Step Into the Future of Project Leadership This Summer

In life sciences, change is no longer coming, it is already here.

Artificial Intelligence is rapidly transforming the way organisations operate, collaborate and deliver value. For professionals in Project Portfolio Management (PPM) and PMO environments, especially within pharma and biotech, AI is opening the door to smarter decisions, faster execution and more efficient ways of working in even the most regulated settings.

But with so much noise around AI, one question matters most:

How can AI truly support your day-to-day project reality?

From improving portfolio prioritisation and anticipating risks earlier, to accelerating reporting cycles and simplifying operational complexity, the possibilities are immense. Yet turning potential into practical impact requires more than technology alone. It requires meaningful conversations, shared experiences and a community willing to explore together.

That is why the Community of Practitioners in Life Sciences and PwC are bringing together project and portfolio professionals for an inspiring Summer Event dedicated to the future of AI in life sciences project management.

This is not another theoretical conference. It is an interactive, hands-on experience designed for professionals who want practical insight, real peer exchange and fresh inspiration they can immediately apply in their organisations.

Come curious. Leave energised, connected and better equipped to navigate the AI-driven future of project leadership.

What You Can Expect

Capture the AI Flag

Experience PwC’s signature interactive AI game where collaboration, creativity and strategic thinking come together in a dynamic and engaging challenge. Learn by doing and discover AI opportunities in a fun, competitive environment.

Interactive Knowledge Sharing

Gain practical insights from peers and industry experts who are actively exploring how AI can improve project delivery, portfolio governance and operational excellence across life sciences organisations.

Perspective Exchange

Connect with fellow PMO and PPM leaders facing similar challenges in pharma and biotech. Share experiences, exchange ideas and discuss what truly works in practice.

Networking Under the Summer Sky

Build valuable new connections with professionals across the life sciences community while enjoying informal networking drinks and hopefully a bit of sunshine too.

Who Should Attend?

This event is designed for professionals working in:

• Project Management
• Programme Management
• Portfolio Management
• PMO Leadership
• Transformation & Operational Excellence

across pharma, biotech and the broader life sciences ecosystem.

No prior AI expertise is required. Whether you are just beginning to explore AI or already experimenting with it in your organisation, you will find valuable takeaways and inspiring conversations.

To maintain a highly interactive and engaging atmosphere, places are limited.

Join the Conversation. Shape the Future.

The future of project management in life sciences will be defined by those willing to learn, adapt and collaborate.

This Summer Event is your opportunity to step outside the daily routine, challenge perspectives, discover practical AI applications and connect with a community that is shaping what comes next.

We look forward to welcoming you for an afternoon of learning, inspiration and meaningful exchange.

Reserve your place soon and be part of the conversation driving the future of AI in Life Sciences project management.

PM FAIR 2026 – CALL FOR SPEAKERS

From Project Manager to Strategic Leader - Take the Stage.

What if your next talk didn’t just inspire a room, but redefined what it means to be a project leader?

PM Fair 2026 explores the journey from execution to strategy, from delivering projects to shaping vision. And this stage is open to those who live that every day.

Whether you’re a CEO, keynote speaker, experienced project leader, or a fresh voice with a bold perspective - your story matters.

Because the future of project management isn’t just managed. It’s led.

• Share how you moved beyond delivery.
• Challenge how leaders think and act.
• Inspire the next generation of strategic project leaders.

Submissions are now open. Limited speaking slots.

Step forward. Speak up.
Be part of the evolution.

https://pmi-belgium.be/call-for-speakers

Timing:  

• Submission deadline: 7 June 2026
• Review of submissions: 15 June 2026
• PM Fair Belgium 2026: 2 Oct 2026

Call for Speakers Instructions

PM Fair 2026
Where project managers become strategic leaders

In this episode of PM Untold, we dive into the real story behind the making of the PMBOK Guide. Dirk Withake, one of the contributors to the 8th edition, takes us behind the scenes of how the world’s most influential project management standard continues to adapt, mature and stay relevant in a rapidly changing profession.
Far from a simple update, PMBOK 8 reflects years of reflection, debate, field experience and a shared ambition to make project management more human centered, value driven and aligned with the realities practitioners face today. Dirk shares what sparked the need for change, how the global volunteer community shaped the new edition and what principles guided this transformation.

During the conversation, Dirk also highlights three books that have influenced his thinking and leadership approach:

• The Prince by Niccolò Machiavelli
• The Art of War by Sun Tzu
• Extreme Ownership by Jocko Willink

This episode offers a rare look into how the PMBOK evolves and why its future depends on collaboration, diversity of thought and the lived experience of project professionals around the world.

Listen now at pmi-belgium.be/podcast

The project management profession is changing fast. Artificial intelligence, Sustainability, digital transformation, and increasingly complex stakeholder landscapes are reshaping what it means to lead a project. Today's Project Managers, Programme Managers, Portfolio Managers, and decision-makers are no longer simply executors. They are strategic leaders, change drivers, and innovation catalysts. 

PM Fair 2026 is where that conversation comes to life. 

Save the date: Friday, 2nd October at The EGG, Brussels. This is the must-attend project management event of the year, bringing together thought leaders, industry experts, and forward-thinking professionals for a full day of inspiration, insight, and connection. From seasoned executives to ambitious students, PM Fair is designed for everyone who is serious about the future of the profession. 

Register now at www.pmfair.org

Become a Sponsor: Be at the Centre of the PM Community 

Sponsoring PM Fair 2026 means placing your brand at the heart of Belgium's most influential project management community. You will gain direct access to a targeted audience of senior professionals, decision-makers, and rising talent, all gathered with one purpose: The evolving role of the Project Manager advancing the future of project management. 

Key sponsorship benefits include premium brand visibility across all event channels, thought leadership opportunities through workshops and panel discussions, direct lead generation in a high-trust professional environment, and year-round exposure through PMI Belgium Chapter communications. 

Interested in partnering with us? Get in touch 

Call for Speakers: Take the Stage

Do you have a bold idea, a hard-won lesson, or a fresh perspective on project management? We want to hear from you. 

PM Fair 2026 is looking for inspiring speakers on topics including AI in project delivery, sustainability, strategic leadership, agile and hybrid frameworks, portfolio management, and people and culture in complex environments. Speaking at PM Fair is your platform to elevate your personal brand, contribute to the profession, and connect with a highly engaged community. 

Ready to take the stage? Submit your proposal 

Ready? Here Is Your Next Step 

• Attendee? Register now at www.pmfair.org 

• Sponsor? Contact our team at https://pmi-belgium.be/contact

• Speaker? Submit your proposal at https://pmi-belgium.be/call-for-speakers

The future of project management is being written right now. Be part of it. 

Slim Kchaou
Director of Events, PMI Belgium Chapter
events@pmi-belgium.be

In this episode of PM Untold, we explore how artificial Intelligence is transforming the role of project leaders. Christina Sejr Pedersen shares a grounded, human centric perspective on what will change and what will remain timeless. As AI takes over more technical and process driven tasks, the role of the project leader evolves toward what machines cannot imitate: empathy, emotional intelligence, adaptability and the ability to bring people together.  

Christina explains why human uniqueness — our imperfections, intuition and capacity for connection — will become the most essential leadership qualities of the future.  

This conversation is a powerful reminder that in an AI‑driven world, the most essential project management skills are and always have been deeply human.

Want to learn more about Christina's work?⁠⁠⁠ 

⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/christina-sejr-pedersen/⁠ 

⁠https://halfdoubleinstitute.org/ 

Listen now at pmi-belgium.be/podcast

9th of January exam day for me, a nerve-racking day, I forgot how stressful exam days are. But even the tension waiting for the actual result, knowing there is nothing you can change about outcome anymore felt like a blast from the past.  

But the good news came together with relief; I’m PMP certified now.  

After I announced the news, I received a lot of questions on the “how”, how did you do it, and what resources did you use.  

How long did it take, and what kind of questions did you get? 

In this post, I will try to address as many questions as possible and give you my experience of the exam and the journey to the exam.  

I’m not a PMP instructor, I do not say that what worked for me will work for you, but I can share my personal experience and hope you can benefit from those also.  

First, some clarifications on financial investments.  

My PMI membership and exam fees are paid by the company I work for, they see the PMP certification as a must have for all Project managers in the company. They see the PMP certification as a benefit for the company and have the PMP certification as a requirement of being a Project Manager in title.   

When I first started as a PM now 4 years ago my company also paid for an in-person training at Prosource about Project management.  

Also, my company provides me with LinkedIn learning access as part of training towards employees.  

Own investments

I bought PMBOK 7, The agile practical guide and the PMBOK 6 à used versions I found on bookstores and secondhand bargain sites online.  

I bought the next online courses on Udemy, more on that later: 

• "PMP Certification Exam Prep Course 35 PDU Contact Hours/PDU" 

•  "PMP Exam Cram Course - 35-Hour Course Condensed - 12 PDUs" 

I also bought Third3Rock PMP Exam Prep Study Notes 2026 

And read this guide:  

WilliamLiu_Pass PMP on your first try_V1.2 

The journey 

My colleagues triggered me a lot over the past years on “How much did you study?” and “Did you apply for the exam already? “  

But the real wakeup call came from the announcement last October: 𝗣𝗠𝗕𝗢𝗞 𝟴 - 𝗳𝗿𝗲𝘀𝗵 𝗼𝗳𝗳 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗽𝗿𝗲𝘀𝘀 𝘀𝗼𝗼𝗻 𝗮𝘁 𝗣𝗠𝗜 𝗚𝗹𝗼𝗯𝗮𝗹 𝗦𝘂𝗺𝗺𝗶𝘁 𝗣𝗵𝗼𝗲𝗻𝗶𝘅! This implied the PMP exam would change in 2026, and this would mean all the PMBOK course material needed to be re-written. 

So, I applied for my exam, setting the exam date to 9th of January, hoping to use the Christmas and New Years break as a welcome study time.  

I bought “PMP Certification Exam Prep Course 35 PDU Contact Hours/PDU" by Andrew Ramdayal 12.99 Euro already in 2022 but I kept prognosticating because it was a lot, never got further than 15%. 

So, I needed something more effective and I bought the "PMP Exam Cram Course - 35-Hour Course Condensed - 12 PDUs" by Andrew Ramdayal 9.99 Euro in November 2025. 

This course had a better, faster pace and the videos were better to digest in short sessions. I played the course whenever I had an hour spare in the evening - and took notes to have my own overview. I used the course more to keep a learning pace and have a progress bar on my learnings, whenever a topic was not clear to me, I could rewatch or look for other resources how it was presented. 

During the Christmas break I found the LinkedIn practice exams and these really helped me to understand the exam better.  

These practice exams gave me the opportunity to practice on the actual exam time (timing) countdown clock. 

This also highlighted my weak spots = Agile/Scrum part (my company uses waterfall and knowledge of the models mentioned in the PMBOK like Salience Model, Power/Interest Grid, Stakeholder Engagement Assessment Matrix, Tuckman’s Ladder, Situational Leadership, Theory X/Y, Herzberg’s Two-Factor. You don't need details, but you need to know the basics of them. 

Some note examples:  

Exam Day

I chose the online exam – so I booked a meeting room, made sure no one would disturb me and had my PC tested 1 week before the exam. I encourage people to test their PC ahead of time. You will need to use Pearson VUE's OnVUE software and there are a lot of services you need to kill, and you are not allowed to use more than 1 monitor (for a laptop the build in monitor)  

 The start (half an hour before the exam) consisted with entering my ID, checking the cameras, using my phone and smartphone to show the room, remove all unnecessary items, unplug all monitors in the room.  

And then the exam starts 230-minute exam: 180 questions, 2, 10-min breaks. Tip from my side, take the breaks, they help you keep the pace – have a drink or a snack whatever clams you down. But do not forget your glasses (if you need any) I forgot them during my first break and was not allowed to get them till the next break when I started the 2nd session of questions.  

The online system works nice, you can mark questions, when you want to revisit them later, you can highlight and strikethrough parts in the questions and answers. I liked the mark option a lot, at the end of your session you have the option to revise all the questions or only the marked ones.  

I marked the questions I doubted and proceeded to the next questions; this helped me to keep the timing. I had only 5 minutes left in the total exam time. I might have gone faster, but I like to take the time to make sure I understood the questions and gave the best answer possible.  

End of Exam 

I wasn’t sure I would get my result directly after the exam, I did not.  

I got the message “You have completed your exam. Results are typically processes within 5 Business days” à My head almost exploded. But the real tip I can give, check your spam email box and look on your dashboard. I saw a dashboard change on Saturday night (don’t ask why I was checking) and then noticed my certification email went to my spam folder.  

Afterthoughts 

Fix that exam date, don’t postpone, work towards a date. 

Find a study method that works for you and keep track of progress (so you are ready on the exam date) I used mainly the "PMP Exam Cram Course - 35-Hour Course Condensed - 12 PDUs" by Andrew Ramdayal 9.99 Euro 

Use the resources available: online courses, books, question banks – choose the resources that work for you. 

Make sure you have the support of your family members or people you are living with. Special thanks to my wife who needed to endure all my stress and sit apart with a noise cancelation headphone instead of joining her on the bench.  

Belief in yourself, a lot of the questions are common sense. Put yourself in the role of servant leader when answering the questions. 

Don’t forget your glasses during the break.

Tim Gaens
Director of Membership, PMI Belgium Chapter
membership@pmi-belgium.be

Leadership is rarely about the title; it’s about the impact and leaving a place better than you found it. In a volunteer-led community like ours, this requires years of consistent dedication, and for several years, the PMI Belgium Chapter has been lucky to have Edi Venturin and Paolo Alagna leading the way.

As they step down from the Board to focus on personal commitments and projects, they leave behind a Chapter that is stronger and more connected because of their service.

Edi Venturin has been our steady compass, serving with distinction as the Director of Marketing, Communications & IT. He moved the Chapter beyond just "marketing and communication", building a genuine community where every member felt seen. We will miss his thoughtful perspective and his unique ability to lead with both professionalism and a warm, approachable spirit.

