An expert in the field of Rare Hereditary Diseases and Medical Genetics, she developed the Ghent University Centre for Medical Genetics into an internationally renowned institution where more than 200 people are researching hereditary diseases today. In doing so, she not only pioneered scientific research but also translated her findings to her clinical work as an M.D. She is also a pioneer as the first female Rector at Ghent University, a leading Belgian research and teaching institution. Since 2019 she has been actively involved with TAJO as a Board member, supporting disadvantaged children in the greater Ghent-area in Belgium.

“With my background, especially in socio-educational projects, I felt I could add value and a social component to the Foundation’s goals and teams.”

Field of expertise

For the VGP Foundation, Mrs De Paepe represents a specialist in the field of social projects oriented on child’s care and well-being. The partnership between TAJO and the VGP Foundation was arranged by Mrs De Paepe.

Mr Tschimpke has been a member of NABU (Nature And Biodiversity Conservation Union) since 1976, and served four terms as its President since 2003. NABU was founded in 1899 and is the oldest and, with more than 800,000 members and supporters, the largest environmental association in Germany.

Presently, Mr Tschimpke is Chairman of the NABU International Foundation for Nature, founded in 2009 by NABU, whose aim is to protect natural heritage worldwide. The foundations’ international project funding is focused on climate protection and the conservation of biological diversity.

Mr Tschimpke stated:

“There are many foundations that address social issues, and the VGP Foundation will do so, too. But in the field of classical nature conservation, when it comes to protecting landscapes, animal and plant species and preserving biological diversity, there are comparatively few.

“That is why I consider the Foundation's decision very encouraging; it is good that nature conservation is set as an additional topic.”

Field of expertise

Mr Tschimpke’s significant experience and expertise represent a rich source of projects around nature conservation. Mr Tschimpke together with his team enable our participation in many meaningful projects and he brought into the spotlight the snow leopard as a symbol of the foundation.

Mr Van Geet has a close relationship with leading Flemish entrepreneurial families of international business renown, and advises many of these families on business and family-related issues. As such, he also holds some positions in their board of directors.

Classical music is an important factor in his daily life, he organizes concerts at a high level, created his own opera and, at the request of the Flemish government, is also the chairman of the Antwerp Symphony Orchestra.

Although he has a financial and regulatory background, Hugo has a broad interest in nature conservation, European cultural heritage and sustainable agriculture.

"Philanthropy is an obvious way to give something back to the society, but it is necessary to reassure the resources are spent efficiently and actually serve the intended purpose."

Field of expertise

Mr Van Geet brings to the VGP Foundation ideas for new projects, especially on the cultural level, and based on his lifelong experience in the accountancy world, he provides invaluable guidance with its financial matters.

Tereza Van Malderen graduated from the Academy of Art in Prague and spent afterwards more than 20 years engaging in the world of art on many different levels.  “I feel very honoured to have the possibility to become a part of this wonderful project,” stated Tereza Van Malderen. „There is no doubt that the protection of our environment, cultural heritage, and education are truly the pillars of making this world a better place.“

Field of expertise

Mrs Van Malderen’s extensive cultural background and personal experience serve as a valuable contribution to the initiative of the VGP Foundation.

She received the first Culture Award from the Belgian Government and later the Henry Van De Velde lifetime achievement gold award. The l’Université libre de Bruxelles awarded her with the title ‘doctor honoris causa’. In recent years, she moved into new design territories such as tableware, lighting, and furniture.

“What I find particularly fascinating is that the board of VGP Foundation is composed of members with very different backgrounds, active in a variety of fields but still sharing the same concerns and desire to contribute to projects that help to make our world more beautiful. That is nice to see and to be part of it.”

Field of expertise

In her role, Mrs Demeulemeester holds the post of a representative for the projects around the protection of the European cultural heritage, one of the three main focus areas of the VGP Foundation.