Wednesday afternoon, a Pilates studio in the heart of the city. Marise, 69, always stays a little longer after class to stretch. She slides into a full split with ease - flexibility she’s kept since childhood ballet days. “This is my maintenance service,” she says, jokingly adding that Pilates actually bores her. That’s how we met - her energy captivated me. Just a minute after class, she changed back into a colorful suit, ran her hands through her long silver hair, and rushed off.
I quickly realized she’s always in motion. Marise chairs the supervisory board at the University of Amsterdam, Dutch public broadcaster VPRO, the National Museums Society, Center for Palliative Care for Children, International Theatre Amsterdam, Flamenco Biennale and more. Sometimes, she assists her filmmaker husband; she substitutes as Pilates teacher, supports young artists, works with a foundation fighting sickle cell anemia, and chairs the jury of the Dutch State Prize for the Arts.
Marise works from home, the university office, the ferry, a café, or her bike - always on her headphones while cycling through Amsterdam with a big cargo box in front.
Movement has defined her life. First, ballet and dreams of becoming a professional dancer; she studied law and business studies instead, followed by an impressive global career in international banking when only men held senior positions. At 47, she decided to become a judge, serving until 2016, when the minister of education appointed her at the university.
She finds calm in arts. Several times a week, she attends concerts and performances, keeping up with Amsterdam’s culture scene. A few times a year, she organizes house concerts, welcoming a multicultural mix of family and friends. Sharing is central to Marise’s life: it’s all about making things happen and supporting others, across any background, age or personal drive.
Why did you retire or why are you still working?
Why did you retire?
Why are you still working?
Retirement? It never even crossed my mind. Why slow down? I live fully in the present. I try to get things done now; believe in creating opportunities rather than putting plans on hold. There’s so much to be done. People in distress, people with dreams. And in spite of all the work and at times problems and stress it’s a major source of inspiration and energy. Myengine.What matters most is connecting with others and the impact we can make together. My work is not about personal achievement; it’s about contributing and supporting others to find their own purpose and balance. Liaising, interacting and sharing experiences enriches our lives. And as long as I have the energy and passion, I will continue to embrace the opportunities that come my way. Trying to make things happen.
Life expectancy 2023
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