Paolo Alagna has been the driving force behind our Professional Development as Director. His passion for helping others grow their careers turned the Chapter into a true launchpad for project managers in Belgium and beyond. We are grateful for his collaborative spirit and his tireless work in ensuring that being a member of PMI Belgium truly meant something.

To Edi and Paolo,
You have balanced the demands of your own careers with the voluntary task of leading this chapter, a journey you drove by pure passion. You have managed the complexities of board meetings, event logistics, and strategic shifts, all while maintaining a smile and a "can-do" attitude.
"The mark of a great leader is not just what they achieve, but how they empower others to continue the work.” Because of your time here, we aren't just a bigger organization; we are a closer, more confident community.

On behalf of the PMI Belgium Chapter members, volunteers, and well-wishers:

Thank you, Edi.

Thank you, Paolo.

You may be stepping off the Board, but your influence is woven into the very fabric of this Chapter, and your legacy will always shine.

Zeba Kazi
Volunteer | Events Communication & Social Media
PMI Belgium Chapter

On 16 March, a new mentoring cycle began at PMI Belgium. 

A new cohort. A new set of conversations. A new set of turning points. 

Because every cohort is different. And every cohort matters. 

A Focused Start 

This cohort begins with: 

• 5 mentoring pairs  

• 2 new mentors  

Smaller - by design. 

This allows us to: 

• stay closer to the experience  

• listen more carefully  

• support more intentionally  

Strengthening the Foundation 

This cohort also marks an important step forward. 

We welcome Geert De Meulder as Mentoring Program Coordinator. 

His role: 

• strengthen program structure  

• support delivery consistency  

• expand presence across Flanders  

This is how sustainable programs grow: Not just through ideas - but through people who carry them forward. 

Expanding Across Regions 

Growth requires balance. 

We are now actively looking for a volunteer to support the program in Wallonia. 

Because access should not depend on geography. And mentoring should reach every part of our community. 

Always Open, Always Evolving

A key shift in our approach: Applications remain open - for both mentors and mentees. 

We are moving toward a continuous model: 

• join when you need it  

• not only when cohorts open  

What Remains Constant 

Even as the structure evolves, the essence does not. 

Mentoring is still about: 

• honest conversations  

• shared experience  

• moving forward with clarity  

Quiet work. Real impact. 

Join the Next Chapter 

Whether you are: 

• ready to mentor  

• exploring your next step  

• looking to contribute  

You are welcome. 

Apply: https://pmi-belgium.be/mentoring 

Interested in volunteering (especially Wallonia)? Let’s connect. 

Maria Rôbè
Associate Director | Mentoring Lead, PMI Belgium Chapter
Maria.Robe@pmi-belgium.be

Project management is not just tools and certifications. 

It is judgment. 
Thought leadership. 
Adaptability. 
Continuous learning in a complex world. 

Today’s project professionals must: 

• navigate uncertainty

• lead diverse teams

• balance stakeholders

• translate strategy into value

Frameworks help. But growth requires more. 

That’s where Professional Development comes in. 

Why Professional Development Exists 

We support project professionals at every stage: 

• early-career exploration

• certification preparation

• senior leadership growth

• long-term capability development

Not only in what they do. But in how they grow: 

As practitioners.
As leaders. 
As mentors.
As contributors to society.

Our 2026 Theme 

Chase the Change. Unleash the Value. 

Change is constant. Waiting is not a strategy.

Chase the Change 
Be proactive. Curious. Ready.
Lead change - don’t react to it.

Unleash the Value 
Projects succeed when they create sustainable impact: for organizations, teams, communities, and society. 

This theme guides every program we design. 

Our Mission 

To empower project professionals in Belgium through inclusive, high-quality learning experiences that strengthen: 

• technical excellence

• leadership capability

• human-centered change

We build competence. 
We build confidence. 
We build belonging. 

Our Vision 

A thriving professional ecosystem where project managers: 

• grow across their careers
• support one another
• translate standards into real-world impact

Across industries. 
Across cultures. 
Across career stages. 

How We Operate 

• Community-driven - practitioners designing for practitioners

• Practice-oriented - real-world insights, not theory alone

• Inclusive & accessible - across languages, regions, and backgrounds

• Collaborative - across chapters, disciplines, and partners

Structured - but not rigid. 
Consistent - but evolving. 

Our Values in Practice 

We operationalize PMI’s values through: 

• lifelong learning

• knowledge sharing

• integrity & reliability

• human-centered leadership

• collaboration over competition

Growth. Trust. Contribution.

What We Offer 

Mentoring Program 
Structured mentor–mentee journeys focused on real growth. 

Speed Mentoring 
Targeted, real-time guidance for specific challenges. 

Webinars & Knowledge Sessions 
Monthly sessions with practitioners from Belgium and globally. 

Study Groups (PMP® / CAPM®) 
Weekly structured peer learning with cross-chapter collaboration. 

Book Club – Critical Thinking & Leadership (coming soon) 
A space to reflect, challenge assumptions, and grow together. 

Sustainability & Social Impact 
Practical integration of ESG and future-focused competencies. 

Knowledge Sharing & Thought Leadership 
Articles, discussions, and conversations shaping the profession. 

What We’re Building Next 

• expanded mentoring formats

• stronger integration across programs

• new Communities of Practice

• deeper focus on sustainability and future skills

• stronger academic and global collaboration

Our goal: 

A connected learning journey, where members move fluidly between learning, practice, mentoring, and contribution. 

Behind the Work 

This work is carried by a team of volunteer practitioners across Belgium. 

Project leaders. 
Change professionals. 
Consultants. 
Researchers. 
Technologists. 

Different paths. 
Different perspectives. 
One shared commitment: 

To give back. To elevate the profession. To build something that lasts. 

This work is led and supported by the Professional Development team, including: 

• Geert De Meulder, Mentoring Program Coordinator (Flanders)

• Sanket Bhatt, Webinar Program Coordinator 

• Annamaria De Sio, Sustainability and Social Impact Program Lead

• Lavinia Draghia, Speed Mentoring Program Coordinator

• Asier Eibar, PMO Awards Lead

• Maria Robe, Associate Director of Professional Development

(and a growing network of volunteers contributing across programs) 

Meet the full team

Get Involved 

Professional Development grows because people choose to contribute. 

If you’re looking to: 

• give back to the profession

• expand your network

• gain leadership experience in a safe, supportive environment

There is a place for you here. 

We are currently looking for volunteers: 

• Mentoring Coordinator (Wallonia) 
  Support the growth of the mentoring program across the region  

https://volunteer.pmi.org/opportunities/65695 

• Webinar Organizer 
  Help design and deliver high-quality learning sessions  

https://volunteer.pmi.org/opportunities/69328 

Study Group Coordinator (PMP® / CAPM®) 
Lead structured peer learning and certification support  

https://volunteer.pmi.org/opportunities/69780 

These roles are ideal for professionals who want to step into leadership, expand their impact, and shape the future of the profession in Belgium. 

The Bottom Line 

Professional Development is not a one-time event. 

It is a shared journey. 

Built together. 
Sustained by curiosity. 
Guided by purpose.

Maria Rôbè
Associate Director | Mentoring Lead, PMI Belgium Chapter
Maria.Robe@pmi-belgium.be

On 19 February, PMI Belgium closed the Autumn 2025 Mentoring Cohort. 

No big announcements. No noise. Because mentoring doesn’t need it. 

It happens in conversations. 
In moments of clarity. 
In the space where someone realizes: “Now I know what to do next.” 

It doesn’t show up on dashboards. But it changes trajectories. 

Why Mentoring Matters 

Mentoring is not about advice. It’s about perspective. 

Helping someone see: 

• their strengths  

• their gaps  

• their direction  

More clearly. And in doing so, it creates something powerful: 

Access. 

• to experience
• to insight
• to growth that would otherwise take years  

The Cohort at a Glance 

• 6 mentors, 9 mentees at launch  

• +1 mentor joined after kickoff  

• 9 mentoring pairs  

• 2 mentors supported multiple mentees  

• 0 re-matches  

• 1 pair continuing beyond the program  

But the real story is not in the numbers. It’s in the experience. 

What Participants Gained 

Three words came up consistently: Clarity. Direction. Confidence. 

Participants reported: 

• clearer career positioning  

• defined development priorities  

• stronger confidence in leadership conversations  

“It was a very pleasant journey.” 
“Structured and actionable guidance helped me focus.” 
“Very well-structured program.” 

The structure supported the journey. 
The people made it meaningful. 

What We Learned 

When mentoring is: 

• intentional  

• thoughtfully matched  

• supported by commitment  

It works. 

Not perfectly.  

But meaningfully. 

Looking Ahead 

This program is not static. It evolves - with every cohort, every conversation, every insight. 

Join the Journey 

Whether you are: 

• ready to give back  

• navigating your next step  

• seeking clarity, confidence, or connection  

There is a place for you here. 

Mentoring should not feel exclusive. 
It should feel accessible, human, and real.

Apply to our Mentoring program.

Maria Rôbè
Associate Director | Mentoring Lead, PMI Belgium Chapter
Maria.Robe@pmi-belgium.be

Tell us a bit about yourself, personally and professionally

I’m originally from the UK and have been living and working in Belgium for many years. My career has been rooted in the pharmaceutical and vaccines industry, where I’ve spent more than 25 years leading complex programs across R&D, clinical development, regulatory affairs, and market access. I’m passionate about patient-focused innovation and about building strong, collaborative teams that deliver meaningful impact.

Alongside my professional work, I’ve always been drawn to roles that allow me to support others, whether through mentoring, teaching, or community-building. That’s ultimately what led me to PMI Belgium and what has kept me engaged as a volunteer for nearly a decade.

Over the years, I have had the privilege of serving in several volunteer roles: Associate Director of Academic & Educational Outreach, VDAB trainer, Mentor, and Content Lead for the PM Fair and PM Summit. Each role offered a different lens through which to support our community, yet all were united by a common theme: creating value for others.

What is your role in PMI Belgium or what volunteer opportunity/opportunities did you already complete?

Since around 2015, I’ve had the privilege of contributing to PMI Belgium in several different capacities, each offering a unique way to support our community.

• Associate Director of Academic & Educational Outreach
  In this role, I worked closely with universities and students to help bridge the gap between academic learning and real-world project management practice. It was incredibly rewarding to see young professionals discover how structured project management could shape their careers.
• PM training content development & VDAB Trainer
  Supporting job seekers through VDAB allowed me to share practical project management skills with people looking to re-enter or reposition themselves in the job market. Their determination and resilience were inspiring, and it reminded me how empowering our discipline can be.
• Mentor
  Mentoring has been one of the most personally meaningful roles. Working one-on-one with professionals navigating their own challenges and ambitions created space for deep, honest conversations. I learned as much from my mentees as they did from me.
• Content Lead for PM Fair / PM Summit
  Curating content for PMI Belgium’s flagship events was a chance to bring people together around ideas that matter. From shaping themes to selecting speakers, it was a collaborative effort that highlighted the strength and diversity of our community.
• Election Committee, Chair
• WiPM Lead
  I am leading the community of practice for Women in Project Management. The community is hugely rewarding through the inspiring colleagues I meet. It’s a chance to share, empower, and learn from each other.

Across all these roles, I’ve met dedicated volunteers, passionate professionals, and inspiring leaders. It’s our volunteers who give their time generously and who make PMI Belgium the vibrant chapter it is.

What motivated you to become a volunteer?

My motivation has always been that we grow together when we invest in one another. Volunteering is value-driven work in its purest form; it’s not about titles or accolades. The reward is helping others. In doing so, I help myself to become more understanding and accepting.

What have you gained from volunteering?

Volunteering has enriched me in ways I didn’t fully anticipate when I first started.

• A sense of purpose through work that aligns with my values
• A broader network of professionals across industries and backgrounds
• New perspectives from collaborating with diverse teams
• Leadership and communication skills strengthened through hands-on experience
• A deep sense of community rooted in shared commitment and generosity

What surprised me most was how energising it is to work in an environment where people contribute purely because they enjoy using their skills to support our Chapter. The PMI Belgium Chapter has always been a welcoming space to form genuine connections. There has always been a sense of belonging.

Why would you recommend others to take on a volunteer role for PMI Belgium?

Volunteering with PMI Belgium offers something rare: the chance to grow professionally while contributing to a community that thrives on shared purpose. It’s an opportunity to stretch your skills, expand your network, and gain experience that complements your career.

Beyond professional benefits, volunteering is hugely rewarding. It’s very satisfying when you have helped run successful and energising events like the Benelux Summit of 2025.

Anything else you’d like to share?

I’m deeply grateful for the many volunteers I’ve worked with over the years. My colleagues brought passion, creativity, and commitment to their roles. PMI Belgium is a community built on generosity, and being part of that has been one of the most rewarding aspects of my professional life.

Volunteering has taught me that giving back is not a detour from one’s career; it is an accelerator. It sharpens skills, builds confidence, and opens doors in unexpected ways. More importantly, it reminds us that leadership is not defined by titles, but by contribution.

As I look back on nearly a decade of involvement with PMI Belgium, I am grateful for every role, every collaboration, and every moment of shared purpose. Volunteering has shaped who I am as a project professional, and I hope my journey encourages others to step forward, get involved, and experience the same sense of fulfilment.

I look forward to continuing to contribute, to learn, and to support the next generation of project professionals who will shape the future of our discipline. Because when we give back to our profession, we don’t just strengthen our community, we strengthen ourselves.

In this episode of PM Untold, Lucila Dotto explores what it truly means to build projects that create lasting, meaningful impact.
With a career at the intersection of sustainability, leadership, psychology, and project‑based transformation, Lucila brings a rare, holistic perspective to the conversation. As Global Head of Sustainability and PMI‑GPM Executive Director, she shares how organisations can strengthen leadership capacity, embed human sustainability into their culture, and empower project managers to lead with purpose.
From misconceptions to emerging global trends, this episode unpacks the mindsets, skills, and frameworks needed to deliver projects that endure.

A powerful reminder that meaningful impact starts with the mindset we bring to every project.

