Jip Lenssen

Background

About Jip Lenssen

Growing up in the international capital of peace and justice sparked my interest in the international community early on. After secondary school, I worked in hospitality with Mise en Place, attending international conferences and diplomatic events as a garçon, further inspiring me to join this community. I chose the European Studies programme at The Hague University of Applied Sciences, covering political science to marketing. As part of Enactus, I led a social enterprise combatting food waste by opening a pop-up restaurant that empowered citizens in sustainability efforts. A semester at the University of Malta combined my Mediterranean interests with EU values. I wrote my bachelor's thesis on the EU’s Common Fundamental Values, comparing press freedom in Malta and Slovakia. In Cyprus, I interned with DOREA Educational Institute, analysing European policy and developing training courses, including “Education for Sustainable Development.” After graduating, I pursued a Master’s in European Union and Human Rights Studies at the Catholic University of Murcia. The programme connected me with global peers and expert lecturers. My internship with Social Economy Europe provided insights into social economy and advocacy. My master’s thesis focused on European identity building through Erasmus participation. Currently, as a Project Officer at the European Association of Development Agencies, I contribute to European development initiatives, supporting regional development, promoting sustainability, and fostering collaboration among European regions. My journey is driven by a commitment to European integration and a desire to contribute to the continent's unity.