Alumni testimonial

Alumna Inge Beukema educates the youth and recreational sector in climate adaptation

Inge Beukema: Project Leader for IVN Natuureducatie

“Climate change and climate adaptation are increasingly important topics that I care about. My background in meteorology and hydrology helps me explain why taking action is so important.”

Hi, my name is Inge Beukema and I am a project leader at IVN Natuureducatie (Insitute for Nature Education). After graduating, I began my career as a maritime meteorologist. Due to company merges, I also started forecasting Dutch weather. While I enjoyed my work, I began to feel ready for a change. But what role or career would suit me?

During my studies, I discovered that I enjoyed working with young people. I completed the Education minor and earned my teaching degree. Although I knew I didn’t want to become a full-time teacher, I was certain I wanted to do something in education, which led me to my current role.

At IVN, I lead various projects aimed at reconnecting people with nature and encouraging them to care for their environment. My work mainly focuses on young people and the recreational sector. Climate change and climate adaptation are increasingly important topics that I care about. My background in meteorology and hydrology helps me explain why taking action is so important. For example, recently I discussed the topic climate adaptation with youngsters, supporting their project school project to redesign their schoolyard. While in another project, we guide recreational entrepreneurs in adopting nature-inclusive practices — helping them improve their surroundings and create better nature experiences for their guests.