Listen now at pmi-belgium.be/podcast

The PMI Belgium Chapter is entering a new era with the introduction of the Unified Membership Model. This is a membership model we have been discussing intensively for several months, and it enables a simpler and more transparent transition to a single membership payment.

This change naturally brings mixed feelings. On the one hand, PMI Global statistics indicate that we can expect steady growth in our membership. On the other hand, growth also comes with new responsibilities. Nevertheless, the Board looks forward to this evolution with confidence. Growth brings energy, confirms that we are on the right path, and motivates us to continue building for the future.

2026 as our number one priority

With 2026 in mind, we are deliberately looking ahead and choosing a clear focus. For us, 2026 is about being number one.

Number one stands for priority. It does not mean being the biggest or the most complex, but rather knowing what truly comes first. For PMI Belgium, this means an organization driven by people, supported by enough structure to ensure smooth operations, without falling into excessive administration. Structure should support, not suffocate. It should create clarity, not barriers.

As our membership continues to grow, a certain level of organization is inevitable. However, we are making conscious choices. Only what is necessary, as simple as possible. No rules for the sake of rules, and no procedures that take away the fun. We want to continue leaving room for initiative, spontaneity, and engagement.

Quality, experience, and the human side

At the same time, number one also stands for quality. The quality of the experience, the relationships, and the overall atmosphere within our chapter. Despite our growth, the fun aspect remains an absolute priority. Enjoyment, enthusiasm, and the human side are not extras. They are at the core of who we are. People do not join only to participate, but to feel welcome, seen, and connected.

In 2026, we therefore consciously choose to put people first. Growth is important, but never more important than the people behind it. By maintaining a healthy balance between structure and warmth, we aim to grow in a way that is sustainable, enjoyable, and authentic.

Reflections from the New Year’s Reception

This vision was clearly reflected during the PMI Belgium Chapter New Year’s Reception. Once again, the smiling warm-up proved to be an effective icebreaker. The evening combined a reflection on the past year with a look ahead to what 2026 will bring.

All Board Directors shared their priorities and plans for the year ahead. Many members expressed pride in what was achieved in 2025 and are looking forward to the future with great enthusiasm. Coincidentally, or perhaps not, numerology associates 2026 with the number one, symbolizing a new beginning and fresh energy.

Leadership, value, and what comes next

That energy will certainly be felt at the PMI BeNeLux Summit. The theme builds on last year’s edition and aligns closely with a major evolution in our profession. Under the influence of AI, the role of the project manager is shifting increasingly toward strategic leadership. This raises important questions about how organizations perceive this change and what it truly means in practice.

Another key focus for 2026 is value-driven delivery. The PMBOK® Guide - Eighth Edition defines a project as a temporary initiative in a unique context undertaken to create value. This definition moves the focus beyond delivering outputs toward creating meaningful outcomes and lasting benefits for stakeholders.

Working in a value-driven way requires a fundamental shift in mindset. Project success is not defined solely by meeting objectives, but also by how results are experienced by those who use them.

Experience therefore takes center stage. How does a participant feel during an event. What remains after a mentoring program. What impact does a training have, both professionally and personally. And what added value is created through a simple networking activity. These questions matter just as much as planning, budget, and output.

Added value is often found in the details. A warm welcome, clear communication, room for interaction, genuine attention, and a sense of connection. As an organization, we do not want to simply offer activities. We want to deliver experiences that inspire, support, and empower our members.

By consistently placing our members’ needs at the center, we create not only better projects, but also stronger relationships and deeper engagement. In this way, we continue building a chapter where results and impact go hand in hand, guided at every step by the human side of project management.

With smiling greetings,

Anja Vandenbergh, PMP
President, PMI Belgium Chapter

In this new episode of PM Untold, we welcome Dr. Joachim Dehais , enterprise architect and leadership coach, to explore one of the most misunderstood aspects of leadership: politics.

The real skill in leadership is not avoiding politics, but navigating them with authenticity. In this conversation, Joachim explains why the most important decisions are often made in the grey areas, where influence matters more than formal authority and where relationships and trust shape outcomes.

Drawing on more than 15 years of experience, Joachim breaks down how soft skills and nuanced stakeholder management can turn conflict into collaboration. Rather than viewing politics as something negative, he reframes it as a natural part of aligning goals, interests, and people when certainty is scarce.

In this episode, we explore

• Why politics is an unavoidable part of leadership and decision making
• How influence works when authority is limited or absent
• The role of trust and relationships in navigating power dynamics
• How to turn conflict into collaboration through political intelligence
• Why volunteering is one of the best training grounds for developing influence, empathy, and patience

This episode is a must listen for project managers, PMOs, and leaders who want to get things done with impact and integrity, without compromising authenticity.

Listen now at pmi-belgium.be/podcast

In our Certification in Practice series, we highlight how PMI certifications translate into real impact over time, through hands-on delivery, obstacles overcome, and lessons learned.

From certification to a PMO calling

My PMO professional journey began in 2019. By that time, I had already earned my PMP certification and was an active member of a rapidly growing project management community. As a project manager with substantial hands-on experience, I was increasingly focused on the systems, practices, and organizational approaches that enable the effective implementation of projects and programs. One day, colleagues from the PMI Ukraine Chapter told me that a renowned international expert would soon be coming to Kyiv to deliver a workshop they believed was worth attending. I’ve always been someone who says “yes” to opportunities because you never know where they might lead. So, I signed up without hesitation.

That workshop marked my first encounter with Americo Pinto from the PMO Global Alliance, and it was the first time I had the opportunity to learn directly from his lectures. Our cohort included around 40 participants, and I was genuinely surprised to learn that some people had traveled from other countries just to be there. That detail stayed with me and reinforced my sense that the knowledge and professional insights being shared by the expert were truly special.

The program concluded with an exam, which I passed, earning the PMO Certified Practitioner certificate from the PMO Global Alliance. Beyond earning the certificate, I gained practical, experience-based answers to key professional questions. This marked my starting point as a PMO practitioner, and from that moment on, the concept of the Project Management Office fully captured my professional attention.

Applying the learning in day-to-day work

Of course, earning a certification is an important milestone and a great achievement. However, having the opportunity to apply the knowledge in practice right away is even more valuable. I was fortunate to have such a brilliant professional opportunity that allowed me to do so. Right after obtaining my certification, I was appointed to the position of Program Director at the East Europe Foundation, a project-oriented Ukrainian non-profit organization that has been implementing international technical assistance programs aimed at development and innovation.

I stepped into this position with a five-year plan focused on strengthening program staff capacity in line with professional management standards, as well as building a project-oriented organizational culture, processes, and infrastructure. The goal was to shape the entire internal landscape to create the most favorable conditions for high-quality program implementation and ensure strong partner and donor satisfaction. I had a clear vision of the system to be introduced, drawing on my prior hands-on experience in program management roles within the organization and my PMI credentials. Within this framework, I defined the PMO as a core operational component of the overall system.

Designing the PMO concept

Professionals who understand PMO, its nature, and its role know that establishing a PMO is essentially a resource decision. For management to make this decision, they must clearly understand the importance of this step, the role and functions of the PMO, and most importantly, the value the PMO brings in the specific context of the organization, rather than viewing it simply as a new unit. In the case of a non-profit organization, this value-based consideration becomes even more significant.

Inspired by what I learned from Americo, I decided to design the concept of our PMO using the most established approaches. At that time, the PMO Global Alliance provided a tool based on the PMO Value Ring Framework, which supports designing a PMO concept through stakeholder engagement, analysis of their expectations and feedback, and defining a set of PMO functions aligned with the expected value.

The design work was complete, and the PMO concept was ready by early 2020. We were eager to move forward. However, the well-known circumstances of the COVID-19 pandemic changed many of our plans.

When plans changed: COVID, resilience, and maturity

There is a well-known phrase that plans may change, but goals remain firm. This was exactly such a situation. During the COVID period, we leveraged the circumstances to conduct a corporate project management maturity diagnostic and to deliver comprehensive training programs aimed at introducing PMI approaches and professional project management practices across the organization.

Now, looking back, I realize that the outcome is even better than initially expected. These interventions significantly strengthened the project-oriented culture in the organization, which is a critically important precondition for the effective operation of a PMO. The corporate training encouraged employees to pursue professional certifications. Ultimately, the entire PM capacity development effort was translated into greater sustainability and resilience at the organizational level.

In Ukraine, shortly after the COVID restrictions, we faced a full-scale war. This became a moment of dramatic challenge and a true test for the organization’s ability to continue operating despite extreme circumstances. Today, we can confidently say that this test was passed successfully. In 2023, at the PMI Belgium Chapter's PM Fair, I had the opportunity to present the case of the East Europe Foundation, demonstrating how embedding professional project management into the organization’s DNA became a key systemic element of organizational resilience.

Institutionalising the PMO as a Center of Excellence

We returned to the PMO concept in 2024, when the organization underwent significant development of its processes and practices. I also leveraged the time for my professional development by serving as a judging committee member at several competitions, the PMO UA Awards and the PMO Global Awards. This provided a unique opportunity to gain valuable insights and collect best practices related to the design, establishment, and operation of PMOs. Finally, in 2024 the PMO was institutionalized in the organization as a Center of Excellence for project and program management practices.

Our PMO is consultative in nature and often acts as a “laboratory”, consolidating requests from internal stakeholders and clients, and delivering concrete results in response. As of today, these results include the introduction of automated management practices at the project, program, and portfolio levels; a significant increase in the technical competencies of program staff; the development and piloting of an automated program risk management system. Rather than functioning as a traditional organizational unit, the PMO in our organization is a living environment that continuously evolves and adapts to the demands of time and the organizational context.

What makes PMO in non-profits distinctive

Regarding the distinguishing features of a PMO in the non-profit sector, I also received a similar question from practitioner colleagues during a master class I attended in Frankfurt last year. I believe that while a PMO’s day-to-day operations are focused on mastering project management practices to excellence, it must also keep the organization’s mission at the forefront and continuously align these two dimensions.

Moreover, the existence of a PMO in a non-profit organization is a strong indicator of the maturity of the organization’s management system. It sends a clear signal to partners and donors about the high quality of management and, as a logical result, builds trust in the organization as a reliable implementing partner for projects and programs.

That master class in Frankfurt for PMO practitioners was also a unique opportunity to meet Americo Pinto again and personally share this PMO journey, from the inspiration I received from him several years ago to the concrete results of establishing and operating a PMO. I also hope that this story will encourage other non-profit organizations to professionalize their management competencies and work toward greater maturity in this area.

Advice to those aiming to earn the PMI-PMOCP

I would definitely encourage pursuing it. Now, when the PMO Certified Professional (PMI-PMOCP) is part of the PMI certification family, it delivers an even greater systemic impact. Last year, I had an exceptional opportunity to be among the top 100 global experts contributing to the development of the PMI PMO Practice Guide and upgrade my previous certification to the PMI-PMOCP. I can say with confidence that this standard is a synthesis of the best global practices and insights, and it serves as a clear roadmap for practitioners who are considering establishing or evolving a PMO. And if you have a plan or task to set up an effective PMO, just start this professional journey using this global guideline.

The value of a PMO within the management system cannot be overstated. Currently, I serve as Vice President of Programs in the organization and, in practice, perform portfolio management functions. From this portfolio perspective, I can clearly see all the advantages that the PMO brings not only to the project and program level, but also across the organization as a whole. Actually, earning the PMI Portfolio Management Professional (PfMP) certification is my New Year’s resolution for the next step in my professional development, and I am looking forward to new professional insights.

Natalia Slynko, PMP, PMO‑CP
Vice President of Programs, East Europe Foundation (EEF)

As Director of Volunteering, I was truly delighted to see so many of our volunteers during the New Year’s reception. Reconnecting with familiar faces and welcoming new ones reminded me once again how essential our volunteers are to the success and vibrancy of PMI Belgium. Each of you plays a critical role in strengthening our community.

This month, we are delighted to have Lambert Swillens as our Volunteer in the Spotlight. With more than four decades of international experience in consulting and ICT services, Lambert brings a wealth of knowledge, leadership, and human insight to our PMI Belgium community. His long-standing career leading global delivery organizations, combined with his passion for developing people, makes him an inspiring example of the impact experienced professionals can have when they choose to give back.

Lambert’s commitment to mentoring and coaching, having supported over 100 delivery professionals throughout his career, reflects the same spirit of growth and collaboration that we value so deeply within our chapter. Even in retirement, he continues to dedicate himself to training, assessing senior delivery leaders, coaching complex engagements, and recently becoming a certified mediator. His drive to keep contributing and helping others succeed truly embodies the essence of volunteer leadership.

Outside of his professional life, Lambert lives with his wife in a small rural village between Huldenberg and Wavre. With his two adult children having recently left home, he enjoys spending time cycling, exploring wines, and cooking Italian food. Three years ago, he started learning Italian and expects to complete B1 level this May. As an avid traveller, he also enjoys combining business trips with holidays whenever possible.

PMI Belgium is deeply thankful for its volunteers, and today we proudly celebrate Lambert, his experience, his generosity, and the valuable perspective he brings to our chapter.

What is your role in PMI Belgium?

I’ve recently taken on two new volunteer roles that I’m really excited about. The first is mentoring a younger PMI colleague, which gives me the chance to share my experience and hopefully help them grow in their career. The second is acting as the coordinator for the training initiative that PMI Belgium runs together with VDAB. It’s a fantastic program, and I’m really proud to be part of it.

Why did you consider becoming a volunteer?

I chose to volunteer because I’ve always believed in giving back to professional communities that help people grow. Throughout my career, I’ve benefited from mentors, peers, and teams who shaped me, and stepping into a volunteer role felt like a natural way to pay that forward.

I also wanted to expand my network in Belgium, as I spent the past 14 years working mostly internationally, and to engage with people who share a passion for driving positive change through structured delivery and leadership.

What have you gained from volunteering?

What I value most so far is the sense of connection: meeting new people, exchanging ideas, and discovering how diverse experiences lead to richer perspectives. I also enjoy the opportunity to apply my coaching and leadership background in a new context.

