Vlamingen in de Wereld: Learn About Living Abroad
Room
Classroom 4
Start time
End time
14:00
14:50
Max. capacity*
30
What we'll talk about
Have you ever dreamed of living abroad but aren’t sure where to start? Join us for an inspiring panel discussion featuring four Vlamingen who’ve lived and worked around the world—and made the journey back home. They’ll share personal stories, practical tips, and honest reflections on the highs and lows of expat life. Even if moving abroad isn’t in your plans, this session offers valuable insights into what it’s like for internationals living here in Leuven. Whether you're curious, planning your own adventure, or simply want to better connect with Leuven’s global community—this conversation is for you.
Your host(s)
Annick Lamin, Rani Vande Bergh, Vincent Schoofs
Moderator: Trees de Wulf
Rani Vande Bergh
Hi, I’m Rani, and I’ve been working with Visit Leuven since 2021.
I’m passionate about travelling and getting to know people from different countries and cultures.
My studies in tourism, along with my time living abroad, have taught me the importance of feeling at home in a city and engaging with locals.
Therefore I am convinced that everybody who works, lives or studies in Leuven plays a crucial role in giving a warm welcome to tourists in our city.
I’m passionate about working with our local partners to create inspiring and unforgettable experiences in Leuven, allowing visitors to discover our city in a truly meaningful and authentic way.
Vincent Schoofs
Belgian-born, with two decades of expat living and working under my belt. Following my A-levels at Stowe School in the UK, I did my Bachelor Modern Languages Chinese & French at London's University of Westminster, with an immersive year abroad at Ocean University in Qingdao. A grant allowed me to return to the Middle Kingdom for an additional year of studies. There was only one choice, the Pearl of the Orient - Shanghai.
One year turned into two decades - with a three year stint in Hong Kong from 2015-2018 - building a career in strategic marketing for some of the world's most desired companies across various industries, applying a unique linguistic, cultural and industry skillset - bridging cultural divides to help establish LVMH's luxury spirit brands in Greater China, growing Huawei's brand identity on the global stage. Now reversed culture shocked back in Belgium, I continue to apply my passion for brand experiences, for example, reimagining the Brussels Auto Salon for its centenary in 2024.
Fluent in four languages, I can order a chai in five more. Or tea. I have a great ice-breaker about that one.
Annick Lamin
After working in New York for 20+ years, I moved back to Belgium (to my hometown of Leuven) in the summer of 2020. Upon my return, I followed a VDAB-course to become an HR Consultant which led me to start my career at Randstad Belgium, where I help connect companies to (international) talents.
When I'm not connecting talented (international) individuals with their dream careers, you'll find me cheering on my two amazing teenage sons on the American football field.
There are no reservations, it's a first come first served event, so be there on time to avoid disappointment!