Ank Bijleveld
Exactly two years after the establishment of Twente Board, Ank Bijleveld is taking over the baton from the current chair, Wim Boomkamp. And she is enthusiastic about it, as Twente is in her blood. “What’s great about Twente is the drive to work together and tackle challenges as a team. I see that reflected in Twente Board. As a collaborative organization of government, education, and entrepreneurs, they have made great strides in recent times. I look forward to working together to further elevate Twente.”
Knowledge and experience
The members of the Twente Board are also convinced of this. "Ank Bijleveld is a connecting leader who can also contribute substantively to economic themes," says board member André Pluimers. "She has an extensive network both within and beyond Twente and possesses the stature to truly represent the region. Together with her, we aim to sharpen our focus on our strategy and its long-term outcomes."
Work together
Born in IJsselmuiden, Ank has remained in Twente since completing her studies at the University of Twente. "When I cross the IJssel on my way back from the west, it always feels like coming home. I love that people here greet each other, have casual conversations, and organize all sorts of activities together," she says. "A good example is the "Goorse school- en volksfeesten" in my hometown of Goor, where everyone participates, and the proceeds are used to sponsor local clubs and organizations."
Going the extra mile
Through her work in the house of representatives, she has developed a substantial network in The Hague—a valuable asset for her role as chair of the Twente Board. "There remains a noticeable difference between the eastern and western parts of the country, something that was highlighted once again in the recently published report, 'Every Region Counts.' As an eastern region, you always need to go that extra mile. This means that your strategy has to be even more robust, and you need a clear set of objectives. What do we want to achieve, and what do we need to accomplish this?"
Gross Twente Happiness
The concept of Gross Twente Happiness resonates with her. "It is refreshing to address our socio-economic challenges in this way," she says. "There is a saying that you don't live to work, but work still occupies a large part of your life. Therefore, it's not only important to enjoy your leisure time but also to find satisfaction in your work. When both are in balance, it contributes to the Gross Twente Happiness. That’s something I am eager to work toward."