The biggest reward for me is when a conversation, a piece of advice, or simply sharing experience helps someone move forward with more clarity or confidence. That’s the kind of impact that motivates me.

Why would you recommend volunteering with PMI Belgium?

Volunteering with PMI Belgium is a great way to broaden your horizon. You meet people from different industries, gain exposure to new ways of working, and contribute to a community that values professionalism and continuous learning.

It’s also a low-threshold environment. People are approachable, supportive, and genuinely interested in helping each other grow.

Based on my own experience, I would certainly recommend other PMI members to take part in the Mentorship initiative, either as a mentee or as a mentor. And for the trainings we deliver together with VDAB, we are still looking for Dutch-speaking trainers.

Anything else you’d like to share?

Even with many years of global experience behind me, I continue to learn from every interaction. PMI Belgium creates a space where those exchanges happen naturally, and I’m grateful to be part of that. I’m looking forward to contributing more as my involvement grows.

Gert Van Hoecke
Director of Volunteering, PMI Belgium Chapter
volunteering@pmi-belgium.be

On Monday 26 January 2026, we welcomed members, volunteers, and partners to our annual New Year’s Reception at the Holiday Inn Brussels Airport. The evening marked a cherished moment to reconnect as a community, reflect on the year behind us, and look ahead to what lies ahead.

The reception brought together project management professionals from a wide range of backgrounds and experience levels. From long-standing members to those new to the chapter, the atmosphere reflected a growing, engaged, and increasingly diverse community.

After a warm welcome, the 2026–2027 Board shared key reflections on 2025 and outlined priorities for the year ahead. Highlights included the chapter’s continued growth, solid financial foundations, and a clear ambition to deliver even more value through events, initiatives, and opportunities for member and volunteer engagement.

Several participants highlighted how encouraging it was to see how far the chapter has evolved in recent years. For many, the evening reinforced a sense of belonging to a professional community that not only values structure and results, but also culture, collaboration, and human connection.

Following the presentations, the evening naturally transitioned into the much-anticipated “jingle & mingle” walking dinner. Conversations flowed easily, new connections were made, and familiar faces reconnected in a relaxed winter setting. Attendees repeatedly described the atmosphere as open, welcoming, and energising, particularly for those discovering the PMI Belgium community for the first time.

The New Year’s Reception once again demonstrated what makes PMI Belgium special: a strong volunteer spirit, a shared commitment to professional excellence, and a genuine willingness to support one another’s growth. It also set a positive tone for 2026, with many participants expressing their enthusiasm to get more involved and contribute to the chapter’s future.

We would like to thank all members, volunteers, and board colleagues who joined us and helped make the evening a success. We look forward to building on this momentum and continuing the journey together throughout the year.

PMI Belgium Team

Article initialement publié sur le site de l'auteur et reproduit ici avec l’accord de celui-ci.

Cela fait maintenant bien deux décennies que nous parlons de big data, data-driven, data-centric, data-informed, etc. Comme si nous n'étions pas entourés de données, noyés. Mais les données sont-elles source de décisions, ou symptômes de leur absence?

Là est le point central de mon argument: l'obnubilation des données va vous empoisonner.

Se baser uniquement sur les données est certes "scientifique" en apparence, mais en pratique souffre d'un éventail de limitations.

La première est que les mesures sont biaisées, et que ce biais est rarement compris. Comme pour les KPIs, il n'est pas donné à n'importe qui de comprendre et de formaliser un problème.

La deuxième est que, par coût de mesure, ce qui est mesurable n'est pas toujours ce qui est utile. Par facilité, nous choisissons des mesures simples mais difficilement pertinentes, voire contre-productives.

Enfin, la troisième est la pire de toutes: l’analysis paralysis, ou paralysie de l’analyse.

C’est cette dernière qui transforme les leaders en suiveurs. Pourquoi, me direz-vous?

Parce que les habitudes qui se prennent sont difficiles à changer. Une fois que nous nous basons sur les données, il est facile de demander plus d’information, sans pour autant augmenter la certitude. Petit à petit, nous réduisons notre tolérance à l’incertain et au risque, pour parfois finir esclaves de l’analyse.

Une fois ce stade atteint, nous ne sommes plus en mesure d’être flexibles et de prendre les risques nécessaires pour être visibles, apprendre, négocier, et donc progresser.

Comptez-vous rester à votre poste pour toute une vie, ou monter en grade? L’étude suivante indique que la prise de risques augmente le risque de licenciement comme celui de promotion.

Être discipliné et consciencieux, le graal de l’administrateur de projet, n’en fait pas un chef, ni un leader.

Alors comment reprendre sa capacité à prendre des risques, et comment le faire de manière raisonnée?

1. Commencez par déléguer davantage, et laissez les autres faire des erreurs.
2. Essayez d’apprendre quelque chose de nouveau et d’imparfait: le combat, la danse, la moto par exemple.
3. Prenez des décisions au hasard, au jet d’une pièce.
4. Quand les données ne disent rien, suivez votre instinct: les résultats intermédiaires vous serviront de données pour vous adapter.

Joachim Dehais, PhD, PMP, TOGAF, CCBA

Source: publication originale sur le site de l'auteur.

First of all, we wish you all a happy New Year. 2026 is a special year, a year marked by the number 1. In numerology, this number symbolizes unity, completeness, and the beginning of something new.

The awareness that we are one community is becoming increasingly clear to each of us. Our motto “for the members, by the members” is regaining its full momentum. Without you, our members, our chapter cannot exist. With the introduction of the Unified Membership Model, launching in February, we are taking an important step toward greater simplicity and cohesion.

Would you like to learn more about this new model and its impact on your membership, both with PMI Global and our chapter? Then be sure to attend our webinar on January 13.

This model is also new for us as chapter leaders. We are approaching its impact with curiosity and thoughtful anticipation. It is clear that we will attract more members. At the same time, we must acknowledge that some members may leave. Navigating this evolution and finding the right balance will be essential. This too reflects the meaning of the number 1, finding balance in times of change.

This year, we are pleased to welcome two new Board Members and two Associate Directors:

• Grégor Nicolas, Vice President
• Saeedeh Ebrahimi Takalloo, Director of Sponsorship
• Maria Rôbè, Associate Director of Professional Development
• Estelle Detrembleur, Associate Director of Finance

Here as well, the Board will need to find the right balance between experienced members and new faces. New ideas must align with established responsibilities. Change is something we all know well. Some embrace it immediately, while others take time to recognize its added value.

At the same time, we extend our heartfelt thanks to the Board members who are stepping down. We are deeply grateful for their years of volunteer service and dedication in building our chapter into what it is today. Special thanks go to:

• Christine Dassy
• Pierre Van der Leemput
• Piotr Zamisnii

Unity and collaboration will also take shape this year through continued cooperation with the Netherlands and Luxembourg chapters in organizing the PMI BeNeLux Summit 2026. A central theme is gradually emerging around AI in project management. How will our role as project managers evolve? What trends will we see in the coming years? And how do we attract the younger generation to the profession? These are questions we will explore together.

We also feel a strong sense of connection through our Communities of Practice. The Life Sciences CoP and the WiPM CoP, both launched last year, will continue to build engaging events, webinars, and content, each with its own annual flagship event.

• In March, the 2nd edition of Women’s Day will be organized (WiPM CoP).
• In November, the 3rd edition of the R&D PPM Day will take place (Life Sciences CoP).

All of this will be presented in more detail during our New Year’s Reception on Monday, January 26, 2026, at the Holiday Inn in Zaventem. Be sure to reserve your spot and discover what our chapter has planned for 2026.

We look forward to writing this new chapter together with you.

With smiling greetings,

Anja Vandenbergh, PMP
President, PMI Belgium Chapter

In this new episode of PM Untold, we sit down with Jan Van Der Vurst, organisational psychologist, leadership consultant, and author, to explore one of the most challenging realities of project management: territorial behaviour and resistance to change.

Drawing on decades of research, consulting experience across five continents, and insights from behavioural economics and psychology, Jan challenges a common misconception. Resistance is not the enemy. It is the default.

Together, we unpack why resistance, territorial behaviour, and lack of trust emerge so naturally in projects, particularly when autonomy, identity, or expertise feels threatened. Rather than fighting resistance, this conversation reframes it as a signal that can be understood, anticipated, and constructively addressed.

In this episode, we explore

• Why resistance should be anticipated, not fought
• The three core sources of resistance: “I don’t understand,” “I don’t trust it,” and “I don’t trust you”
• How emotional reactions block rational arguments and what to do instead
• Practical techniques to turn resistance into ownership and cooperation
• Why territorial behaviour is instinctual, especially in expert driven environments
• A real life example of how vulnerability and reflection transformed conflict into collaboration

This episode is a must listen for project managers, change leaders, and PMOs who want to move beyond arm wrestling with stakeholders and learn how to build trust, alliances, and sustainable change.

Listen now at pmi-belgium.be/podcast

As we step into 2026, we reflect on the achievements of 2025, which were only possible thanks to the dedication and passion of our volunteers. They are the driving force behind our vibrant community, helping us elevate both individual knowledge and collective competency in project management. We deeply appreciate their time, energy, and commitment, and through this series, we aim to recognise their contributions and inspire others to join.

For this edition, we are delighted to introduce Saeedeh Ebrahimi Takalloo, who brings a rich and multifaceted background to our chapter. Originally from Iran, she studied and worked in Vancouver, Canada for nearly a decade before moving to Belgium in 2021 to join imec. Professionally, she combines engineering and multidisciplinary scientific research with a current pursuit of an Executive MBA at Solvay Brussels School, preparing for more strategic and business oriented roles.

Beyond her career, Saeedeh is an accomplished artist in classical Persian arts, including calligraphy and manuscript illumination, disciplines that reflect her values of patience, harmony, and excellence. Her diverse experiences across cultures and fields shape her approach to challenges and collaboration, making her a true asset to our community.

What is your role in PMI Belgium?

I have been serving as the Webinar Organization Lead within the Professional Development team since September 2024. This role has been a fantastic experience, giving me the opportunity to engage with experts across different industries and geographies who are willing to generously share their knowledge and insights with fellow professionals. What I find particularly rewarding is creating opportunities and facilitating meaningful connections between those willing to share their expertise and those eager to learn and grow in their careers.

Recently, I was honored to be elected as the Director of Sponsorship for the PMI Belgium Chapter. I am excited to take on this new role and contribute at a higher strategic level to the chapter’s mission. In this capacity, I will focus on building and nurturing relationships with organizations and industry partners to create mutually beneficial collaborations. My goal is to enhance the value we deliver to our members while strengthening the chapter’s visibility and impact within the broader project management community in Belgium and beyond.

Why did you consider becoming a volunteer?

I was inspired by our project management professor, Antonio Nieto-Rodriguez, during the Modern Project Management course in my EMBA at Solvay Brussels School of Echomics and Management. He emphasized how volunteers who take on responsibilities in a professional capacity bring a unique spirit to their work. Their intrinsic motivation and natural alignment with project goals often make their contributions more impactful.

His words resonated with my own past volunteer experiences, where my commitment was driven purely by purpose rather than compensation. This reflection motivated me to join the PMI Belgium Chapter volunteer team and eventually take on a permanent role there.

What have you gained from volunteering?

This volunteer experience has been valuable to me on several levels. It has enabled me to connect with project management professionals both locally and internationally and to strengthen my leadership and communication skills through working with people from different professional cultures and backgrounds. I have also found it rewarding to contribute to the chapter by supporting quality learning opportunities for our members.

What I did not initially anticipate was how much I would value the collaborative aspect of volunteering. The supportive atmosphere within the Professional Development team and the productive collaboration with the Marketing team have been highlights of this experience. Working across different functions has shown me how diverse perspectives and skills complement each other, and the shared commitment among volunteers has been genuinely motivating.

Why would you recommend volunteering with PMI Belgium?

I highly recommend volunteering with PMI Belgium for reasons that go beyond simply expanding your professional network. Two stand out: the transformative experience of committing to work driven by purpose rather than compensation, and the opportunity to collaborate professionally with people across diverse industries and sectors.

When you volunteer, you contribute your time and energy from genuine interest rather than for a paycheck. This shift in motivation creates an environment where authentic growth flourishes. Without the transactional nature of paid employment, you approach tasks and challenges with a different mindset, creating space to explore capabilities and strengths that are not always exercised in traditional work settings.

PMI Belgium offers volunteer work within a professional setup, where you collaborate with professionals from various industries and sectors, each bringing different mindsets, approaches, and work cultures. This cross industry exposure broadens your perspective and helps you understand how project management adapts across different business contexts.

By combining these experiences, you develop valuable leadership and communication skills, expand your professional network, and gain competencies that translate directly to your career, all while contributing to the growth of the project management professionals’ community in Belgium.

Anything else you’d like to share?

I want to take a moment to thank the PMI Belgium team and my fellow volunteers. Since joining, I have been genuinely moved by the dedication, generosity, and collaborative spirit of everyone involved. It is rare to find a group where people give so freely of their time and expertise, driven purely by a shared commitment to creating value for others. I am grateful for this opportunity and excited about what we will achieve together in the future.

Gert Van Hoecke
Director of Volunteering, PMI Belgium Chapter
volunteering@pmi-belgium.be

It is a brand new year. You have received gifts of calories and material, so why not gift yourself leadership?
That is what the book Executive Presence by Sylvia Ann Hewlett promises.

The work is based on a short survey sent to industry leaders about what makes a leader and what the greatest mistakes are.

Core Themes

The content is delivered pragmatically, along three axes: communication, appearance, and feedback, with explanations, examples, and advice for each.

Communication: We find the classical pillars of verbal excellence, conscientiousness, assertiveness, and relatability. The key killers of communication excellence lie in attention deficit and nonverbal signs of weakness.

Appearance: The key to shining is grooming, followed by classical beauty and age appropriateness. The main pitfalls are over grooming or under grooming, as well as visible insecurity.

