Alderman Nicolle Heijltjes introduces herself
Following the departure of Alderman Tim Weijers, the municipality of Kerkrade has welcomed two new aldermen: Raoul Vinken and Nicolle Heijltjes. After their first months in office, they look back on their start and share their ambitions for the future.
The current College of Mayor and Aldermen consists of seven aldermen and Mayor Petra Dassen-Housen. Together they form a strong team committed to a vital and challenging Kerkrade.
"Being visible and being there for the people who need you is important."
Passport
Political party: Burgerbelangen Kerkrade
Born on: November 8, 1981
Lives in: Kerkrade, Rolduckerveld
Portfolio: Spatial Planning, Marketing and Events, Weekly Markets & Fairs and Playgrounds & Playgrounds
Which person would you still like to meet and why?
There are an awful lot of people I would like to meet, but when I look at politics, Hillary Clinton is someone who inspires me. She is an example of perseverance and determination in achieving her goals. I am curious to see how she has put this into practice and how she has combined her various roles.
In addition, I believe that every encounter is valuable. Over the past few months, I have had the opportunity to meet so many different people, and each of them leaves something valuable behind. Those encounters help to gain new perspectives and contribute to the things I do.
What achievement are you most proud of?
The achievement I am most proud of is the fact that I was able to help my children grow up to be the wonderful people they are today. When I was in the military, I never thought my life would turn out this way. I had a very different path in mind. But now when I look at who they are, what they can do and do, I am incredibly proud of that.
In addition, I am proud to be here now. It took fifteen years of hard work to achieve my ambition, and I'm glad that I finally succeeded.
What do the people of Kerkrade not yet know about you?
The people of Kerkrade already know a lot about me, because I always give open and honest answers to questions. But maybe they don't know exactly how I became who I am. Many people know me from the staffing industry, but what preceded that period is less known.
In fact, before entering the staffing industry, I served in the Army for 5-6 years. That time shaped me in terms of standards and values. It taught me discipline, perseverance and the importance of working together. I still take those experiences with me every day in everything I do.
How were the first two months as Alderman?
The first two months as Alderman were incredibly busy. I already had a good idea of the work, because I've been here for 15 years, but I didn't expect it to be so intensive. The days are full of appointments and it takes some getting used to process and remember all that information.
At the same time, it's great to notice that you now have just shorter lines and can really mean something to people. Especially within my portfolio, with marketing and events, it was full steam ahead right away. In the first few weeks I was everywhere. It's all very interesting and I wouldn't miss it for the world!
What can citizens expect from you? What will you stand up for in the coming year?
Residents can expect openness, honesty and accessibility from me. I will not promise things I cannot deliver, because reliability in politics is essential.
In addition, I think it is important for local politics to truly reflect society. Every resident should feel represented by someone on the board. That's why I keep both feet in the clay-literally and figuratively. Whether at the weekly market or at an event, I want to be visible and approachable. People must be able to address me and know that I am there for them. In the coming years I will make a strong case for that.
What drove you to become politically active?
My interest in politics was actually sparked by my father. By nature I am incredibly curious, and I used to see him going through thick packets of paper at home. I would always ask him, "What are you doing? What's that about?" We often had different opinions, and those very discussions lit that fire in me.
As I got older, I noticed that there are many things that could be better, but often no one takes action. You can watch from the sidelines and complain, but if no one does anything, nothing will change. At that point I thought, 'then I'm going to do it myself.' That's how I started as a support group member. I want to know something about everything and believe that you can make the world a little more beautiful if you really make an effort.