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
I support people with a multicultural background and/or disability in embracing their identity, so they can unlock their talents and grow in study, work and life.
At the same time, I help organisations embed inclusion sustainably in policy and culture.
Because only when every voice is heard and everyone can participate fully, does real value emerge. For people. For organisations. For society.
I envision a world where people with a multicultural background and/or disability fully embrace who they are and use their unique perspective as a strength. Through that strength, they help build a society in which everyone feels seen, valued and included. Where inclusion is not the exception, but the standard.
Growth begins with self-knowledge - knowing who you are and what drives you. For individuals and organisations alike, understanding your unique identity is the first step towards making aligned choices and unlocking potential.
Sustainable change is built on genuine connection. By listening openly and seeing the world through someone else’s eyes, we foster trust and mutual understanding. That means entering uncomfortable conversations. Because that’s where growth lives.
Insight is only powerful when it leads to action. Sustainable inclusion requires behavioural and cultural change - and the courage to truly do things differently.