Feedback: The author recommends, as I would, gathering frequent and constructive feedback. What may be lacking here is recognition of destructive feedback, as well as guidance on how asking for feedback can itself project insecurity.

Critical Perspective

Finally, the author refines different standards for men, women, and various ethnicities. Unfortunately, the analysis is quite egocentric and fails to offer an unbiased view of intersectional pressures on subgroups, often siding with politically convenient perspectives.

Overall, the book is a useful reminder of what makes us appear successful, with assertiveness and emotional security at the core. While I find some of the politically infused examples distastefully irrelevant, what I find truly missing are:

• A reflection on the contexts that welcome leadership. Game theory and survivorship bias would quickly challenge some of the statements presented.
• A cultural reflection, as the analysis remains rooted in a textbook American leadership model.
• An exploration of the drivers behind the judgments made in the survey, which in itself is a rather tenuous foundation for a publication.
• Practical exercises to help build the recommended capabilities.

Joachim Dehais, PhD, PMP, TOGAF, CCBA
VP Members & Volunteers, PMI Switzerland

On behalf of the Election Nominating Committee and the PMI Belgium Chapter, I am delighted to announce the elected members for the 2026-2027 term of the Board of Directors:

Board members and roles

• Anja Vandenbergh, President (re-elected for a new term)
• Grégor Nicholas , Vice President
• Saeedeh Ebrahimi Takalloo, Director of Sponsorship
• Maria Robè, Associate Director of Professional Development
• Estelle DeTrembleur, Associate Director of Finance

Our new Board members join a prestigious team under the leadership of our re-elected President, Anja Vandenbergh.

The official election results are available in this document.

Key dates Q1 2026

• 1 January 2026: New Board members take office
• 26 January 2026: Meet the Board at the New Year’s Reception, including newly elected members

I wish all newly elected Board members every success in their roles. We are sincerely grateful for their commitment to strengthening and advancing our chapter. We also thank all candidates who put themselves forward, many of whom already contribute actively to PMI Belgium Chapter initiatives.

I would also like to thank all members who participated in the vote. Without your engagement, a democratic and fair election process would not be possible.

Finally, my thanks go to the Board for endorsing the updated election rules, to John Oyewole at PMI for managing the voting system, and to my colleagues on the Election Nominating Committee for ensuring a process that was both fair and transparent.

Sincerely,

Shirley Pullan, PhD, PMP
Election Nominating Committee Chair, PMI Belgium Chapter

Today, on UN's International Volunteer Day, we celebrate you. Our entire chapter is built by volunteers, and this day is a heartfelt thank you for every hour you give, every task you complete, and every idea you bring forward.

Your dedication, passion, and commitment are the heartbeat of our chapter. Because of you, we grow, innovate, and create meaningful learning and networking opportunities for project professionals across Belgium. Your contributions elevate not only our chapter, but the entire profession of project management.

A Year Powered by You

Looking back at the past months, there were countless moments when your energy brought our community to life.

The year began with our New Year’s Reception in Mechelen, a moment to reconnect, share ambitions, and launch the board’s renewed vision. It also marked the start of the Women in Project Management (WiPM) community, whose first major milestone took place on International Women’s Day.

And then came LadiesTalk. What began with eight women gathering online quickly grew across borders, welcoming voices from Portugal, France, the Netherlands, Luxembourg, Germany, and Turkey. Sometimes we were two, sometimes eight, but always connected. These simple, agenda-free weekly sessions have become moments of reflection, support, and sisterhood. When a leader was needed to carry this growing movement forward, Shirley stepped into the role with pride and purpose.

Learning, Exploring, and Dreaming Together

A drone incident over Zaventem unexpectedly reminded many of us of our Start2Drone Event at DronePort, a day when Roeland opened the door to the fascinating world of flight rules, challenges, and innovation in aviation.

Our Members Day at Labiomista carried that spirit of exploration further. Despite the rain, friendships were formed, and inspiration took shape. The CosmoGolem sculpture invited us to write down our dreams, dreams still symbolically guarded today by the little dragon watching over them. In the calm of this nature reserve, we reconnected project management with nature, taking a meaningful pause in our shared journey.

Co-Creation That Transformed Us

Our collaboration with the IIBA Chapter and Randstad Digital brought two impactful events to life. Guided by the expertise of Didier Timperman, we explored the story of Happy Town and listened to a product owner’s perspective that opened new ways of thinking. These sessions sparked deep reflection within both communities.

A defining moment this year was the PMI BeNeLux Summit, a bold fusion of three chapters united by one vision. Moving from a national event to a joint international conference required courage, strategy, and trust. How do we stand out among the many AI-focused events? How do we engage both members and non-members?

The answer was simple: our volunteers.

Your enthusiasm transformed the summit into far more than an event. It became a milestone, filled with laughter, debates, and vibrant cultural diversity that lifted the entire experience.

The Power of Community

We concluded the year with the R&D PPM Cross-Sharing and Development Day at UCB, delivered by the Community of Life Sciences. Born last year at GSK, this community has grown through monthly co-creation and now extends far beyond a single annual event. Whitepapers, webinars, and roundtables are already on the horizon.

To sustain this momentum, a leadership duo emerged: Benoit Schmitt and Kamil Mroz. Their complementary strengths will guide the CoP Life Sciences forward, continuing to expand its reach and proudly sharing the CoP pin with all who join.

One highlight for me was seeing our board member Paolo Alagna lead a parallel session on rethinking project success in pharma, drawing on PMI’s M.O.R.E. principles. Watching him confidently take the stage reminded me how leadership within our board is shared, collaborative, and deeply committed to our members. And when he emphasized that PMI is M.O.R.E. than just certifications, the message resonated strongly with everyone present.

Our True SUPERPOWER: You

The strength of our chapter does not come from titles, structures, or events. It comes from you, our volunteers.

Your dedication turns ideas into action.
Your generosity creates spaces where knowledge can grow.
Your teamwork makes us resilient, innovative, and bold.

Because of you, we are not just a community. We are a SUPERPOWER community. A community that moves faster because we share. A community that stands stronger because we support one another. A community that reaches further because we believe in what we can create together.

Thank you for your time, your energy, your creativity, and your heart.
Thank you for showing what becomes possible when people unite around purpose.
Thank you for making this year unforgettable.

Together, we are unstoppable.
Together, we are a SUPERPOWER.

With smiling greetings,

Anja Vandenbergh, PMP
President, PMI Belgium Chapter
president@pmi-belgium.be

In this new episode of PM Untold, our host sits down with Suzan Haenen, a seasoned PMO, program, and transformation director, to explore how creativity and human connection can transform the way teams collaborate.

With extensive experience leading complex initiatives, Suzan shares her personal journey into project management and the lessons she has learned about aligning teams, fostering clarity, and keeping people at the center of every project.

One of the highlights of the discussion is Suzan’s use of LEGO® Serious Play®, a dynamic facilitation method that taps into creativity, strengthens communication, and breaks down silos. She walks us through real-world examples, including a compelling case study where play became the catalyst for bridging gaps between teams.

In this episode, we explore

• How creativity can enhance collaboration in project teams
• The role of clarity and alignment in successful transformation
• Real-world applications of LEGO® Serious Play®
• Breaking silos and encouraging meaningful dialogue
• Following your passion as a driver for career growth

Whether you are curious about new facilitation tools or looking for fresh ways to energize your projects, this episode offers practical inspiration and a reminder of why passion matters in project management.

Listen now at pmi-belgium.be/podcast

We at the PMI Belgium Chapter are extremely grateful for the time and effort that our 50+ volunteers contribute to make our organization a vibrant and engaging community focused on elevating both individual knowledge and collective competency in the field of project management.

As part of our recognition efforts, and inspired by UN's International Volunteer Day, we continue to give our volunteers a virtual podium in the newsletter to acknowledge their involvement and to inspire others to take part in our community. International Volunteer Day, celebrated annually on 5 December, was established by the United Nations to recognise the impact of volunteers worldwide. Its message reminds us that every contribution matters, and this belief is central to how we celebrate our volunteer community.

For this second edition of our Volunteer in the Spotlight, we are delighted to introduce Laji Ajithkumar, a dedicated member whose passion for project management and community building is reflected in her volunteer work. Professionally, Laji is an agile leader with a strong background in program and project management across the railway signaling and enterprise domains. She is passionate about driving collaboration and turning complex ideas into tangible results. Personally, she enjoys exploring cultural diversity, supporting community initiatives, and continuously learning about leadership and innovation.

Some of you may have met Laji during our Member Day 2025 or the PMI BeNeLux Summit 2025, where she contributed by coordinating logistics, engaging with participants, managing time schedules, and ensuring smooth event execution.

Why did you consider becoming a volunteer?

After moving to Belgium a year ago, I initially found it challenging to adapt and felt somewhat isolated. Getting involved in volunteering allowed me to immerse myself in the local culture and build meaningful connections. I decided to volunteer because I believe in giving back to the professional community that has shaped much of my career. PMI provides a unique platform to share knowledge, build connections, and promote project management as a catalyst for positive change. Volunteering enables me to contribute meaningfully while learning from others who share the same passion for excellence and growth.

What do you hope to get or have gotten out of the volunteer assignment yourself?

Volunteering has been an incredibly rewarding learning experience. It has strengthened my leadership and facilitation skills in new contexts and expanded my professional network across diverse industries. One pleasant surprise has been the genuine sense of camaraderie within the PMI Belgium volunteer community. There is a real spirit of collaboration and mutual support.

Why would you recommend others take on a volunteer role for PMI Belgium?

Volunteering with PMI Belgium is a fantastic opportunity to connect, grow, and contribute. It is not only about developing professional skills but also about becoming part of a community that values learning, integrity, and service. Whether you are new to project management or a seasoned professional, there is always something to gain and even more to give. When you volunteer, you take on the responsibility and pride of helping drive events that bring real value to our members.

Is there anything else you want to share?

I truly appreciate the welcoming and inspiring community within PMI Belgium. Every event and initiative reflects a deep commitment to excellence, collaboration, and meaningful impact. Volunteering here has been both personally fulfilling and professionally enriching, and I look forward to continuing to contribute to initiatives that empower professionals and strengthen our project management community.

Gert Van Hoecke
Director of Volunteering, PMI Belgium Chapter
volunteering@pmi-belgium.be

On Friday, 28 November 2025, the UCB campus in Brussels hosted the R&D Project and Portfolio Management (PPM) Cross-sharing & Development Day, an event organised by the PMI Belgium Chapter. The gathering brought together project managers and life sciences professionals from across Europe to explore strategies for enhancing project success in complex, innovation-driven environments. A key milestone of the day was the official launch of the Community of Practice (CoP) Life Sciences, marking a new chapter in collaborative knowledge-sharing within the sector.

Insights from PMI Europe

Denis Lassance, Managing Director of PMI Europe, opened the event with a reflection on the impact of PMI across the continent. He emphasised that PMI is more than an institute. It is a connected community where professionals from different cultures and industries share experience, support one another, and elevate project success together. Denis highlighted the strength of collective intelligence as a driver for value creation and long-term project impact.

A Community Powered by Collaboration

Building on this message, Anja Vandenbergh, President of PMI Belgium Chapter, described PMI as a community built on unity, collaboration, and purpose. She encouraged participants to see themselves as part of a broader movement, where each member plays a role in turning ambition into practical results. Her message reinforced the importance of connection and co-creation within the project management profession.

Understanding Project Success at UCB

Setting the tone for the discussions, host Gordon Topping explored how UCB defines and measures project success. His insights grounded the day's exchanges in real organisational practice and provided a framework for the reflections that followed.

Official Launch of the CoP Life Sciences

A highlight of the event was the formal launch of the Community of Practice Life Sciences. The initiative aims to create a shared space where professionals working in R&D, clinical development, regulatory environments, and related fields can exchange best practices and strengthen their collective expertise. During the inauguration, Benoit Schmitt and Kamil Mroz were appointed as co-leaders of the community. Their nomination was met with enthusiasm and reflects their longstanding engagement in the Belgian life sciences ecosystem.

Exploring the Many Dimensions of Project Success

The agenda featured presentations from speakers representing UCB, Agomab, and GSK. Each brought a unique perspective on defining, measuring, and achieving project success in the life sciences sector. The talks addressed challenges inherent in R&D delivery, the importance of cross-functional collaboration, and practical lessons drawn from real-world case studies.

Panel Debate and the Battle of Ideas

The day’s most dynamic exchange emerged during the panel discussion and the interactive “battle of ideas”, facilitated by Patrice Blanchard. Teams explored four scenarios comparing Agile and Critical Chain methodologies. The debate demonstrated that while each method brings valuable strengths, many effective solutions in R&D environments emerge through portfolio-level thinking and careful governance rather than strict adherence to a single methodology. The positive response to this format has already inspired interest in creating a dedicated future event focused on similar debates.

M.O.R.E. Than Certifications

Speakers also reflected on PMI’s M.O.R.E. philosophy and reminded participants that PMI represents far more than certifications. It provides a platform for learning, development, and governance excellence. The emphasis on accountability, transparency, and value-based delivery resonated with attendees and complemented the day’s focus on project success.

Conclusion and Outlook

The R&D PPM Cross-sharing & Development Day succeeded in strengthening the dialogue on project success across the life sciences sector. The launch of the Community of Practice Life Sciences lays the foundation for ongoing collaboration, with future activities expected to include whitepapers, roundtables, webinars, and an annual event. By uniting thought leaders and practitioners, the PMI Belgium Chapter continues to foster a vibrant environment where project professionals can learn, exchange, and innovate together.

PMI Belgium Chapter and UCB R&D PPM Teams

PMI is introducing a new membership model. This update has raised questions for many professionals: Will the price change? How does chapter membership fit into the new structure? And most importantly, what value do members actually receive?

This article provides a clear overview of what is changing, how it affects different groups, and the benefits that come with the unified PMI membership model, which includes both global and chapter advantages.

Understanding the New Model

Under the new structure, every PMI Global member will automatically be linked to a local chapter. The goal is simple: ensure members benefit not only from PMI’s global resources, but also from a local professional community.

