Meet one of our members Isabel Van De Voorde

Can you tell us a bit about yourself and your professional background?

I’m a clinical psychologist by training, with a postgraduate degree in marketing and communication. Early in my career, I felt I was “too young” to step into the role of psychotherapist, so I embarked on a long and enriching journey in Human Resources, with a strong focus on well-being at work, engagement, and professional development.

Over time, I saw more and more people struggling with stress, burnout, and disconnection—from themselves, from their teams, and from their environments. The administrative load in HR left little room to truly support these individuals, so I decided to pivot.

I became certified as a coach, then as an agile coach, and gradually my deep connection with nature—something always present—took on new meaning. I studied environmental psychology and became a certified nature reconnection guide. Today, I combine my two passions: I work as a clinical psychologist and coach, offering sessions in nature, and I also provide awareness trainings on how reconnecting with the natural world can boost health, performance, and drive sustainable behavior in companies and communities.

What brought you to Luxembourg, and how did you hear about The Network?

I met my husband in 2016 during a mountain bike event in the Belgian Ardennes— I was a semi-professional cycling athlete at the time! After a few years of long-distance love, I moved to Luxembourg in 2019. Soon after, I began looking for a network where I could connect with like-minded, international, and purpose-driven women—and that’s how I found The Network.

What motivated you to become a member of The Network?

I was looking for a space that wasn’t just about business cards and sales pitches. I wanted to meet women who lead with authenticity, empathy, and a global mindset. At my very first event, I was touched by the warm welcome. I still remember standing a bit awkwardly, and then Monica came over and gently introduced me to someone with shared interests. That act of kindness set the tone. I felt seen, included, and genuinely supported.

How has being part of The Network impacted your professional or personal journey?

In many ways, The Network helped me grow into my role as an entrepreneur. It gave me confidence to speak about my business, to pitch, to participate in panel discussions—skills that are vital but don’t come naturally to everyone. What’s unique about this community is the encouragement that flows so freely. After one of my first pitches, women approached me with ideas, contacts, and offers of support. That energy is priceless when you’re building something from the heart.

Have you participated in any of our events? What stood out for you?

Absolutely. What stands out most is the uplifting energy. We’re all women in business, but we don’t compete—we uplift each other. The events blend skill-building, storytelling, connection, and celebration. I’ve learned, laughed, danced, and grown thanks to the women I’ve met through The Network.

What advice would you give to a new member just joining The Network?

Don’t overthink it—just show up. Let yourself be surprised. This is a space where you can be fully yourself, where your story matters, and where your ideas are welcome. Be curious, open, and generous. The rest flows naturally.

What are you currently working on, and how can other members support or connect with you?

I’m deeply committed to supporting the ecological transition in meaningful, human-centered ways. That includes helping companies rethink how they use resources, how they care for their people, and how they impact the ecosystems around them.

One of the most overlooked “green skills” for the future is nature connectedness. When we reconnect with the living world, we start to think, feel, and act differently. Through experiential trainings and nature-based coaching, I help organizations and individuals rediscover their relationship with nature—not just for sustainability metrics, but for health, creativity, and long-term resilience.

If your company, school, or team is exploring how to align well-being with sustainability, or if you’re simply curious about how nature can support mental health and performance, I’d love to connect.

Is there anything else you’d like to share with the community?

I believe that sustainability is not a burden—it’s an invitation. An invitation to reimagine how we live and work, to reconnect with what really matters, and to create environments where both people and the planet can thrive. And that journey is always better when taken together.