Interview with Koen van Bezu: Chair of the 2015 AID board
A year on the AID board is a unique opportunity to develop yourself and gain an unforgettable experience. Koen van Bezu knows all about it. It’s been quite some time since he was part of the AID board, but now more than ever, he realises how much it has benefitted him. Ten years after his own AID board year, he is a senior adviser at the organisational consultancy firm TwynstraGudde, where he works in the water sector. He shares how the AID year shaped him and why you, as a student, shouldn’t miss out on this opportunity.
Which AID board were you part of, and what were your tasks?
I was part of the 2015 AID board with the theme “Challenge Accepted.” My responsibilities included acquisition, the opening party, the Sing-a-long, the introductory meeting (meetings with associations), and sustainability. I was also the chairperson, responsible for fostering collaboration within the board.
How did you feel when you first wore a CREW shirt?
It was exciting and overwhelming. Only when I joined did I realise how big the organisation was. I sometimes still get that feeling with new projects: where do I start? The board year taught me to just begin, even if it seems like a lot. In the end, everything falls into place. We just started, and it worked.
What did you enjoy most of your AID?
For me, there was a difference between the AID week itself and the board year. The best moment during the week was the Sing-a-long. After a few hectic days, we sat together as a board, enjoying what we had accomplished. The opening party was also impressive, especially being on stage as a board, but during that evening, I was too focused on the rest of the week to fully enjoy it.
During the year, I especially loved the collaboration and fun at the office. The feeling of organising something big as a small team for a few thousand people was fantastic. We worked incredibly hard, but there was always room for jokes, drinks, team-building, and brainstorming. I remember how we had endless meetings about the opening party and only managed to finalise something concrete in the last weeks. Organising street theatre and securing sponsorship deals were personally challenging, but in hindsight, the best part was the fun we had as a team while accomplishing something significant.
What challenges did you encounter during your board year?
There were plenty of challenges, but none that I couldn’t “accept” – a nod to the theme “Challenge Accepted”! Personally, I learnt to deal with different personalities within the board. We were a team of five and had to figure out each other’s strengths and weaknesses. For me, it was about coming out of my shell when I got stuck. I realised I needed others and that things don’t always have to be perfect, just good enough. That pragmatic approach has stayed with me in my professional life.
We had several conversations with our coach and learnt to break assumptions about each other. For instance, I thought I was perfectionistic but discovered I’m actually quite pragmatic. The board year forces you to have deep conversations about team collaboration, and that stays with you for the rest of your life.
What added value did the the board year give you?
I learnt to collaborate better, distinguish between main and minor issues, and act quickly under pressure. The year also gave me insights into my leadership style. As chairperson, I felt responsible for the team’s well-being, which helped me further develop my social skills.
Additionally, I gained practical skills, like managing an inbox — my inbox is still cleared every week! I also learnt what makes a team work effectively and how to empower people. The board year laid a strong foundation for the skills I later developed in my career. For example, I now understand the importance of listening well and being open to others’ ideas.
I didn’t come out of it as a superhero. But ten years later, I realise that doing a board year, combined with my studies, laid a solid foundation for the work I do now. At the time, I couldn’t articulate those skills and qualities, but years later, they’re evident in my career.
Do you miss anything about the AID?
I mostly miss the collaboration in a small, close-knit team and the fun we had. It was a year of hard work but also a lot of celebration. In professional life, it’s different; it’s less free and spontaneous. I still look back on that time with great joy. The feeling of building and delivering something significant for thousands of people is amazing.
What would you say to those hesitant about joining the board?
Do it! A board year is a unique and valuable experience. You get the chance to learn new things, challenge yourself, and grow as a person. It’s a year where you have a lot of freedom to experiment and make mistakes. Plus, you create an unforgettable experience. If I were studying again, I’d do it again without hesitation. So: “Join the AID board!”