As the son of a Chinese father and Dutch mother, I grew up with a deep wish to belong: to be independent, live a full life and contribute to society in a meaningful way. My parents knew that life with a disability would come with challenges, but they also trusted my talents and resilience. They gave me the name Kemai, which means to be able to move forward in Chinese. A name that connects me to my roots and reminds me that I can succeed not despite, but because of my disability.

My disability and cultural background shaped the way I see the world. They gave me a broader perspective on people, habits and values. They taught me how to empathise, build bridges and challenge the norm, so that more people can thrive on their own terms. I refined those skills and insights in the field, working at organisations like Microsoft, PwC, L’Oréal and Just Eat Takeaway.com on strategic diversity and inclusion.

Today, with Kemai Coaching, I help individuals with a cultural background and/or disability to embrace who they are and unlock their talents. I also support organisations in embedding inclusion into policy and behaviour. Not as a checkbox, but as a foundation for growth.

Because when everyone can participate without limits, real value emerges. For people. For organisations. For society.

Maarten