As a child, my first “bed” was actually a small suitcase in Africa, where we often visited my grandparents. When I got a bit older, I spent hours looking through binoculars, fascinated by the animals and the world around me. Surrounded by the sounds of nature, I felt completely at home there. My grandfather taught me how to draw elephants (our favorite animal), my very first drawings were simple, but full of love. That’s where my deep connection with Africa, nature, and wildlife truly began.
My grandparents spent most of their lives in different countries in Africa. They were both tropical doctors, and my grandfather specialized in treating leprosy. Besides their work as doctors, they started a non-profit organization called Binga Trees Trust in Zimbabwe to help and educate others. As a child, I often visited my grandparents in Zimbabwe, and now, as a flight attendant for KLM, I request flights to different African countries whenever I can. In Africa, I feel at home.
As a child, I already loved exploring the world and went on adventures with my mother's SLR camera, noticing things that others didn't see. At the age of 12, I participated in a photo contest and won the first prize with a photograph of a row of mushrooms on a train track, with an ant walking on one of the mushrooms. The jury appreciated the ant on the mushroom as a delightful detail and cleverly observed. I'm 36 years old now, and I still view the world with the curiosity of a child.
I studied Photography and Graphic Design at the Minerva Art Academy in Groningen and have worked for various design agencies. Two years ago, I completed the National Geographic Photography Masterclass. Eight years ago, I began flying as a stewardess for KLM Royal Dutch Airlines. This way, I am fortunate to explore much of the world and capture this with my camera.
I am an entrepreneurial, energetic, sincere, open-minded, solution-oriented, and eager-to-learn individual who enjoys diving into matters thoroughly. I easily connect with others through my enthusiastic and open attitude, disarming smile, and authentic way of communicating. I really appreciate no-nonsense and simplicity, and you can see this reflected in my photos and designs.
Last year, I volunteered at Selati Game Reserve, where I gained valuable knowledge about wildlife and the importance of conservation. This experience strengthened my passion for protecting nature and wildlife. Through my photography, I hope to raise awareness and contribute to the preservation of these incredible species. Protecting wildlife and nature is something I care deeply about, and I aim to make a positive impact in any way I can.
Education
Photography Masterclass, National Geographic, Sept 2023 – Dec 2023
Bachelor's in Graphic Design & Photography, Minerva Art Academy, Groningen, Sept 2011 – June 2015
Exchange Program in Graphic Design & Photography, AUT University, Auckland, New Zealand, July 2013 – Dec 2013Exhibitions
“Emotion’Ailes”, Saint- Aubin Cathedral, Namur, Belgium, 2025
“The sands of all seas have a number”, Fülle Galería, Argentina, 2025
“Wendbaarheid” (Agility), BMC Schiphol, 2020
Graduation Exhibition, Minerva Art Academy, 2015
“The Return”, Nicolaikerk, Appingedam, 2013Nominations & Awards
The Greater Kenya Wildlife Photographer September 2025, Shortlisted
The Greater Kenya Wildlife Photographer July 2025, Shortlisted
Emotion'Ailes 2025, Nominated
World Water Day Photo Contest 2025, Semi-finalist
Life Framer: Animal Kingdom 2025, Editor’s Pick
Close-up Photographer of the Year (CUPOTY), Shortlisted 2025
Pangolin Photo Challenge 2025, Shortlisted
Bird Photographer of the Year (BirdPOTY) 2024, Highly Commended
Pangolin Photo Challenge 2024, Shortlisted