Heleen Elferink new chair of the Supervisory Board of Stichting DEN

Course towards the future

“We are pleased with the arrival of Heleen,” says Maaike Verberk, director of the foundation. “Her extensive 'hands-on' knowledge and experience in the process of digital transformation, both for private and public organizations, make her a valuable chair for DEN.” These words from Maaike emphasize DEN's strategic choice to attract a chair who not only has a deep understanding of digital challenges but also brings a broad network.

The future of digital culture, with all its possibilities, is central to the vision of the new chair of the Supervisory Board. With her experience at Rotterdam University of Applied Sciences – where she is well acquainted with the world of future audiences – and in the creative sector, she is enthusiastic about DEN's role.

“I am happy and proud to take on the role of chair,” says Heleen. “I hope that with my knowledge and experience, I can strengthen DEN at a time when digital developments are rapidly succeeding one another. New digital technologies offer many opportunities to imagine our future and enrich the cultural offerings.”

Her expertise also includes important aspects such as a safe digital environment and the pursuit of humane technology in the education of future developers, aligning with DEN's role as a driver of digital transformation. “DEN's offerings inspire and activate the cultural sector,” Heleen continues, “and I look forward to being inspired alongside the other Supervisory Board members.” The Supervisory Board of DEN further consists of Lucien Brouwer, Eric Schrijvers, Norbert Bode, and Ilyaz Nasrullah.

Digital transformation in full swing

Heleen's appointment marks a new phase for DEN. The organization has just started implementing its policy plan for 2025-2028, a great moment for a change in chairmanship. Hermineke van Bockxmeer: “It has been a great pleasure to be involved as chair of the Supervisory Board at DEN during a period when the digital transformation of the cultural sector, partly due to COVID-19 and digital possibilities, has accelerated significantly.”

“The past eight years at DEN have therefore been very inspiring and meaningful. Together, we have helped strengthen the digital power of the cultural sector, which has a future: digitally and culturally enriching. I am proud of the movement initiated in the sector and by DEN. I look back on very pleasant collaboration within the Supervisory Board, with the DEN team, the Ministry of Education, Culture and Science, and all partners in the field.”

Maaike adds: “DEN thanks Hermineke for her years of dedication. Her commitment, her ability to connect people, and the generous way she shared her network have played a crucial role in DEN's development. The impact we are already making as a team and Supervisory Board on the digital cultural sector is thanks in part to her vision and involvement.”