If your friends/family had to describe you in 3-4 words, what would they say?

Loving, powerful, and independent.

What would you say is your best emotional quality?

I am resilient

What is your occupation and how do you like to spend your free time?

I am the head of Proposal Management at ChargePoint, and I like to spend my free time with friends and family.

What are you most proud of?

I have heard several times that I should write a book about my life. It is a story of resilience, learning, and love. The growth I have experienced is powerful, and I consider it a miracle. I can say I am proud of doing all the above; I moved from my birth country at the age of 25 years old and graduated from TU Delft with a Master of Science title in the year 2000. I have survived a relationship with a narcissist and started my own business. I have raised my daughter by myself, and I can say that the human being she became is my highest achievement!

What is your favourite poem, quote or saying?

Sonnet of Fidelity (Vinícius de Moraes)

Above all, to my love, I’ll be attentive
First and always, with care and so much
That even when facing the greatest enchantment by love be more enchanted my thoughts.

I want to live it through in each vain moment

And in its honor I’ll spread my song
And laugh my laughter and cry my tears When you are sad or when you are content

And thus, when later comes looking for me Who knows, the death, anxiety of the living Who knows, the loneliness, end of all lovers

I’ll be able to say to myself of the love (I had): But be infinite while it lasts.

What advice would you give your 20-year old self looking back?

Trust your intuition. It will guide you through your choices and you will be fine.

When you entered your 40's, what did you find were the most significant or poignant changes?

Life is constantly transforming; from my 40s to now, all these aspects have changed. I got the chance to work in an innovative industry, and I devoted more attention than before to my health and family. As I grow old I have to take more care of my health, not because I am sick but because I want to live long and healthy.

What are your thoughts on aging?

The body changes, and inside, I feel 25 still. If only I could be 25 again and know what I know now. (laughing)

Do you still have a dream or big goal that you would love to accomplish?

Oh my! There is so much I still want to learn. I have to learn for work constantly, and I still have many years to go. On a personal level, I would love to know more about nutrition, gardening, and natural medicine. Also, there are a couple of places I want to travel to.