WUAS Press 


794 words

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