Within HZ, there is a growing group of changemakers: students, alumni, colleagues, and partners who contribute to HZ’s societal missions in an exceptionally entrepreneurial way.

They make a difference by initiating positive actions driven by their passion and collaboration with others. In doing so, they offer creative and sustainable solutions for the broad prosperity of today, the future, in Zeeland, and beyond. However, they often remain insufficiently visible. The New Business Models research group aims to change this with the Changemaker Award.

Positive Impact

HZ Changemakers are students, alumni, staff, and partners of HZ University of Applied Sciences who share one common goal: the drive to make a positive impact in Zeeland and around the world.

The Changemaker project consists of two components: the Changemaker Community and the Changemaker Award.

A Place for Inspiration

The community is the place where changemakers come together to gain inspiration, share ideas, and strengthen one another. Here, you can discover who our changemakers are, what they do, and how they shape societal change—ranging from innovative projects to personal stories.

"Whether you’re a student taking your first steps, an alumnus with a passion for impact, a dedicated staff member, or an investor with a vision, everyone is welcome to join this movement. Together, we build a better future and develop the skills needed to truly make a difference," says Ageeth van Maldegem, Professor of New Business Models.

Join and become part of the HZ Changemaking Community on LinkedIn – your platform for inspiration, growth, and collaboration!

For teachers and staff

HZ offers various tools to help shape lessons around the theme 'Become a Changemaker.' Discover the available materials and support here.

Logo Changemaker

Research group

HZ Centre for Entrepreneurship and Innovation

View research group

'We are looking for changemakers'

Ageeth van Maldegem, lector New Business Models

'We make sure they inspire others'

Barbara Oomen, chairwoman Executive Board

'There are so many great examples in Zeeland'

Elina Boogaard, alumni programme staff member

'We have so many talents'

Kevin van Gorkom, lecturer Social Work

'We need to spotlight students above all'

Irsan Widarto, lecturer Entrepreneurship

'These people make a difference'

Joeri Versluis

'There are a lot of talented people at HZ'

Giusy

'I'm very curious to hear all the stories'

Sarah de Bakker

'We need to put the spotlight on these individuals'

Uday Laiker

'Making a change in complex'

Tanja Moerdijk

'Your time at HZ is a formative one'

Femke IJsseldijk

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