Board 2025-2026
Laura Evenepoel
VoorzitterHey everyone, My name is Laura. Proudly I can announce myself as a marine biologist. You are probably wondering why I decided to study for six more years. While I loved being a marine biologist, I was still missing something in my work field. I saw how we as humans influence these beautiful creatures and, as a biologist, I could not do anything about it. That is why I made this big decision! I am currently a third year bachelor Veterinary medicine student. I have some experience doing research about marine wildlife and I can not wait to learn more about the veterinary side of it all. I joined VSDW in order to spread some marine love into the world! I’m looking forward to meeting you all and remember the following words, when the workload of this study seem to be too much, EVERYTHING WILL BE FINE!
Lisa Lardenoije
Vice-voorzitterHi everyone! I’m Lisa, a second-year master’s student in veterinary medicine, specializing in horses, and this year I’m thrilled to be VSDW’s vice president. My love for wildlife started on an unforgettable trip to Africa, and since then I’ve been hooked on everything wild and wonderful in the animal kingdom. I joined VSDW to dive into the world of wildlife alongside a bunch of enthusiastic students—because let’s face it, wildlife veterinary medicine doesn’t get nearly enough spotlight in our curriculum! After serving as PR-extern in previous years, I’m excited to mix my networking skills with some hands-on leadership this year. Can’t wait to see what VSDW can accomplish this academic year—let’s make it wild!
Eline Dolmans
PenningmeesterHi everyone! My name is Eline, I am currently in my second master. For as long as I can remember I have had a special interest in wildlife. From a trip to the zoo to a breathtaking documentary, I always wanted to experience everything from the front row. My first hands-on experience with wildlife I obtained by volunteering in a rescue center and assisting the veterinarians working there. This has brought me into contact with a huge variety of species, ranging from native wildlife to exotics. Besides, I spent a lot of my free time in a bird shelter, again as a volunteer. Participating in the Sukulu’s Wildlife Capture Experience took my passion for wildlife to another level and shifted my perspective on the future drastically. I am now determined to turn my dream into my profession. Completing the online Veterinary Zoo & Wildlife course of Archaeopteryx feels like a step in the right direction. After a successful first year as treasurer of VSDW I decided to contribute for another year. The VSDW has given me the opportunity to connect with people who share the same interest and to learn from experts working in the field. On top of that I have recognized a lot of personal growth over the past year by developing new skills. Attending our events will give you insight information about wildlife conservation, one health and so much more! So, see you there?
Lyann Wessel
PR-internHi, I’m Lyann, a second year master vet student and at this moment PR-intern at VSDW. I started my studies with an immediate focus on wildlife, and now, on my second year in VSDW, that passion has only grown. My interest lies in a wide variety of species, big and small, and especially in rehabilitation and reintegration of animals back into the wild. With VSDW I learn more and more daily about the importance and intricacies of the connection between human and animal on this earth, and how to fulfill my roll in this to the fullest. I’m very excited to see what else we can learn together!
Ruben Hesters
PR-internHi everyone, my name is Ruben, and I am a first-year master's student. This year, I joined VSDW as a PR intern. The main reason I wanted to be part of this organization is my interest in exotic animals. I believe these animals deserve more attention and specialized care, as they are becoming increasingly common as pets. Although the courses we take during the academic year are highly informative and engaging, I feel there is always more to discover, especially about the less familiar species that many people are now adopting as pets. Reptiles and amphibians, for example, as well as exotic birds or rodents like sugar gliders are fascinating creatures that often face complex veterinary challenges. However, they are frequently misunderstood or poorly cared for by their owners, mainly due to a lack of knowledge. As part of VSDW, I hope I can contribute to changing this problem. We should inspire both pet owners and aspiring veterinarians to learn more about these amazing animals. It’s important to raise awareness about their specific needs and proper care, ensuring they lead healthy lives and receive the attention they deserve. I'm eager to use this opportunity to help bridge the gap between veterinary science and public understanding, and I look forward to contributing to the growth and impact of VSDW in this field.
Noortje Van Bever
PR-internHi everyone, my name is Noortje and I’m currently in my second master year. Ever since I was little I’ve been fascinated by wildlife, especially wild mammals, and that’s why I’m really excited to join VSDW this year as a PR intern. This past summer I had the chance to shadow several veterinarians in South Africa and gain hands-on experience with different species, an opportunity that truly strengthened my passion for conservation, rewilding, and rehabilitation. I’m eager to further explore topics such as the factors contributing to species endangerment, the impact of human imprinting on wild animals and the potential transmission of diseases to domestic animals. What truly drives me is discovering the role we as veterinarians can play in supporting these wild animals in their development and survival. I can’t wait to organize inspiring lectures this year, bring the world of wildlife closer to everyone, and continue growing my knowledge and experience along the way.
Maeve Eykholt
PR-externHi I’m Maeve Eykholt, this year i am PR-extern together with Elza. I’m currently in my first master and am thrilled to be part of this amazing team. VSDW, for me, fills a gap that our schoolbooks can’t fully cover. We are able to learn from colleagues, vets and interested parties about topics that I’m passionate about like wildlife (both close to home and further away), one health, conservation and veterinary sciences in third world countries. I am excited to learn more about these topics, make new contacts in these fields and to eventually be able to share this knowledge with my fellow students. I look forward to seeing you at our events!
Elza Harmina Janssen
PR-externHi there, my name is Elza and I'm a second-year master student. However, like Laura, I'm also a marine biologist and I have previously worked with dolphins and whales in Scandinavia and Portugal. During these experiences I started realising that I wasn't quite cut out for the work of a scientist as I was missing the daily hands-on experience with animals. This is where the veterinary study comes into play, because I've always wanted to become a vet since I was little. However, I don't want to throw my previous education and knowledge away. By joining VSDW I hope to help spread the word about wildlife, ecosystems and conservation, meanwhile learning about the medical side of it all. I can’t wait to learn more about veterinary wildlife and development together with all of you!
Ophelia Santens
Social media managerHi there! I'm Ophelia, currently in my first master's year and passionate about wildlife. Since I was young, I've always admired wildlife veterinarians, and discovering VSDW in my first year was a dream come true. Given the current challenges facing our planet, I'm eager to learn more, educate others about wildlife and conservation, and connect with people in this field to make a positive impact together. I also love to travel and hope to one day combine my work with exploring different parts of the world. This is my third year as VSDW’s social media manager, and I’m excited to continue this adventure with all of you!
Quinten Stappaerts
Social media managerHi, I’m Quinten, a first-year master's student with a lifelong passion for wildlife. Since I was a child, I've been fascinated by the creatures in my garden and beyond. My curiosity for learning about animals and sharing that knowledge with others has only grown stronger over the years. This drive led me to join the VSDW, where I look forward to working with fellow members to promote awareness and contribute to the preservation of the amazing world of wildlife.
