Diversity as a spark: Foundation HMSM

The Foundation HMSM, an initiative originated from our community, wants to give prospective students from outside the EU access to our international bachelor programme by offering scholarships. Currently, the tuition fees for these students are almost three times as high for a European or Dutch student. With the donations of alumni and staff the foundation is already supporting two students to continue their studies.

BY BINIE HERMANS

One of the members of the advisory board of the foundation is Margitte Verkruijsse-Reiner [F 1998]. She feels strongly connected to the mission of the foundation. ‘My motivation for supporting the Foundation HMSM is to provide young talents with the right ambition the chance to access the valuable education I received and to empower the hospitality industry with the talent it needs. To build international relationships you need to be culturally sensitive and have empathy which takes practice and an open mind. During my studies, I practiced that during my internship abroad. With the foundation we can enhance the international classroom at the HMSM and amplify diversity. I get inspired by working together with people from different backgrounds and nationalities. To me, new perspectives drive creativity. By taking down barriers for students from outside the EU, we can offer more diversity.’

Contribute to the hospitality industry

Research from the CPB (Centraal Plan Bureau) shows that a student from outside the EU brings more benefits than costs to our country because they are more likely to continue living in the Netherlands than EU students. Margitte: ‘With supporting non­EU students at HMSM, we have the opportunity to stimulate diversity in the industry and benefit from young talent from all over the world. We can make our industry attractive for a new generation by adding fresh perspectives to our hospitality business.’

Giving back

Margitte: ‘It’s a privilege to be part of the hotel school community. Every one of us has lasting memories of our time on campus. It’s the place where we all set our first steps on different, fulfilling career journeys. Your donation to the Foundation HMSM, provides a meaningful opportunity to give back, directly shaping the future of talented and ambitious students who may be financially disadvantaged.’ With the scholarships provided through the Foundation HMSM, non­EU students can enroll and become part of our global network. Go to the website for more information and donation option. Or send an email to foundationhmsm@zuyd.nl.

Advisory board Foundation HMSM

Suzanne Laszlo [F 1991], Maaike Kalse [F 1995], Vera Dühring, Bas Vogelsangs, Margitte Verkruijsse - Reiner [F 1998] and Binie Hermans. Not in the picture Michiel Bakker [F 1990].