In conversation with... Aniek Pijpelink
1. Why are you a member of OnbegrensdZeeuwsVlaanderen?
As program manager of the Strategic Regional Vision Zeeuws-Vlaanderen, I am committed to realizing the ambitions of our region as agreed in our Regional Vision. One of these ambitions is to create an attractive living environment together for our current and new residents. We also want to grow the number of inhabitants in Zeeuws-Vlaanderen. This growth ambition is not a goal in itself, but we see it as necessary to have sufficient support for our facilities and enough labor capacity. The ambition aligns well with the mission of OnbegrensdZeeuwsVlaanderen. All partners in the network contribute to making living and life in Zeeuws-Vlaanderen even better. I believe that together we can make a difference.
2. What does the OnbegrensdZeeuwsVlaanderen network mean to you?
Within the network, we collaborate across various sectors: business, government, education, and social organizations. The short lines of communication ensure that you quickly get a lot of information about what is happening in the other sectors. I also find it valuable to look at the opportunities and challenges within our region from different perspectives, to share experiences, and to work together on projects.
3. In your opinion, what are the boundless possibilities of Zeeuws-Vlaanderen?
Zeeuws-Vlaanderen offers space—both literally and figuratively. Here you find peace, freedom, and a strong sense of community, combined with a unique location on the border and strong sectors such as the port, industry, tourism, and agriculture. What also makes Zeeuws-Vlaanderen boundless for me is that here we dare and have to think in terms of possibilities: how can something be done, or done better? That attitude, together with customized solutions and cooperation, gives us the opportunity to ensure that Zeeuws-Vlaanderen is a great place to live and enjoy life.
4. How do you see your role and ambition within OnbegrensdZeeuwsVlaanderen?
During meetings, I always provide an update on the developments we are working on within the Regional Vision. Think of the National Program for Vital Regions, Zeeland 2050, or a Regional Deal. I find it important to continually show how these themes are interconnected. Real change is ultimately realized in the projects that the various partners within our network and within Zeeuws-Vlaanderen carry out. I like to hear about these, because they show how the shared vision is put into practice. Every organization involved takes steps from its own perspective and strengths, with our shared vision in mind. I see it as my task to bring these movements together—not by directing, but by making connections, within the region and beyond, by sharing insights and ensuring that we continue to find each other. Because together, we make the difference for Zeeuws-Vlaanderen.
5. What do you consider important for Zeeuws-Vlaanderen?
I think it is important that our residents are proud of Zeeuws-Vlaanderen and show it. There is so much here to appreciate: of course the peace, the space, and the proximity to the major Flemish cities, but also great events and entrepreneurship. Precisely because of our location and our demographic developments, we are often creative in our solutions. We try things here that don’t get off the ground elsewhere. Think, for example, of the cooperation between business and education. We can be proud of that!
At the same time, we also face our challenges. The preservation of facilities is crucial for livability—often it’s about the last facility, and its disappearance has a direct major impact. Accessibility also deserves attention, not only within the region but also across the border. If we really want to take advantage of our location, cross-border accessibility is an important precondition.
6. Why should people come to Zeeuws-Vlaanderen?
Zeeuws-Vlaanderen is a very pleasant place to live. A place where children can play outside safely and where homes are affordable. The facilities are small-scale, so you are truly ‘seen’. Expansive landscapes and the beach are nearby. If you prefer more hustle and bustle, you can easily find it; the Belgian Randstad is just around the corner.
7. What developments are currently taking place in the region?
We are currently taking important steps within the National Program for Vital Regions, Zeeland 2050, and the Regional Deals. An important part of this is strengthening cooperation with the national government. We don’t just want to inform them, but really involve them in our challenges. These programs offer the opportunity to work together with the national government to find solutions that fit our specific situation—customized solutions that do justice to both the strengths and vulnerabilities of Zeeuws-Vlaanderen.
