Creating sustainable impact

An interview with Leen Bettens by Katrien Vandenbroeck
☰ 2 min read

"I realised I wanted to drive change from within businesses aligning economic objectives with societal and environmental responsibility."

Leen is 25 years old and currently lives in Antwerp, where she co-houses with two close friends who are also young professionals. After graduating in International Business Management, she  later pursued a Master’s degree in Sustainability Science, Policy and Society at Maastricht University, which she completed in 2023.

She describes herself as enthusiastic, adventurous, and guided by a positive mindset. These traits have shaped both her academic journey and her professional path. Outside her career, she has a strong interest in yoga and mindfulness.

From KdG to KPMG: building a career in sustainability consulting 

I currently work at KPMG within the consultancy sector, as part of the Sustainability Advisory team. I joined KPMG in September 2023 through an internship and transitioned into the role of Sustainability Advisor in September 2024. 

Our team focuses on Environmental, Social, and Governance topics, advising corporate clients, including organisations in sectors such as food and beverages, clothing, finance, both in Belgium and internationally.
I especially value the international aspect collaborating with colleagues from Costa Rica to Switzerland.

My interest in sustainability was sparked during my time at KdG, specifically through the course Building Sustainable Business taught by Eddy Van Hemelrijck. I realised then that I wanted to drive change from within businesses aligning economic objectives with societal and environmental responsibility.

Navigating a changing sector

The sustainability sector is currently undergoing significant transformation. Recently there has been considerable debate surrounding European regulation, especially the EU's Omnibus package launched in 2025 to reduce administrative burdens associated with sustainability reporting for businesses. Beyond regulatory compliance, our team ims to make Environmental, Social, and Governance a value-creating mechanism. The focus is to help businesses integrate sustainability into their long-term strategy. I am proud to work in such a fast-moving and intellectually challenging environment. It requires agility and continuous development, which pushes me to become a better professional every day. 

Reflections on KdG

What stands out are the friendships I built. I'm pleased to say I remain in contact with many of my classmates and we still meet regularly. Studying together created a network of like-minded individuals with a strong sense of connection.

The opportunity to participate in Erasmus was equally defining. I spent six months in Lisbon and it was truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience that expanded my worldview and strengthened my independence.

Values and inspiration

Three core values guide my professional life:

• Respect, regardless of any hierarchy.
• Honesty - I deeply value feedback which is essential for growth.
• Credibility - being acknowledged and trusted as a knowledgable source of information.

I am inspired by influential leaders who combine impact, ethics, and vision.

If I could invite any guests to a dinner party, I would invite Sir David Attenborough for his profound environmental advocacy, a former CEO of Patagonia for the company's pioneering, mission-driven approach, and a Buddhist monk who has written about yoga philosophy.

My message to students and fellow alumni

To current KdG students,I would emphasise the importance of connection. Peer relationships not only make the journey more enjoyable  but also set up a professional network for the future.

Developing a professional mindset early on really helped me. Asking questions, taking ownership and being proactive allows you to shape your own trajectory.

What I would most value from this alumni community is the opportunity to reconnect with more peers and expand my professional network.
I'm also interested in opportunities for mentoring and giving back through keynote talks. Taking the time to create spaces where we can all learn and contribute would make the alumni network truly impactful.