Sofie van Pelt

Background

About Sofie van Pelt

I am a mother, daughter, sister, dancer, singer, lecturer, researcher, guide, enthusiast, vegetarian, cook, runner, walker. so many roles that define me, yet sometimes reduce me to just one aspect of who I am. As a committed lecturer and researcher, I specialize in Empathic French, social inclusion, participation, and diverse-responsive communication. My work bridges the fields of education, social work, and intercultural understanding, with a constant focus on representation, perception, and the many blind spots we all share. As a bilingual facilitator, I work with social workers from all over Belgium, for example, within the framework of the Miriam program of the POD MMI or the trampoline project of the King Baudouin Foundation. As a trainer, I design workshops for social and care professionals who wish to communicate more effectively and empathetically in French. I also facilitate sessions on representation and perception in the development cooperation sector and in education. Additionally, I contribute to research projects exploring innovative practices to better welcome international students and foster inclusive societies. I am active in my neighborhood through the local group Michotte and in my city of Leuven through Divers Leuven (board), and through Mundia, the Leuven Network for Global Organizations. Ten years ago, I co-founded Ne(s)t asbl, an organization that, today under the name Klaprozen, provides a safe environment and holistic care for teenage victims of pimps. My passion lies in creating meaningful connections with people and promoting equal opportunities, diversity, and inclusion in every aspect of my life and work.