Here is what the change means depending on your current status:

• If you are already a PMI Belgium Chapter member:
  Your membership and pricing remain the same. Nothing changes for you.
• If you are a PMI member without a chapter affiliation:
  Your fee will increase slightly, as standalone global membership will no longer exist. You will automatically be connected to your local chapter.
• If you are not a PMI member yet:
  You will simply see the new unified membership model when joining.

What You Receive as a Member

The new model does not only simplify membership. It strengthens the value of being part of PMI.

Local value: Learning and networking throughout the year

As a PMI Belgium Chapter member, you gain access to a full year of learning and community activities without paying per event. In 2025, members could join a wide range of activities including:

• New Year’s Reception
• Women in Project Management Day
• Start2Drone
• Member Day at Labiomista
• Scope Management sessions
• Product vs Project Management session
• R&D Cross-Sharing & Development Day
• PMI BeNeLux Summit

The combined value of these events exceeds 300 euros, offering regular opportunities to learn, network, and stay connected with the Belgian project community.

Global value: Standards, certifications, and learning resources

Your membership also gives you direct access to PMI Global resources such as:

• All PMI Standards and Guides, including the latest PMBOK Guide (worth more than 500 euros if purchased individually)
• Discounted certification exam fees, which can reduce costs by more than 2,500 euros depending on the certification
• Free professional development courses
• The All-Access Reading Center, with publications like Harvard Business Review and AdWeek
• Career Navigator and PMI Job Board

These resources support both daily practice and long-term career progression.

AI resources and PMI Infinity

PMI has invested heavily in AI-powered tools for project professionals. Members have access to:

• AI training modules
• Guides and practical resources
• PMI Infinity, PMI’s dedicated AI assistant for project professionals

Combined, these represent more than 2,700 euros in additional value.

A Stronger, Simpler Membership

The updated membership model simplifies the experience and ensures all PMI practitioners benefit from both global and local support. Whether you are focusing on certification, career development, or community engagement, the return on investment goes well beyond the annual fee.

For new members, it means joining a global institute while immediately connecting to a local network.
For existing PMI Belgium Chapter members, it means continued access to events, learning, and community at the same cost as today.

Tim Gaens
Director of Membership, PMI Belgium Chapter
membership@pmi-belgium.be

The annual Board Elections are an important milestone for the governance and continuity of our Chapter.

I invite all members to participate in the Chapter elections taking place in December. With the appointment of an independent Nominating Committee and an improved election process, these elections are the most rigorous and transparent to date. The role of the Committee is to evaluate the validity of each candidate prior to open voting and to ensure that the election is fair and correctly followed.

Several board members are completing their terms, and the Committee has confirmed candidates for the open roles. Your vote determines who will guide the Chapter’s activities, governance, and strategic direction for the coming term.

Key dates:

• 1 December: Voting opens
• 13 December: Voting closes
• 14 December: Results announced

Invitations for voting have been sent out to each Chapter member. Please review the candidate information carefully and cast your vote. Voting is a small action with long-term impact. It ensures that our leadership reflects the needs of project professionals across all industries, preserves transparent governance, and keeps the Chapter aligned with your priorities.

PMI Belgium is a community built by members for its members. Your vote shapes the programs, partnerships, and events that support our professional growth. Please take a moment to vote between 1 and 13 December.

Sincerely,

Shirley Pullan, PhD, PMP
Election Nominating Committee Chair, PMI Belgium Chapter

The PMI Global Summit 2025, held from 12-15 November in Phoenix, delivered several important updates for the worldwide project management community. This year’s announcements highlighted advancements across standards, certifications, and digital tools, each designed to support the evolving needs of project professionals.

Below is a summary of the key developments shaping the future of our profession.

PMBOK Guide - Eighth Edition Now Available

A major milestone was reached with the release of the PMBOK Guide - Eighth Edition, now available to all PMI members. Shaped by extensive input from practitioners around the world, this edition continues to serve as a foundational reference for project professionals. It reinforces PMI’s commitment to modern, adaptive, and value-driven project delivery, reflecting the realities of how teams work today.

Members can download the new edition directly through PMI.org.

PMP Certification Exam Refresh Coming in July 2026

PMI announced a refreshed Project Management Professional (PMP) exam launching in July 2026, designed to ensure the certification remains aligned with emerging practices and expectations across industries.

Key updates to the new exam include:

• Future-forward topics: increased emphasis on AI, sustainability, and value-focused decision-making.
• Adaptive approaches: stronger focus on Agile and hybrid methods, with less emphasis on strictly predictive models.
• Outcome and impact orientation: expanded coverage of value delivery beyond traditional scope, schedule, and cost measures.
• More inclusive eligibility: recognition of apprenticeships and vocational education as valid pathways.

The updated Exam Content Outline is available now, with pilot opportunities and refreshed exam prep materials planned for early 2026.

PMI Infinity: Next-Generation AI for Project Professionals

PMI introduced the latest version of PMI Infinity, an AI solution designed specifically for project management. Now available on PMI.org and the PMI Official mobile app, PMI Infinity offers:

• Project-ready guidance based on PMI standards and leading practices.
• More relevant intelligence tailored to how projects are delivered today.
• Secure-by-design architecture ensuring private and reliable use.
• Mobile accessibility, bringing AI-supported decision-making wherever members work.

PMI Infinity is available as an exclusive member benefit, with a 30-day free trial for non-members.

New Advanced Certification in Development

PMI is progressing on an advanced-level certification designed for practitioners leading high-complexity and high-impact initiatives. The pilot phase is currently underway with select accredited organizations.

Candidates participating in the pilot will follow a three-step process:

• Hold an active PMP certification.
• Complete a peer review conducted by a PMI-accredited organization.
• Take a PMI standardized proctored exam.

More details will be shared as the pilot continues and the certification moves toward its planned 2026 launch.

These updates reflect PMI’s ongoing commitment to strengthening our profession and equipping project professionals with modern standards, enhanced certifications, and intelligent tools. We encourage practitioners to stay informed, explore the new resources, and prepare for the opportunities ahead.

Our chapter remains committed to sharing updates and supporting our community as the project landscape continues to evolve.

George Acsente
Content Creator & Editor, PMI Belgium Chapter

Who is Cal Newport?

Cal Newport is a computer science professor at Georgetown University, renowned author, and productivity philosopher. Known for challenging conventional wisdom about work, focus, and digital culture, he has carved a niche as one of today’s most original thinkers on the future of knowledge work.

His previous books Deep Work, So Good They Can’t Ignore You, and Digital Minimalism have influenced executives, creatives, and students alike to rethink how they use their attention and time.

In Slow Productivity, Newport takes his trademark contrarian stance a step further, calling for a rebellion against the culture of overload. Instead of measuring productivity by hours worked or emails answered, he argues for quality over quantity and meaningful accomplishment over constant busyness.

Key Ideas Behind Slow Productivity

Slow Productivity: The Lost Art of Accomplishment Without Burnout is Cal Newport’s latest and most mature call for reform in the way we work. It is not a book about getting more done. It is about getting the right things done, sustainably.

Newport dissects the modern obsession with visible activity such as endless emails, check-ins, dashboards, and digital “presence” that masquerade as productivity, and exposes it for what it is: performance, not progress. In his view, we have optimized the modern workplace for motion, not meaning.

Question for you: How much of your workday is "performance" (looking busy) versus "progress" (doing meaningful work)?

Newport's latest book is not about doing less to be lazy. It is about doing fewer, better things to achieve great, lasting results. It is about building a legacy instead of just getting burned out.

The Three Principles of Slow Productivity

To rebuild a healthier model of professional achievement, Newport proposes three guiding principles of slow productivity:

1. Do fewer things: Instead of scattering our attention across dozens of low-impact initiatives, Newport urges us to protect focus for the few essential efforts that truly create value. By pruning the unnecessary, professionals can channel depth and mastery into what remains.
2. Work at a natural pace: Humans are not algorithms, and meaningful progress follows a rhythm, not constancy. Newport draws on examples from nature, art, and science to show that great work often emerges through cycles or periods of intensity followed by rest, incubation, and reflection.
3. Obsess over quality: Rather than chasing metrics or arbitrary deadlines, Newport advocates a craftsman’s mindset, where excellence and longevity replace speed and quantity as the ultimate measures of success.

Throughout the book, Newport intertwines insights from history, philosophy, and modern work science. From Jane Austen’s disciplined writing routine to Newton’s reflective isolation during the plague years, he illustrates how some of humanity’s greatest accomplishments arose from slow, deliberate effort rather than frantic multitasking. These examples are not nostalgia; they are evidence that enduring achievement requires time, solitude, and focus, qualities the modern workplace has systematically eroded.

Beyond the theory, Newport turns his attention to application. He explores how individuals and organizations alike can translate slow productivity into practice. He suggests rethinking how workloads are designed, especially for knowledge workers, to allow deep and uninterrupted work. He introduces “focus rituals” as a counterweight to distraction and proposes embracing seasonal productivity, where intense creative bursts are naturally followed by slower periods of rest, planning, or maintenance. This cyclical model challenges the “always-on” mindset that dominates today’s professional culture.

At its core, Slow Productivity redefines what it means to be productive in the 21st century. Newport does not argue for doing less as an excuse for laziness; he frames it as an act of strategic wisdom. Doing fewer things, more slowly, and with greater care is not a retreat from ambition; it is a return to the kind of ambition that builds legacies rather than burnout.

Practical Lessons for Project Managers

While Slow Productivity is written for a global audience, its message lands particularly well in the European context where project managers often face hybrid teams, cross-border compliance, and the constant pressure to “do more with less.” Newport’s framework provides a mental reset that helps PMs manage both the pace and purpose of work.

Here are several practical applications:

1. Reclaiming Focus in Multi-Country Projects (e.g., EU-funded programs)
• Problem: EU projects often juggle complex reporting, multiple stakeholders, and bureaucratic overhead.
• Application: By applying Newport’s “Do fewer things” principle, a PM could streamline reporting templates, centralize communication tools, and eliminate redundant update meetings.
• Example: In a Horizon Europe research project with seven partner institutions, the PM introduced a two-tier communication rhythm with one monthly strategic sync and one asynchronous status log. The team reduced meeting hours by 40% and delivered output faster with better documentation.

Two-Tier Communication: Stop having constant status-update meetings. Use one tool for asynchronous (non-urgent) updates, such as a shared log, and reserve meetings only for strategic decisions.

1. Balancing Workload in Matrix Organizations (e.g., Automotive or Pharma)
• Problem: PMs in Europe’s manufacturing or pharma sectors often handle multiple concurrent projects with tight regulatory deadlines.
• Application: Using Newport’s concept of working at a natural pace, PMs can implement rolling capacity reviews every sprint, adjusting scope instead of squeezing time.
• Example: A project office in Stuttgart adopted “focus weeks,” periods free of internal presentations, allowing engineers to dive deep into design validation. The result: improved quality and fewer post-launch defects.

The "Slow Sprint": If you use a project method like Scrum, dedicate every fourth or fifth iteration purely to polishing, refining, and reflection. This is where quality gets baked in, reducing costly rework later.

1. Reducing Burnout in Distributed Teams (e.g., Belgium–Poland–Netherlands setups)
• Problem: Culturally diverse teams often fall into the trap of over-communication and misaligned expectations.
• Application: The PM applies slow productivity by setting clear “deep work windows” where messages and meetings are minimized.
• Example: In an ERP rollout spanning Antwerp, Kraków, and Amsterdam, the PM implemented “Quiet Tuesdays,” where there are no Teams calls before 14:00. Productivity metrics improved and reported stress levels dropped significantly.

The "Quiet Tuesday": Implement a deep work window for you and your team, for example, no meetings or internal messaging before 2 PM on Tuesdays. This forces focus and gives everyone time for real work.

1. Improving Stakeholder Management in Public Projects
• Problem: Municipal or EU-funded initiatives often equate progress with visible activity through constant updates, press releases, or dashboards.
• Application: By shifting focus to quality over visibility, PMs can present fewer, more meaningful milestones instead of endless progress noise.
• Example: A city infrastructure PM in Copenhagen reduced progress meetings with the contractor from weekly to bi-monthly but required richer deliverables and post-review reflections. Both trust and output quality increased.
2. Embedding Craftsmanship into Deliverables (e.g., Digital Transformation Projects)
• Problem: Many digital projects fall into “release fatigue” because of constant small launches with no time for refinement or deep understanding of the work.
• Application: Newport’s “obsess over quality” approach translates into deliberate craftsmanship by using quality gates and reflective reviews to refine deliverables.
• Example: A fintech PM in Paris introduced a “slow sprint” every fifth iteration, dedicated purely to design and UX polishing. Customer satisfaction jumped, and rework costs fell by 25%.

Final Thoughts

For project managers operating in multicultural, highly regulated, and complex environments, Slow Productivity, as mentioned before, is not just philosophical; it is strategic.

It legitimizes a leadership style that values focus over frenzy, impact over visibility, and long-term resilience over short-term performance theater. These are lessons we also heard during the COVID-19 crisis.

Grégor Nicolas
PMI Belgium Chapter member

Step forward. Lead change. Become a candidate.

Elections are not just about choosing leaders. They are about shaping the future of our Chapter. They ensure that every member’s voice is heard and that our collective needs are represented.

When we cast our votes, we take part in something bigger than ourselves.

For full details on the open positions, eligibility, and process, please consult the official Elections 2025 document.

Why are elections important?

Leadership renewal is vital for any organization that wants to stay relevant, innovative, and resilient.

• Bring new ideas, methods, and perspectives
• Embrace change and technology, accelerating our ability to adapt and evolve
• Strengthen the pipeline of future leaders, ensuring continuity and preparedness for change

Strategic guidance is about seeing beyond the horizon. It means aligning every decision with purpose, knowing when to stay the course and when to chart a new path.

Step forward with purpose. Lead with conviction. Help guide PMI Belgium into its next great chapter where every person can contribute, every voice is heard, and every opportunity embraced.

Why consider becoming a Chapter Board Member?

