In conversation with... Rianne Vons
Rianne is the managing director of the largest childcare organization in the region: Stichting Kinderopvang Zeeuws-Vlaanderen. Out of a passion for the livability of the region, she has been involved with OnbegrensdZeeuwsVlaanderen since 2022.
Stichting Kinderopvang Zeeuws-Vlaanderen is a social childcare organization where 350 employees and 50 childminders care for 3,500 children every day.
Why OnbegrensdZeeuwsVlaanderen?
OnbegrensdZeeuwsVlaanderen brings together people with a passion for the region. The group consists of a diverse mix, which creates a great combination. In meetings within your own field, you often see the same people and rarely meet those from other sectors. It is precisely the combination of all these fields that broadens perspectives and leads to new strategies and solutions.
What does the OnbegrensdZeeuwsVlaanderen network mean to you?
Together, the entire network takes on a great challenge (the growth of the region) and we look at the region as a whole. Because our knowledge is not limited to one domain, we can switch quickly and operate broadly. This wide input and strong thinking power results in great work.
Everyone within the network wants to improve the region and is fully committed to it. The group ensures you are challenged and get new ideas. As a result, we look beyond our own boundaries.
Unlimited possibilities of Zeeuws-Vlaanderen?
We shouldn't think too much in boxes and should have confidence in the region. Zeeuws-Vlaanderen is a region with many opportunities, and we shouldn't allow ourselves to be limited by physical or mental boundaries. We also need to show the strength that exists here. We know there is a problem or issue, but as a region we are strong and don't wait around: we take action.
How do you see your role and ambition within OnbegrensdZeeuwsVlaanderen?
I'm curious to see how we can get the municipalities even more involved in various fields. I would like to contribute (even) more social knowledge. This way, the complete picture of living, working, and life can become more complete. I'm looking forward to working with the network and committing ourselves to innovations.
What do you think is important for Zeeuws-Vlaanderen?
We in Zeeuws-Vlaanderen could certainly have greater ambitions and put them forward. Our (border) region is different from the Randstad. But that's where the decisions are made. Sometimes we need to bundle the strength of our region more and present it externally, towards The Hague. That's something that's happening more and more here and will remain important for the region in the future. It's good to have clarity within the OnbegrensdZeeuwsVlaanderen network about who we (could) need and where.
Why should people come to Zeeuws-Vlaanderen?
Zeeuws-Vlaanderen is, of course, a fantastic area! Besides being a wonderful place to live, there are many jobs to be found here. There are plenty of opportunities and possibilities within the region, and you can develop yourself at every level. You can also grow as a person here. To the question of whether there is enough to do, I answer with a resounding yes: if you are open to it, there is plenty to do for everyone! Not always right around the corner, but as soon as you look across the (invisible) border, you'll definitely find it! You'll take the region into your heart!
