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Maaike Hoogstede
Head of Community at Impact Hub Berlin // Lead Trainer & Consultant at Explore Your Elements
Professional Background
Maaike Hoogstede is a multifaceted professional with an impressive track record in developing impactful training programs and establishing meaningful connections across diverse sectors. With her unique blend of experiences as a competitive gymnast and a strategic thinker, she stands out in her ability to intertwine body, mind, and breath—not only on the yoga mat but also in her professional endeavors. Currently, she serves as the Head of Community at Impact Hub Berlin, where she channels her passion for innovation and community development to create nurturing environments for entrepreneurs and changemakers, fostering interactions that lead to positive societal shifts.
Before this role, Maaike was a Lead Trainer & Consultant at Explore Your Elements, where she focused on designing learning experiences that prompted critical thinking and personal growth strategies. Her background as a Yoga & Meditation Teacher in various studios and companies throughout Berlin adds depth to her skill set, illustrating her commitment to promoting mindfulness and well-being alongside professional development. Her experiences span numerous industries, showcasing her adaptability and storytelling capabilities, thanks to her former role as a Freelance Writer at Secret Escapes.
Maaike’s journey has also led her to serve as a Business Development Trainee at Door2Door, where she contributed to innovative transportation solutions, revealing her flexibility in navigating and excelling in varied sectors. She has gathered rich experiences in business development across multiple organizations, including notable roles at companies such as Patience.io, Kromkommer, and Muuyu. Each role she has embraced has equipped her with an extensive toolkit to tackle challenges with creativity and strategic insight.
Education and Achievements
Maaike Hoogstede's education lays a strong foundation for her diverse career path. She pursued her Master Electives at The Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania, achieving an impressive average grade of A, focusing on vital subjects such as Entrepreneurship, Finance, Marketing, and Management. This esteemed institution is renowned for its rigorous academic environment, providing her with the knowledge and skills to excel in the business world.
In addition, Maaike expanded her educational horizons through the Erasmus Honours Programme at Erasmus University Rotterdam, participating in a curriculum aimed at developing critical thinking and interdisciplinary approaches to contemporary issues. She also earned her International Bachelor of Arts (IBA) in Finance, Marketing, Strategy, and Management from RSM Erasmus Universiteit, further enriching her understanding of essential business principles.
Maaike's educational experiences and unwavering commitment to excellence have been pivotal in shaping her professional approach, allowing her to integrate innovative concepts with practicality effectively.
Notable Achievements
Not only has Maaike made a substantial imprint in her professional life, but her tenure as a competitive gymnast for the Dutch national team also remains a testament to her dedication and high-level performance skills. Competing at the top level has imbued her with a unique perspective on discipline and excellence, equipping her with insights that translate into her work, especially in her penchant for peak performance in professional initiatives.
Maaike has traveled extensively, exploring various cultures and opportunities across the globe. This exposure has allowed her to appreciate the intricacies of different societies and leverage those insights to enrich her community-building efforts. The beauty she finds in the diversity of our world fuels her creativity and inspires her to make a difference in every engagement she undertakes.
Through her various roles, she has successfully forged connections that bridge gaps between individuals, ideas, and industries, equipping her to foster collaboration and understanding in her community and beyond. Guided by her belief that work should be enjoyable, Maaike cultivates environments where innovative thinking flourishes, and relationships deepen, all while ensuring fulfillment and joy in the journey.
Maaike Hoogstede is a true embodiment of the synergy between professional excellence and personal well-being. Her commitment to making a difference and passion for community building continue to inspire many around her.
