'I go all in on entrepreneurial energy'

Heleen Jonker (27) 2020 Pedagogy graduate started the venture Wildgroei and helps young people take control of their own lives. 

After my studies, doing what made me happy
'After my studies, I started as a coordinator at a BSO. It was a temporary job and fitted perfectly, with my study, qualities, and vision. Then I worked part-time at the Billenboetiek, where we sold sustainable washable diapers. I was hired because of my enthusiasm, and we had a good click. I could do what made me happy: work at a nice company and work on my own company. This was followed by two years in HR at Stoov®, with the mission statement: ‘We warm people, not the planet.’

Now, in 2024, I'm going to start for myself again to help young people connect with themselves and choose a direction that genuinely suits them.'

It's okay to not want to work 40 hours
'At 19, I suffered a burnout. I was living according to the expectations of others. At least, I thought it was their expectations. At the time, I didn't ask myself: What do I like?

During my studies, I found that there were so many other young people struggling with this. That's actually when the idea for the startup Wildgroei was born.

With Wildgroei, we want to help young people find their passion in life. We encourage them to live less from the expectations of society. It's okay if you don't want to work 40 hours. Just do what you love! Take control of your life.'

Working on yourself in nature
Wildgroei organizes training weeks and weekends in nature. Here, you work on yourself, your perception of the world, and your role in it. With the goal that you go home after this week full of energy and inspiration and maybe even a step closer to your mission in life. A backpack full of new insights. That's what we do it for!

During my education in Pedagogy, we went on a PTR camp (person-centered training). I experienced how valuable it is to work intensively with a group on your development. When organizing our Wildgroei training week, I draw inspiration from this part of my studies. 
Nice right?

Do something with your curiosity
‘I am so glad my teachers tipped me off to Start Up Campus Haarlem. They saw that entrepreneurship was my thing. The energy at SUCH was a perfect fit for me. I go all in on entrepreneurial energy. For students also considering entrepreneurship, I would say: “Go do something with your curiosity. Walk into SUCH and see what they can do for you. For me, a world opened up!’

What’s to come
'In 2024, Heleen will start for herself again. With the same mission but in a different form. Paths for students and starters who want to get to know themselves better to organize their lives in a way that suits them. Who are willing to look at themselves and work on questions like: Who am I? Why am I who I am? What can I do? And where do I want to go? In groups or individually, Heleen guides you in this quest.

Curious about Heleen? You can find her on LinkedIn or Instagram.