The Team

My name is Barbara. I am from the good year of 1956, born in the Netherlands. I met my husband Kawsu in 1996 in Senegal. We moved to The Gambia and built two guesthouses in local communities named Kairoh Garden. Our focus is to organize programs, meetings and journeys in which it is possible to learn in, and from, other cultures. Next to that I am the secretary of the VSG Verenigde Stichtingen Gambia (Association United Foundations Gambia). In the Mala project I am both a client and a supervisor. Gambia is in a transitioning phase today. Empowerment and entrepreneurship, especially for the youth, is an important subject, because they are the ones who are carrying the future of the country. Making strong and effective connections between vocational education and entrepreneurship would help the youth, and would contribute to the development of themselves, their families and community.

My name is Otto Kroesen. I have been the supervisor in the project from the side of the Delft University of Technology. I am assistant professor in cross-cultural entrepreneurship. My focus is the question how small and medium enterprises can start-up and grow in a different cultural (values) and social (institutions) environment. The project supervision and teaching in cross-cultural entrepreneurship takes place within the framework of the minor program International Entrepreneurship and Development.

My name is Cornelien Smit and I am a part of the Project Mala team! Currently I study International Development Studies at Wageningen University and Research. Besides my study I like to snowboard, do fun things with my friends and cook. During my studies I have learned about sustainable development and the difficulties accompanied with this process. Now it is time to experience the theory in the Gambia! I am looking forward to contribute to the transition towards a more entrepreneurial culture. Besides this I am also looking forward to meet new people and experience a complete new culture. I can't wait!

My name is Sanne Francissen, I'm 20 years old and a third year Architecture student. During our stay in The Gambia, for the minor program international Entrepreneurship and Development, I would like to experience new cultures and the living environment of the Gambian people. I am looking forward to contribute to the development of entrepreneurship in The Gambia with Project Mala!

My name is Pim Schrijvershof, I am a student mechanical engineering and I have a passion for sport, music and people. I want to learn the culture of the Gambian people to get insight on how to support them in the entrepreneurial sector in a way that fits their values and needs. I am looking forward to this internship for the upcoming three months and cannot wait to see where it takes me!