I was born and raised in Amsterdam where I lived with my parents and my older brother. My family was very sports-minded. From our early childhood both my brother and I participated in athletics. I especially enjoyed the training sessions with other athletes and travelling across Europe for competitions. Our family used to spend the summer holidays in Schoorl, a lovely village close to the woods and the sea, where my parents owned a small wooden cottage. Life was simple there and I absolutely loved it.

After high school I went to university where I studied law. Later I enjoyed working at The Royal Netherlands Academy of Arts and Sciences, an organization dedicated to the advancement of science and literature in the Netherlands

I visited Egypt for the first time in 2018 and was touched by the serenity and beauty of the ancient temples and tombs. I love the contrast between the stillness of the desert and the lively water of the Nile. Sailing on the river at sunset is an unforgettable experience. And above all I appreciate the hospitality of the people and the variety of delicious food.

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