PWER! meets Diplomacy Gala: Celebrating the Official Launch of Diplomatic Council Mission The Netherlands
Friday,
March 7, 2025 – Wereldmuseum, Rotterdam
At 3:00 PM, the doors of the stunning Wereldmuseum in Rotterdam opened to welcome distinguished guests. The event commenced with a welcoming reception in the elegant salon hall, where attendees were greeted with a photo opportunity and a welcome drink. At 3:45 PM, the official program began in the magnificent ballroom, introduced by Dianne Biemolt-Boeve. Seated at beautifully set round tables, guests were treated to an engaging, informative, and inspiring program featuring distinguished speakers.
Among the esteemed attendees were several ambassadors, including Ms. Rekha Gunasekera from the Embassy of Sri Lanka, Ambassador of Guinea-Conakry Mr. Mory Camara, Economic Advisor of the Embassy of Panama Mr. Milciades Castillo, and Honorary Consul of Sri Lanka in the Netherlands Mr. Bernard Menken. Diplomatic Council was well represented by Secretary-General Ms. Hang Nguyen, Global Chairman Mr. Andreas Dripke, Chairman of the Global Security Forum Mr. Jochen Richter, and Business Consul Ms. Claude Piel, among others.
The first speaker, Mr. Edward van Beek, gave an insightful presentation on the origins and mission of Stichting PWER.ME.
Mr. Rob Heijtink took the audience on a journey through time, illustrating the strong connection between PWER! and the Diplomatic Council, which dates back to 2013. Following this, Secretary-General Ms. Hang Nguyen provided an in-depth overview of the Diplomatic Council’s initiatives, highlighting its three key pillars: a global think tank, an international business network, and a charitable foundation. Numerous members had traveled from afar to attend this grand event in Rotterdam. Ms. Nguyen elaborated on how the Diplomatic Council closely collaborates with the United Nations and the significant benefits this brings to its members.
The highlight of the event followed with the official launch of Diplomatic Council Mission The Netherlands. The ceremonial signing of the symbolic treaty by Ms. Nguyen, Mr. Dripke, Mr. Van Beek, and Mr. Heijtink marked the official establishment of the mission.
This, however, was not the only surprise of the day. PWER! proudly presented the inaugural edition of PWER! Magazine. The cover of the first edition was officially unveiled to the audience, followed by a celebratory toast. PWER! Magazine serves as a platform for members to showcase their achievements, highlight impactful PWER! projects, feature charitable initiatives, conduct interviews with influential figures, and provide insights into the Diplomatic Council and its members.
Distributed both nationally and internationally, the magazine is strategically positioned to reach the right audience. It offers a unique opportunity for brands to establish a strong presence and connect with a valuable network.
Following the magazine presentation, guests enjoyed refreshments in the salon hall, where 13 selected articles from the magazine were beautifully displayed on easels, resembling a true art exhibition.
At 5:00 PM, the second segment of the program commenced. Guests were welcomed back with a mesmerizing ballet performance by one of the daughters of Edward van Beek, who has been training at the highest level in the Netherlands for years.
The speakers’ program resumed with a presentation by Ambassador Ms. Rekha Gunasekera of Sri Lanka. She provided a compelling overview of Sri Lanka’s historical ties with the Netherlands and offered valuable insights into the country’s current investment and tourism opportunities.
Next, Mr. Niels van Dijk from PWER.exchange captivated the audience with an engaging presentation on the PWER! platform used for project financing. His informative slides offered a clear understanding of the platform’s impact and capabilities.
Mr. Jochen Richter, Chairman of the Diplomatic Council and co-author of Europe and the Emerging New Global Order, delivered an insightful presentation, guiding attendees through the book’s key themes. Rotterdam was selected as the prestigious location for the Dutch book presentation.
The choice of the Wereldmuseum as the event’s venue was no coincidence. Guests were invited to explore the museum through a guided tour, offering a deeper appreciation of the cultural treasures housed within. A visit to the Wereldmuseum is highly recommended for anyone exploring Rotterdam.
Upon returning to the ballroom, attendees were treated to another breathtaking ballet performance—this time featuring both daughters of Edward van Beek, accompanied by live music from a violinist and pianist.
At 7:00 PM, guests indulged in a lavish buffet featuring an exquisite selection of dishes catering to all tastes. The dining experience was enhanced by soothing live classical music, creating an ambiance of refined elegance.
Before the final segment of the event began, attendees were once again enchanted by a spectacular ballet performance, set to live classical music.
One of the most moving moments of the evening came from photographer Marijn Fidder, who recently received the First Prize Zilveren Camera ‘International Documentary Photography’ award for her series Left Behind. Through her powerful imagery from Uganda, she provided an emotional and thought-provoking presentation, leaving many attendees deeply moved.
In recognition of her impactful work, PWER! extended an invitation to Marijn to collaborate over the next year, ensuring her project receives the attention it deserves at various PWER! events.
The final speaker of the day, Mr. Sheahan Arasaratnam from Sri Lanka, captivated the audience with his inspiring story. As the founder of Tropical Green Export (TGE), Sheahan produces cocofibers and cocopeat, driven by a mission to create positive change. With remarkable passion, he detailed the journey of establishing his factory and his commitment to making a meaningful local impact.
He also elaborated on the collaboration between TGE and PWER!, outlining their shared vision for sustainability. Their upcoming joint project aims to modernize the factory, improve working conditions, enhance production capacity, decentralize operations, and introduce innovative sustainable machinery. This initiative is set in a vast, underdeveloped region with enormous potential—for TGE, PWER!, the local community, and international businesses alike.
With the support of the Sri Lankan Embassy, PWER! is planning a trade mission to Sri Lanka, details of which will be featured in an upcoming edition of PWER! Magazine.
Dianne Biemolt-Boeve elegantly closed the evening, receiving well-deserved applause for her outstanding presentation. PWER! and Diplomatic Council Mission The Netherlands extend their deepest gratitude to all attendees. Your presence was essential in making this gala an outstanding succes.
As a PWER! member, you gain access to an exclusive international network, invitations to prestigious events, multiple editions of our magazine per year, and the opportunity to contribute to impactful projects. Additionally, members of PWER! can leverage the vast Diplomatic Council (DC) network.
Interested in joining the Diplomatic Council? Membership is by invitation only, requiring a trusted and sustained relationship with our organization. If you or your company would like to be considered for membership, please contact us for further information.
The Diplomatic Council (DC) bridges the gap between diplomacy and enterprise, offering unparalleled access to global connections and resources. By engaging with the DC, you unlock a platform designed to help individuals and organizations thrive while making a positive impact.
Here’s what the Diplomatic Council offers you:
Expand Your Horizons with the Diplomatic Council
Are you an entrepreneur, thought leader, or visionary looking to connect with global changemakers? Do you believe in combining business with purpose to create a better future? This gala is your opportunity to become part of a prestigious network of like-minded individuals.
By attending the official launch of the Diplomatic Council Mission Netherlands, you’ll gain:
Join us in celebrating the start of this transformative mission and position yourself at the forefront of innovation, diplomacy, and growth.
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