In November 2024, Henk Jansen joined the WIFS board as its first male member. What drives him to commit to equal opportunities? And how does he view the role of men in this process? We sat down with him to find out.
“I am incredibly proud to be part of the WIFS board and feel deeply motivated. For me, it’s about equal opportunities, not just between men and women, but in the broadest sense of the word.”
Since joining the board, Henk has experienced several special moments, but one in particular stayed with him. “During a board meeting at my home, I became emotional because I had received bad news twice in a short time. The reaction of the women was truly heartwarming.”
Which way of making an impact gives you the most satisfaction within the WIFS board?
“I believe it’s the events. I’ve worked in financial services for many years, but the atmosphere at our events is truly unique. Especially for women in a male-dominated industry, that really makes the difference.”
What is your vision on male allyship? Why is it important that men actively contribute to the WIFS mission?
“I believe the solution lies with us men. We are all sons of our (amazing) mothers. Many of us have a wife, a sister, and/or a daughter. Don’t we also want the very best for them? Let’s show that by treating and paying women equally. And let’s value feminine qualities, which also exist in men, just as much as masculine ones.”