Originally aspiring to become an academic, halfway through his master’s thesis Maarten found the lonely work of research was not for him. The University of Amsterdam offered the opportunity to make a different contribution, as a fundraiser. He remains genuinely convinced of the power of education and cultural institutions to change the face of society and the lives of the individuals that shape its future. It has given him a deep-rooted inspiration to accompany institutions and charities in their mission to increase their impact by building meaningful, sustainable partnerships with supporters who share their aspirations.