Karen

Drs., Planet Hope

Netherlands

Karen is a highly experienced senior advisor to governments and social organizations who has worked for governments at local, regional and international levels for over 30 years. She has greatly contributed to exchange of knowledge and initiatives between the Netherlands & India. Karen was elected as member of the city council of the municipality of Rotterdam for more than 10 years. She was the leader of a political party and member of special committees Labour & Education, Economics & Urban development, Care & Welfare. She was member of the confidential committee for the selection of the Mayor of Rotterdam municipality of Rotterdam. She described her experiences of being a politician in the Dutch administrative & political system in a book entitled Dual of Duel. With a degree in Public Administration, having studied in Rotterdam and Leiden, Karen believes that the Netherlands and Europe can learn a lot from the innovation and strength that manifests itself in India. Conversely, the Netherlands and other European countries has lots to offer India as well. She also led the implementation of the noted Healthcare and Participation Act at the department of Health and Welfare of the City of the Hague, Netherlands. She is also the founder of the non-profit Planet Hope foundation which initiates educational and empowerment programs and provides vocational education, training, support and scholarship programmes in different communities in India, enabling many young women to dream, learn, travel and explore, building their self-confidence and exposure in priceless ways. Karen leads the G100 Wing employment, scholarships & internships.