All eyes on Mel

In All Eyes on You we share stories of women who inspire us. Strong, unique personalities who express our vision and values with their Trashious bag. This time we put Mel in the spotlight. Mel is 31 years old, graduated in Dutch Law from the University of Tilburg and works as a lawyer at a health insurance company. Mel lives with her boyfriend Erik and 'part-time' dog Charlie in Eindhoven, and loves a nice party every now and then. The Trashious pay-off is: Where some see trash, we see opportunities. How does this apply to you? The Trashious pay-off 'Where some see trash, we see opportunities' fits me perfectly because I am literally known as the trash can in the family - I eat everything! I see a culinary highlight in even the leftovers of the leftovers. In addition, my overflowing wardrobe is full of hidden 'vintage items' that I give a second life over time.

When do you feel strongest? (Other than opening a jar of pickles without help.) Actually, anytime I’ve done something I didn’t think I could do. This goes for everything from very simple daily tasks to large complex projects. But especially when I leave the grocery store without three bags of peanut brittle 😉

How do you motivate yourself on days when you would rather stay under a blanket? On the rare days when I would rather stay under a blanket, I usually motivate myself through my own discipline and the thought of my future 'me'. I know that I will always get energy by 'just' going or doing. And if that is not enough, I can count on a good kick in the butt from my boyfriend or girlfriends to get me moving! And on that one real off-day in the year, you sometimes have to just let everything be, right?!

If your bag could talk, what would it say about you? Stylish on the outside, but trash on the inside. Just like my bag full of messy receipts, lost hair ties and lip balms.

What is the best compliment you have ever received? That I have inspired others. A simple example of this is that I have inspired others to start running.

In which 3 hashtags would you describe Trashious? #TrashToTreasure #HighClassTrash #WasteToWow Do you want to be in the spotlight and be part of All Eyes on You? Share your story here.