In conversation with... Ronald de Back

Why OnbegrensdZeeuwsVlaanderen?

In 2010, I was approached by the predecessor of OnbegrensdZeeuwsVlaanderen, Uw nieuwe toekomst, with the question of whether the Werkservicepunt Zeeuws-Vlaanderen wanted to participate in the Emigration Fair in Houten. This was to give visitors and interested parties an overview of the opportunities on the Zeeuws-Vlaanderen, but certainly also the Flemish labor market. For the Flemish part, we did this in close cooperation with Vegho, an organization for and by port-related companies in Ghent. One thing led to another and I was asked to join the advisory group, of which I am still a member with great pleasure, because I think it is important to contribute to the challenges facing Zeeuws-Vlaanderen.
 

What does the OnbegrensdZeeuwsVlaanderen network mean to you?

The strength of the network lies in the connection between entrepreneurs, education, and government, and, if necessary, jointly tackling problems/challenges in the various working groups.
 

Limitless possibilities of Zeeuws-Vlaanderen?

The possibilities of Zeeuws-Vlaanderen are actually inexhaustible. It is an almost undiscovered, interesting region. Recent and future exciting developments such as North Sea Port, the opening of the North Sea locks, and the energy transition will put Zeeuws-Vlaanderen even more on the map.
 

How do you see your role and ambition within OnbegrensdZeeuwsVlaanderen?

Thinking and discussing together with the partners about how we can maintain the livability in Zeeuws-Vlaanderen and, where possible, provide new impulses. In addition, of course, ensuring the connection with the Expat Center Zeeland, the Grensinformatiepunt Scheldemond, and the Werkservicepunt Zeeuws-Vlaanderen as support for the operation of OnbegrensdZeeuwsVlaanderen.
 

What do you find important for Zeeuws-Vlaanderen?

The most important thing to me is that we preserve the typical identity of Zeeuws-Vlaanderen, as well as the facilities and livability.
 

Why should people come to Zeeuws-Vlaanderen?

The peace, the good 'culinary' life, but also sufficient employment opportunities and the proximity to Flemish cities such as Bruges, Ghent, and Antwerp.