Enhance your leadership skills

Volunteering as a Board Member provides a unique platform to demonstrate and grow your leadership capabilities.

Expand your network

Connect with a diverse group of professionals, industry leaders, and peers, opening doors to new opportunities.

Make a difference

By dedicating your time and expertise, you help shape PMI Belgium’s direction and strengthen our professional community. You will contribute to delivering value for members through events, resources, and collaboration.

Earn PDUs for your certification

Board Members earn PDUs toward maintaining PMI certifications, supporting their own professional growth.

Eligibility criteria

To be eligible as a Board Member, you must:

• Be a member in good standing of both PMI and PMI Belgium
• Agree to the PMI Code of Ethics and Professional Conduct

Commitment

Board Members participate in:

• Monthly board meetings (Tuesdays, 19:30–21:00)
• Bi-weekly coordination meetings (Thursdays, 19:30–20:30)
• Two annual strategic onsite meetings (on a Saturday)

Additionally, new Board Members are required to complete mandatory online e-learning modules from PMI to prepare for their role.

Ready to get involved? Visit our Volunteering page to view the open Board roles and submit your application via VEP.

Anja Vandenbergh, PMP
President, PMI Belgium Chapter
president@pmi-belgium.be

Over the past two months, there have been two situations that triggered a real rollercoaster of emotions. The first situation tested my boundaries. As many of you know, I have gone through a spiritual journey, a search for myself. Who is Anja? And how do I stay true to my authenticity? That journey aligned my head (thinking and analyzing) with my heart (feeling). It made me stronger. Even while laughing, I remained watchful to keep that straight line in balance.

Losing Balance and Finding Strength Again

But a toxic work environment threw me off balance. My emotions began to surface through words, through micromanagement. As an HSP, I am extremely sensitive to circumstances and to people. People often think that because I smile, I do not take things seriously or that I do not approach my assignments professionally. Negative comments began to weigh heavier and heavier, and doubts started creeping in. The smile faded. Silence and distance took its place. And then came an unpleasant email from a colleague, just a few hours before I was about to leave on vacation.

Vacation should be a time to relax and recharge. For me, it became a time to turn inward again, to reconnect with myself, to restore that alignment between head and heart. Traveling through Albania, with its stunning coastal and mountain landscapes, gave me strength to find my balance again. Yet the question kept echoing in my mind: do I stay in a toxic environment, or do I look for another mission? And if I stay, why? If I say yes, I know the coming months will not be easy.

After my vacation, the atmosphere had not improved. Preparations for the PMI BeNeLux Summit 2025 were intensifying. I had also returned from a PMI Presidents’ Meeting with a viral infection that sent me straight from the airport to the emergency room. I was prescribed a strong course of antibiotics and told to rest my left arm, not easy for a left-hander.

A few hours before leaving for the Summit, another unpleasant email arrived. I decided to park it until after the event. The PMI BeNeLux Summit brought me closer to myself, reminding me why I invest so much energy and love into my volunteer work with PMI. It remains a journey of continuous learning, of falling and getting back up again and again.

Choosing to Stop

After the Summit, the situation with the client exploded, and I said: “It stops now. I am ending the assignment.” Everyone was shocked. “Wait, what?” Except for one person who simply said, “That is fine. We can move on without you.”

And here comes the courage of setting boundaries. It takes courage to stop, knowing you are ending an assignment and giving up financial security. But setting boundaries is so important. How often have you crossed your own limits? And how did you feel when you did? Exhausted, drained, full of doubt. Since I had the courage to stop, I have felt a weight lift off my shoulders. Do I regret it? No. I trust that another mission will come, one that aligns with my values and expertise. In the days following this courageous stop, my smile returned. I felt calmer, more at peace. I stayed one more week to ensure a proper handover.

A New Flow of Creativity

Since Monday, October 27, I have been at home, without an assignment but with plenty of PMI work, and that is good. I have also had meaningful conversations with those who know what I have been through over the past two months. I still feel a bit exhausted from the antibiotics, which I was finally able to stop this week.

I am grateful I had the courage to stop. Everything will be all right. My creativity is flowing again, and I am developing a three-part webinar series that can be followed as a sequence or individually. A conversation with Joachim Dehais from the PMI Switzerland Chapter inspired me to create it, an integrated webinar around three pillars: Simplicity, Difference, and Boundaries. Why those three pillars? That is my expertise and my talent. I am known for turning complexity into simplicity. I am different because I integrate laughter and breathing into my professional assignments, and thanks to my spiritual journey, I can build boundaries to live and lead with integrity.

The Power of Co-Creations: Thank You

October was all about collaboration on different levels.

Collaboration between three PMI Chapters led to an incredibly powerful event: the PMI BeNeLux Summit. On October 10, nearly 400 project managers gathered in Maastricht for a day themed “Project Management in the Era of AI,” built around three pillars: Precision, Innovation, and Creativity. Both national and international speakers shared their expertise and perspectives on the impact of AI in the world of project management.

As President, I am immensely proud and grateful for this wonderful collaboration. Working together with three chapters adds an extra dimension: a team that barely knew each other grew into one that supported and helped one another whenever needed, without being asked. The shift in energy showed how volunteers can unite around one great passion: project management.

Another co-creation took place at Ghent University, where, together with Geert Cloostermans, Director of Academic and Outreach, we at PMI Belgium had the honor of presenting an award to student Linde van Hulle upon completing her Master’s in Corporate Finance.

You might ask what Finance has to do with Project Management. In fact, everything. Just look back at the Project Cost Management chapter in the PMBOK® Guide – Eighth Edition, which once again emphasizes the importance of knowledge areas.

The graduation ceremony was a remarkable experience. As award presenters, Geert and I were invited to join the academic procession alongside the rector, vice-rector, and professors of the master’s programs, a truly special moment. After the ceremony, we met Linde, whom we definitely plan to invite to our next New Year’s reception.

The next co-creation was our third event with the IIBA Brussels Chapter. Once again, we revisited our Happy Town event, this time through the lens of project managers and business analysts. A third dimension was added: the product owner.

It turned out to be an engaging evening and, for some participants, a real eye-opener regarding the role of the business analyst. Many organizations today still struggle to distinguish between these three roles; often, it is the project manager who ends up taking them all on. Yet this collaboration with the IIBA Chapter demonstrated once again that interaction among these roles is vital to the success of any project, whatever the project may deliver.

The Last Two Months of the Year and a New Beginning Ahead

As we enter the final stretch of the year, we are also approaching an exciting moment for our PMI Chapter. Some of our dedicated board members are reaching the end of their term, and that means it is time to open the door for new leadership, fresh energy, and bold ideas.

In reference to the approved bylaws rev. 7 (17 December 2024), we are now inviting passionate members to step forward and join our leadership team in one of the following roles:

• President
• Vice President
• Director of Sponsorship
• Associate Director of Finance
• Associate Director of Professional Development

If you have ever felt inspired to make a difference, to contribute your ideas, your energy, and your vision, now is the perfect time. Together, we can continue building a vibrant, connected, and forward-thinking PMI community.

Your voice matters. Your contribution shapes our future. Take the leap, show your courage, and become part of the next chapter of our Chapter.

Anja Vandenbergh, PMP
President, PMI Belgium Chapter
president@pmi-belgium.be

In this new episode of PM Untold, our host Ana Felisberto interviews Fernando Fernandez Rodriguez, Senior Global Transformation Manager at Amazon and Vice President of PMI Luxembourg Chapter, about his extensive experience in project management across different industries and organizational contexts.

Fernando shares insights on how project management practices differ between large corporations and smaller companies, with a strong focus on stakeholder management, risk management, and aligning project goals with company objectives. He also talks about the methodologies used in project management, the essential tools for effective collaboration, and a personal story of overcoming challenges in a global project.

In this episode, we explore

• Different project management methodologies: Agile or Waterfall
• Stakeholder and risk management in different organizations
• Aligning project goals with company objectives
• Cross-departmental collaboration strategies
• Practical tools and systems for different phases and purposes in project management
• Some unique ways of working at Amazon
• Continuous learning and adapting

Whether you are leading a cross-functional team in a global organization or managing projects for startups, this episode is packed with real-world insights, learnings from personal stories, practical advice, and plenty of inspiration.

Listen now at pmi-belgium.be/podcast

This reflection by Richard Woodham, President of PMI Luxembourg Chapter, captures the spirit and key moments of the PMI BeNeLux Summit 2025, a joint initiative of our three chapters and a true celebration of collaboration across the region.

As we look back on the PMI BeNeLux Summit 2025, I feel a great sense of pride and gratitude. This outstanding event marked a series of firsts for our community. With nearly 400 project professionals in attendance and a record number of sponsoring partners, it was our largest and most ambitious summit to date.

The event was powered by over 35 passionate volunteers from across the Benelux and beyond, working tirelessly behind the scenes to bring this vision to life. Their professionalism, energy, and teamwork reflected everything that makes our PMI community so special.

A Day of Ideas and Insights

The theme, Project Management in the AI Era: Bridging Precision, Creativity, and Innovation, perfectly captured the conversations and insights that defined the day. Together, we explored how artificial intelligence is reshaping the world of projects while reaffirming that human leadership, empathy, and creativity remain at the core of success, along with the growing importance of sustainability.

Key takeaways included:

• Emotional intelligence plays a key role in preparing for massive technological disruption, as emphasized by Christian Kromme.
• Integrating AI into sustainability strategies can unlock significant benefits. For example, 52 percent of organizations that have done so report improved cost savings, compared with 32 percent of those still in the exploration stage.
• The future of project management is hybrid, blending predictive and adaptive approaches to deliver true value, a key insight from Bart Briers.

Celebrating Our Community

A heartfelt thank you to our speakers for sharing their expertise, and to all attendees for their enthusiasm, curiosity, and engagement throughout the day. Your energy made this event not just a success but a true celebration of our Benelux project management community.

Partners in Success

The success of the summit would not have been possible without the generous support of our sponsors, who share our belief in the power of professional project management. Their partnership enabled us to provide participants with practical insights, hands-on experiences, and demonstrations of innovation in action.

Strength in Community

Beyond the presentations, the day was a true celebration of the Benelux project management community. Attendees from diverse industries such as finance, technology, government, and pharmaceuticals came together to exchange experiences and forge new professional connections. The engagement throughout the event reflected the collaborative spirit and shared purpose that make our community so strong.

You can relive the highlights by watching the official aftermovie.

Looking Ahead

Together, we have shown that in an era shaped by technology and change, project managers are the bridge between precision, creativity, and innovation, helping shape a future where project management and AI work hand in hand to deliver sustainable, meaningful results.

We look forward to continuing this successful journey together at next year’s PMI BeNeLux Summit in Brussels.

Richard Woodham
President, PMI Luxembourg Chapter
president@pmi.lu

This article was first published on the PMI Belgium website as part of our Benelux collaboration initiative and authored by Richard Woodham, President of PMI Luxembourg Chapter.

What does the new PMI membership model mean for you and me?

We already shared an update about this change, but here is a short recap of what it includes.

Key highlights of the new model

You will benefit from:

• Simplified access
• Maximized network
• Enhanced member experience
• Diverse industry connections
• Local expertise and global insights

And it means:

• Automatic inclusion in a home chapter based on your primary address
• Residence-based affiliation starting in 2026
• The option to purchase additional chapters as add-ons worldwide
• No fee increases for the included chapter

What does a chapter membership offer?

If you’re not yet familiar with what chapter membership includes, here’s a quick overview:

• All the benefits PMI already offers: discounts on certifications and renewals, free or discounted eLearning courses, free digital access to foundational standards such as the PMBOK® Guide, plus member-only tools like PMI Infinity™, the AI-powered coach, and much more.
• The opportunity to join local events. Even if there are none nearby, you can suggest new event locations to the PMI Belgium Chapter.
• Discounts at local events, many of which are free for members.
• Enhanced access to the PMI Belgium Chapter website, including webinars and documentation exclusive to members.
• Networking opportunities, both online and in person.

What should you do to make sure you don’t miss out?

To ensure you continue receiving all benefits and remain connected to PMI Belgium:

• Review your PMI membership settings and make sure your information is up to date.
• Your included chapter is based on your primary registered address.
  • If your primary address is in Belgium, PMI Belgium will be your included chapter.
  • You may still purchase additional chapters worldwide as add-ons, regardless of where you live.
  • If your registered country changes, PMI may require proof of residence to update it.
    PMI Customer Care can support you with this process when needed.

How to verify your address

1. Go to PMI.org
2. Log in to your account
3. Click on your name in the top-right corner and choose Account
4. In the Personal Information tab, scroll down to Addresses
5. 

We look forward to welcoming you to the PMI Belgium Chapter under the new membership model.

Tim Gaens
Director of Membership, PMI Belgium Chapter
membership@pmi-belgium.be

The PMI Belgium Chapter is extremely grateful for the time and effort that our 50+ volunteers contribute to make our organization a vibrant and engaging community focused on elevating both individual knowledge and collective competency in the field of project management.

We therefore want to give our volunteers a virtual podium in the newsletter to recognize their involvement and to inspire others to do the same.

For this very first edition of our new Volunteer in the Spotlight, we are delighted to introduce Nurşen Erginsoy, a dedicated member of PMI Belgium whose passion for project management and community building shines through her volunteer work. Professionally, Nurşen bridges technical expertise with human-centric leadership, driving strategic initiatives and fostering meaningful connections. Personally, she enjoys engaging with diverse cultures and is committed to continuous learning and growth, both individually and as part of a community.

Some of you might have met Nurşen during the PMI BeNeLux Summit 2025, where she was one of the volunteers assisting speakers and participants by answering questions, providing directions, and supporting logistical needs. You may also have seen her at events throughout the year, including the New Year’s Reception ’24, the weekly Women in Project Management (WiPM) online meetings, or the first physical WiPM meeting held on International Women’s Day.

Why did you consider becoming a volunteer?

Volunteering aligns deeply with my belief in giving back and growing together. I wanted to give back to the project management community that has supported my own growth. Volunteering provided a platform to share knowledge, expand my network, and develop new skills in a real-world setting, all while contributing to an organization whose mission I truly believe in.

