Moments before defending my Master’s thesis "A Comparative Analysis of Public Policies for the Conciliation of Professional Life and the Care of Young Children Under Three Years Old in France and Sweden" at the Université Libre de Bruxelles, graded with a High Distinction.

Freshly graduated from the Université Libre de Bruxelles (ULB) with a Master’s degree in Political Science, specializing in International Relations, I also completed a one-year exchange program at Stockholm University in Sweden. This international academic experience deepened my understanding of European cooperation and highlighted the valuable opportunities made possible through EU programs.

A proud milestone in my academic journey, captured here as I head to the stage to receive my second Master of Science degree, this time in Public Affairs and Lobbying, from Brunel University in Uxbridge. This achievement reflects my dedication to deepening my expertise in shaping policy and advocacy, equipping me to make a meaningful impact in the public affairs arena.

Meeting Gordon Brown, then Prime Minister of the UK, during the General Election campaign was a memorable highlight of my political experience. As the energetic and dedicated campaign organizer for a Labour MP, I coordinated hundreds of events across the constituency within a single year. These efforts included community canvassing, stakeholder engagement, and targeted voter outreach, which contributed to the MP securing significantly more votes than in the previous election. This role sharpened my skills in grassroots mobilization, strategic communication, and leadership under pressure, all while working closely with high-profile political figures and diverse community groups.

As a highly dynamic organiser during the lead-up to the 2007 UK General Election, I successfully coordinated a high-profile fundraising dinner that attracted significant attention. A highlight was securing a surprise appearance by David Miliband, then UK Labour Foreign Secretary, who personally attended the event. This opportunity to meet and shake hands with such a prominent political figure underscored my ability to engage key stakeholders and deliver impactful events that energized supporters and boosted campaign momentum.

While working with the Ministry of Defense in Belgium, I had the opportunity to conduct in-depth research on Iran’s nuclear development program. This culminated in presenting the findings and strategic conclusions of my research paper to senior defense officials. The experience enhanced my understanding of international security dynamics and reinforced my ability to analyze complex geopolitical issues with precision and clarity.

While running for elections in Brussels, I campaigned alongside Charles Michel, who served as Prime Minister of Belgium from 2014 to 2019 and is now President of the Council of Europe. Despite the highly competitive environment, with many well-known politicians in the constituency, I succeeded in securing a significant number of votes in my first campaign. However, due to relocating, spending the year before in England and the year after in Switzerland, I decided not to continue pursuing an electoral path at that time.

Deeply involved in Belgian politics with the liberal party (MR), I was particularly active in the Young Liberals and the Women’s Liberal branch. During this time, I organized numerous campaign events and initiatives. Pictured here with fellow politicians, we focused on advancing women’s rights in Brussels as part of our shared commitment within the Young Liberals.

I was responsible for managing the office of the Deputy Mayor for Energy, IT, and Finance in the municipality of Molenbeek-Saint-Jean, Brussels. In this role, I coordinated strategic initiatives across these key policy areas, oversaw administrative operations, supported the development and implementation of local sustainability and digital transformation projects, and served as a liaison between the Deputy Mayor, municipal departments, and external stakeholders. The position required strong political insight, organizational leadership, and an ability to navigate complex public governance environments.

Eager to deepen my understanding of the pharmaceutical industry lifecycle, I proactively engaged in lab visits across multiple departments, including research, development, quality assurance, and manufacturing. These immersive experiences allowed me to gain firsthand insight into the scientific, regulatory, and operational complexities that drive innovation in pharma. By connecting with cross-functional teams, I developed a holistic view of how each phase contributes to bringing safe and effective treatments to patients.

While working in the Research and Development department of a major pharmaceutical company in Switzerland, I was responsible for organizing team-building events aimed at strengthening cohesion and collaboration among team members. These initiatives ranged from strategic workshops to social and cultural activities designed to foster trust, inclusion, and shared purpose across diverse, international teams. My efforts were recognized with an Inclusion and Diversity Award, reflecting the tangible impact of my work in creating a more connected and inclusive team environment.

Driven by a constant eagerness to learn and grow, I undertook several rotations and secondments during my time in the private life sciences sector. In this photo, I am pictured during one of those assignments—as part of the organizing committee within the External Affairs team of a global pharmaceutical company. Together with the CEO and General Managers, we had just successfully delivered a high-level panel debate on the topic "Closing the Healthcare Gap in Belgium", a meaningful initiative that brought key stakeholders together to address critical issues in health equity.

During my corporate experience, I have been an important member of leadership teams across various departments, including HR, Legal, IT & Finance, and Research & Development, always ensuring that everything was perfectly organized and ready to roll. These cross-functional roles not only taught me the importance of working with precision, collaboration, and a results-driven mindset to consistently achieve excellence, but they also gave me a deep understanding of the full lifecycle of medication development. Along the way, I had the privilege of learning from some of the most inspiring and experienced leaders in the pharmaceutical industry, which significantly shaped my professional growth.

During my time in the pharmaceutical industry, I had the opportunity to welcome and mentor several high school students during their work experience placements. I was dedicated to helping them navigate the early stages of exploring potential career paths. To support their learning, I organized tours across various departments and walked them through the different stages of the medication development lifecycle. I also introduced them to professionals in diverse roles so they could gain practical insights into the many opportunities available and reflect on where they might see themselves in the future. I strongly believe in the importance of passing on knowledge and experience, helping others grow by sharing what we’ve learned is not only rewarding but essential for building the next generation of professionals.

I also have experience organizing scientific conferences featuring renowned researchers from around the world. My responsibilities included managing contracts, catering, travel logistics, speaker agendas, and venue coordination. These events played a vital role in advancing scientific collaboration, fostering innovation, and ultimately contributing to better patient outcomes.

I’ve volunteered with the Swiss WWF, including participating in clean-up efforts along the shore of the Rhine in Basel to help protect local ecosystems.

In Basel-Land, I have been removing illegal waste deposits from local forests with the Swiss WWF.

I regularly donate blood to the Swiss Red Cross each year to help save lives.

My first experience with volunteering involved caring for abandoned cats at a shelter in Brussels "Le Fanal des Chats", where I helped with feeding, cleaning, and providing affection to animals in need of a second chance.

Because health and helping others in need have always been top priorities for me, I completed first aid training and began volunteering with the Belgian Red Cross. I’ve supported a variety of events, from concerts to sports competitions, by providing on-site medical assistance and helping ensure the safety and well-being of participants and attendees.

As a passionate runner, I often participate in charity runs that raise funds for important causes. Combining sport with purpose allows me to support meaningful initiatives while staying active.