Voices for change: The power of community engagement

At just 23, Maïté launched the movement 'Balance Ton Bar', which aimed to expose the alarming phenomenon of drug-facilitated sexual assaults. She dedicated herself to amplifying this movement, successfully spreading the initiative to over 50 cities worldwide. Her activism drew significant attention from both the political and media spheres, leading to impactful changes, including the reform of the Sexual Penal Code in Belgium. In recognition of her dedication to victims of violence, Maïté was awarded the Amnesty International Youth Human Rights Prize in April 2022. Maïté is also the founder of Artémise, a non-profit organization focused on supporting the most vulnerable survivors of sexual violence, including both children and adults. Artémise provides a safe space for survivors to speak out, rebuild, and express themselves.

Olivier Dufrasne is co-founder of Act Together & President of the Board of ECOSTERYL. After graduating in Law from the University of Louvain and International Relations from the University of Brussels, Olivier Dufrasne joined the family business, Ecosteryl, in 2007 as the third generation to lead the company. In 2009, Olivier opened Ecosteryl's first overseas office in Canada, where he successfully developed sales and marketing activities across the Americas for seven years. He returned to Ecosteryl’s headquarters in Belgium in 2016 and assumed the role of President of the group. Olivier is also an active member of the board of "Union Wallonie des Entreprises" (now Akt for Wallonia) and serves as the President of the board of AWEX (Wallonia Foreign Trade Agency). He founded ACT TOGETHER with fellow entrepreneurs, a grassroots movement that unites Belgians in pursuing sustainable living, demonstrating that it brings both happiness and environmental benefits. Through initiatives like a car-free October in Brussels, they showcase the transformative power of collective action.

Brecht Gunst has dedicated nearly a decade to the Belgian Foundation against Cancer. He began his journey as a volunteer coordinator for Relay for Life, a major initiative that brings communities together in support of those affected by cancer. In recent years, Brecht has served as the Manager of the Expertise and Services Department, overseeing critical activities in cancer prevention and patient support. Under his leadership, the Foundation has launched influential campaigns like Tournée Minérale and Buddy Deal, demonstrating the profound impact of community engagement

Vinz Kanté is a Belgian artist and ecological activist renowned for radically reinventing his career. He initially gained fame as a DJ and radio host, becoming popular in the 2010s with his dynamic stunts on Fun Radio and NRJ. This success in the music and nightlife scene led him to collaborate with major brands like Samsung, Mercedes, and Brussels Airlines. In 2021, influenced by environmental crises and the COVID-19 pandemic, Kanté transitioned from entertainment to raising public awareness about environmental issues. He founded the media outlet "Limit," using engaging social media content to inform and inspire. His videos, blending entertainment with education, have garnered significant attention on YouTube, where he interviews prominent experts. Today, Vinz Kanté is a leading figure in European ecological activism, advocating for radical change and systemic reform. His documentary "Même pas peur," which explores eco-anxiety as a catalyst for change, has won awards and been broadcast on major channels like RTBF. Kanté’s evolution from pop culture icon to committed activist showcases his innovative approach to combining entertainment, education, and social action to champion the causes he cares deeply about.

Adélaïde Charlier is a renowned climate and social justice activist who has been at the forefront of youth-led movements for change. As a co-founder of Youth For Climate Belgium, she has mobilized thousands of young people and played a pivotal role in climate marches, campaigns, and international conferences. Currently studying Political & Social Sciences, Adélaïde combines her academic knowledge with real-world experiences to deepen her understanding of the complex challenges we face. Her advocacy extends beyond borders, having sailed across the Atlantic Ocean and advised the Vice President of the European Commission on addressing the urgent issues of our generation. Passionate about sports, particularly triathlon, Adélaïde exemplifies discipline and perseverance. Her passion for physical and mental resilience translates into her activism, where she strives to protect the interconnected aspects of our world.