All eyes on Aukje

Aukje is an external communications manager at Renewi, a proud mother of two daughters, and someone who truly makes a difference – whether it’s organizing a visit from Queen Máxima, supporting the food bank, or making sure waste is sorted properly at home.

What drives her? Working toward a world where waste is no longer waste. Curious who tells her "Te quiero mucho" at bedtime – and why Trashious is the perfect fit for her? Read here her story. Can you briefly introduce yourself? Married to the love of my life and proud mother of two wonderful daughters, Sofía and Julia. As an external communications manager at recycling company Renewi, I’m passionate about building a world where waste no longer exists.

I’m socially engaged and driven to contribute to a better world. I see myself as a loyal, enthusiastic, and positive connector – with a touch of stubbornness.

Whether it’s organizing a visit from Queen Máxima to Renewi or volunteering for the food bank and other good causes – I always give 100%. Half work is no work. I also deeply value the people around me.

The Trashious payoff is: “Where some see trash, we see opportunities.” How does that resonate with you? At Renewi, we work every day toward a circular future – giving new life to used materials.

When do you feel at your strongest? (Besides opening a jar of pickles without help.) During my Strong Nation workouts: fast squats, lunges, burpees, and powerful core and push-up exercises.

Who or what gives you that kick in the butt when you need it? I rarely need a kick in the butt – more often a brake. The idea that someone’s counting on me – whether it’s a colleague, my daughter, or society – gives me the energy to keep going. I don’t stop until it’s right.

What life choices are you most proud of? I’d rather rephrase the question: what I’m most proud of is my family. Together with my husband and daughters, we form a beautiful blend of Dutch down-to-earthness and Venezuelan warmth. We bridge cultures, challenges, and differences, and create a home full of connection and care – a place where everyone is welcome and respected.

How do you minimize your footprint on the world? (Are you good at finishing leftovers?) Working at a recycling company has taught me how important it is to sort waste at the source. Even my daughters call out their friends when something goes in the wrong bin. I also cycle more often and make conscious choices when it comes to groceries and clothing. And leftovers? We keep those to a minimum at home.

What’s the best advice you’ve ever received or given? You go to the gym to keep your body strong and healthy – but what do you do to take care of your mental health? Working on my mental balance has been the best advice I’ve ever received. It’s made me more resilient, better equipped to handle stress and challenges, and more capable of bringing out the best in myself – both at home and at work. I recommend it to everyone.

What’s the best compliment you’ve ever received? When I put my daughter Julia (4) to bed, she says: “I’m so happy you’re my mama. Te quiero mucho.” 🥰

What’s been the biggest challenge in your life, and how did you deal with it? One of my biggest ongoing challenges is juggling everything. Finding the right balance between being a mother, a wife, an employee, and an individual. Making conscious choices, setting clear boundaries, and the support of my husband help me do that.

Which 3 hashtags describe Trashious for you? #TrashToTreasure #SustainableFashion #EmpoweredWomen  

Wil jij in de spotlight staan en deel uitmaken van All Eyes on You? Deel je verhaal dan hier.