What do you hope to get or have gotten out of the volunteer assignment yourself?

Through this experience, I’ve gained not only practical insights into event management but also unexpected friendships and mentors, something that even digital platforms can’t fully replicate. The most rewarding part was realizing how much collective energy and passion volunteers bring, reminding me that every small effort contributes to something bigger.

Why would you recommend others take on a volunteer role for PMI Belgium?

I would highly recommend volunteering with PMI Belgium because it’s more than just an opportunity to help, it’s a chance to grow. I’d recommend volunteering to anyone looking to build not just their resume, but also their confidence, network, and sense of belonging. Whether you’re sharing insights online (like when I was responsible for taking care of my daughter and couldn’t participate in physical activities) or participating in events, every contribution helps you grow while making a real impact. Whether you’re looking to build leadership skills, connect with like-minded professionals, or simply give back, PMI Belgium offers a supportive and enriching environment in which to do so.

Is there anything else you want to share?

I’d like to extend my gratitude to everyone at PMI Belgium for fostering such a warm and collaborative volunteer culture. Being part of this community has been both a privilege and an inspiration, and I encourage anyone considering volunteering to take that step. You might be surprised at how much you receive in return.

I remember last year, a few months after I became a PMI Belgium Chapter member, when I didn't know anyone yet, we met in Mechelen for a New Year’s Reception. The significance of this event for me was that it was the first time I’d ever attended such an event, leaving my 10-month-old daughter with her father in a country I had just moved to. It was the most fun I’d ever had alone. There were some amazing people there who made me feel so close and friendly, as if I’d known them before. I’m so glad you exist.

I’d love to invite the PMI Belgium community to connect with me on social media (LinkedIn and Instagram), where I regularly share content focused on organizational changes accelerated or influenced by technology and personal development. I also share this content monthly on my website and newsletter. In addition, I post my impressions of events I attend or trips I take, developing perspective and inspiring networking and collaboration energy.

Volunteering has reminded me that every connection matters, online and offline, and I’m excited to continue this journey with all of you.

Gert Van Hoecke
Director of Volunteering, PMI Belgium Chapter
volunteering@pmi-belgium.be

Introduction

As AI reshapes how we work, questions of ethics and transparency are becoming central to project leadership. In this thought-provoking reflection, Paolo Alagna explores why authenticity and accountability must guide our use of AI and how project managers can lead by example in the age of intelligent machines.

AI in Projects: Beyond the Hype

Let me start with a promise: this is not another article about how to use AI in your projects. Honestly, I’m still waiting to see a real, embedded case study that goes beyond theory. There’s no shortage of conversations about what AI could do, but far fewer practical examples of what it actually does in daily project life. So no, this isn’t another “AI in Project Management” article.

And here’s my second confession: I have mixed feelings about calling it Artificial Intelligence. Not because I’m afraid of it, quite the opposite, I fully embrace this revolution. But calling it “intelligent” gives it a little too much credit, too early.

Yesterday, for example, I found myself arguing with Steevena, yes, that’s what I named my “Innovation Assistant,” because it didn’t know that Pope Francis had passed away or what happens at the Davos World Economic Forum.

Why Words Matter

Words matter. And for me, the word intelligence implies something human: the ability to manifest intentions and to distinguish right from wrong. When (and if) machines reach that point, it will not be a milestone for progress; it will mark the beginning of the end of humankind.

But that is another discussion, not the topic of this article.

From Hype to Honesty

AI, or more precisely, Generative AI, has become the unavoidable conversation of our time. Everywhere we look, on LinkedIn, in articles, in videos, we are surrounded by new tools, bold promises, and endless debates. Everyone talks about it, many claim to use it. Few can show real implementations in their daily work.

AI can make our jobs faster and, in some cases, even more efficient, but it also brings new challenges. We now live in a world where it is increasingly difficult to see where human effort ends and machine output begins.

And in that blur between man and machine, one truth stands out clearly: transparency is no longer optional; it is essential.

Transparency as a Professional Value

Being open about how we use AI is not a matter of compliance. It is a matter of professional respect, respect for our readers, our clients, our colleagues, and our profession.

I am a big admirer of Ricardo Vargas and Antonio Nieto-Rodriguez, two pioneers of modern project management. While listening to one of Ricardo’s five-minute podcasts about the World Economic Forum in Davos, something caught my attention. He mentioned that misinformation and disinformation, powered by AI, had been identified by world leaders as the top global risk. That made me curious, so I dug deeper.

The Global Risks Report 2025 confirmed it: AI-generated fake content has become the greatest short-term threat to social trust and stability.

With deepfake videos, synthetic voices, and machine-written articles flooding our feeds, truth itself is becoming negotiable. And that is not only a media issue; it is a professional challenge.

As project managers, our success depends on our capacity to deliver value through our projects. But that value cannot exist without authenticity. Our ability to build genuine relationships remains at the core of our profession.

Yet many professionals risk creating a “doped” version of themselves online, one that looks impressive for a moment but quickly backfires, because credibility, once lost, is hard to regain.

At the end of the day, our influence does not come from how we appear, but from how we act with honesty and consistency.

Project Managers as Ethics Leaders

Project managers already operate at the crossroads of technology, people, and process. That unique position makes us the ideal professionals to lead by example in the age of AI.

Just as we manage scope, risk, and change, we must now learn to manage AI ethics and transparency, not because someone tells us to, but because our leadership credibility depends on it.

If we want to earn the trust of stakeholders, sponsors, and teams, we must show that technology does not replace judgment, it enhances responsibility. When we show integrity in how we use AI, we set a new standard for others to follow.

The AI Engagement Transparency Matrix

To make this principle practical, I propose the AI Engagement Transparency Matrix. It helps professionals clearly document which parts of their work are performed by humans and which are supported by AI.

Here is an example of an AI Engagement Transparency Matrix used during my latest keynote speech:

This table is not about compliance or self-defense; it is about trust. It is a transparent statement that says: “I use AI, but I remain fully accountable for my work.”

Including this matrix at the end of an article, a report, or a presentation builds credibility. It invites others to do the same and raises the overall ethical standard of our profession.

Five Ways to Lead with Transparency

As project managers, we can integrate this mindset into everyday work, in ways that are practical, measurable, and visible.

1. Include AI transparency in project governance.
   When defining processes or templates, add a simple question: “Was AI used in this step? If so, how?”
2. Apply the matrix in project documentation.
   Use it in reports, lessons learned, or communications to show where automation supports the team.
3. Coach your team on ethical AI use.
   Encourage others to disclose AI contributions, not to control them, but to normalize honesty.
4. Model the behavior.
   When you use AI yourself, share openly what it did and what you validated manually. Transparency spreads by example.
5. Celebrate human-AI collaboration.
   Emphasize that AI is a tool, not a threat. True professionalism lies in using it responsibly.

A Culture of Trust

Through these small actions, we turn transparency from a personal choice into an organizational habit.

If you are a project manager, you already have what it takes to lead this transformation. You understand systems, you manage change, and you value integrity.

By doing this, you are not just being transparent. You are building a culture of trust, one that will define the future of the project management profession.

The next generation of leaders will not be judged by how perfectly they hide AI, but by how openly and ethically they use it. AI will not replace project managers, because in the end, technology can automate tasks, but only humans can build trust.

Let us make that our differentiator. Let us ensure that in a world filled with artificial voices, ours remains authentic, credible, and human.

Paolo Alagna
Director of Professional Development, PMI Belgium Chapter
professional.development@pmi-belgium.be

This article was originally published on ProjectAbility and is republished here with permission from the author.

This article is a recap of a post by Pierre Le Manh, President and CEO of PMI. You can read the original post on LinkedIn.

The upcoming PMBOK® Guide – Eighth Edition is generating excitement across the global project management community. With its official release just around the corner, many professionals are curious about what’s new and how it refines our shared standard of practice.

According to our President, PMBOK 8, the new version of the “Codex” of our profession, will be unveiled in just a few days at the PMI Global Summit in Phoenix. It is exciting news for project professionals worldwide.

Before the official launch, Pierre shared a preview (pages 255 to 259) after seeing early reactions on LinkedIn to the recently released table of contents. Some comments had described PMBOK 8 as a “mix of 6 and 7,” which he clarified is a misunderstanding. His goal was to offer transparency so that our community can understand why this edition was created and form its own opinion once the full version is available.

A global, evidence-based effort

The 8th edition was built through four research phases involving thousands of practitioners around the world:

• Qualitative sessions across seven countries
• 3,400 responses to a survey about PMBOK 7
• 9,000 public comments on the draft Guide during the first open consultation
• 3,900 additional comments during the second consultation on the Standard

It is the most community-driven PMBOK ever produced.

What the preview shows

1. PMBOK 8 builds on PMBOK 7 and is not a “rollback.”
   PMBOK 8 maintains the principles and performance domain foundation of PMBOK 7 but simplifies and clarifies them to make them more actionable and to remove overlaps. It places greater emphasis on value, sustainability, AI, and quality integration, and defines project success as when value exceeds effort and expense.
2. Processes are right-sized and integrated.
   The five traditional process groups and 49 processes were never gone; they had been separated from PMBOK 7 and published independently. In the 8th edition, they return as flexible, non-prescriptive anchors that support both predictive and agile approaches and strengthen the link with performance domains. Inputs, Outputs, and Tools & Techniques are listed alphabetically, promoting clarity across various delivery approaches.
3. PMBOK 8 connects the “why,” “what,” and “when.”
   The new structure connects principles (why), domains (what), and focus areas (when) into a single, coherent system for value delivery.

What’s next

The PMBOK 8th Edition will be unveiled at the PMI Global Summitin Phoenix and simultaneously made available on pmi.org on the opening day. It is expected to spark inspiring discussions about how we define project success and continue elevating our profession.

Stay tuned, the PMBOK 8th Edition is almost here.

Tim Gaens
Director of Membership, PMI Belgium Chapter
membership@pmi-belgium.be

During my years in consultancy, I grew from Project Manager to Project Integration Leader, and eventually to Project Management Office (PMO) Lead. I became increasingly fascinated by helping organizations establish and optimize their PMOs. After all, the core question is always: what does the client want to achieve with their PMO? Just as there are different levels of project managers, PMOs also operate at varying levels of maturity and strategic influence.

A Collaboration with PwC

When I became President of the PMI Belgium Chapter, I never expected that PwC would reach out to collaborate on a white paper about the future of the Project Management Office. Our connection started at the GSK Event, R&D PPM Cross-sharing & Development Day. Shortly after, we had a follow-up call to set the timeline and define the approach. The concept of the white paper was presented, along with a list of thought-provoking questions for me to reflect on.

These questions were both challenging and inspiring. They made me consider how PMOs will evolve within organizations, especially with the growing influence of artificial intelligence. To gain deeper insights, I discussed the topic with fellow PMO professionals, exploring different perspectives on how the role might transform in the years ahead. Eventually, the interview took place via Teams, with a marketing specialist and a professional writer, who skillfully transformed my insights into clear and compelling language.

From Belgium to a Global Audience

These insights were brought together in a five-page report on the future of the Project Management Office. Once the report was finalized, the next question naturally arose: how would it be distributed? PwC decided to share the white paper across its global network. That’s when it truly hit me: this was not just a Belgian initiative; it would be distributed worldwide.

Adding to the excitement, a PwC representative was also set to host a workshop at the PMI BeNeLux Summit 2025, where the white paper would be discussed. I felt deeply honored to see our collaboration reach such a broad and international audience.

Looking Ahead: The PMO BeNeLux Awards

This partnership marks the first step in a series of upcoming initiatives with PwC, including the launch of the PMO BeNeLux Awards. While the PMI PMO Awards already exists at the international level, this new award brings the recognition closer to home, celebrating excellence in PMO across the Benelux region.

The project will be led by Asier Eibar, a passionate PMO professional and jury member of the PMI PMO Awards, together with Paolo Alagna, our Director of Professional Development at the chapter.

But first, I invite you to explore the white paper and discover the key insights shaping the future of the PMO.

Anja Vandenbergh, PMP
President, PMI Belgium Chapter
president@pmi-belgium.be

October is a month of paradox and transition. Its name, derived from the Latin octo meaning “eight,” recalls its place in the ancient Roman calendar. Yet today, it is the tenth month, symbolizing completion and renewal. Ten closes one cycle and opens the next, reminding us that every ending is also a beginning.

In the Northern Hemisphere, October marks the start of autumn, a time of harvest and reflection. In the South, it signals spring’s arrival, bringing renewal and growth. In both, October embodies transition, a bridge between cycles of life and work.

This reminds us that projects, like seasons, follow rhythms of completion and preparation for what comes next.

The Ten Keys of the Great Project

Long ago, the Council of Builders spoke of Ten Keys guiding every project from dream to delivery. After a storm, a young leader, Mira, set out to recover them:

1. Vision (Scope): a crystal scroll, clarity of purpose.
2. Stakeholders: a hall of mirrors, every voice matters.
3. Time (Schedule): a golden sundial, milestones give direction.
4. Resources (Budget): scales of balance, allocate wisely.
5. Risk: a shard of lightning, anticipate storms before they strike.
6. Quality: a polished diamond, endure and serve, not just finish.
7. Communication: a silver bell, clarity and connection for all.
8. Change: a flowing river, plans must adapt.
9. Leadership: a lantern of fire, guidance is light, not command.
10. Closure & Celebration: a circle of lessons, share knowledge and honour success.

Mira returned with the Ten Keys, and the city grew stronger. From then on, projects were seen not just as tasks but as cycles of wholeness.

Reflection on the Ten Keys

In project management, this resonates deeply. Every initiative benefit from reflection and closure. Just as October bridges one season to the next, the end of a project bridges past effort with future success.

The Ten Knowledge Areas

The PMBOK® Guide identifies Ten Knowledge Areas: scope, schedule, cost, quality, risk, resources, procurement, communications, stakeholder management, and integration. Each is like a key. Together, they form a framework for guiding teams, balancing constraints, and ensuring lasting outcomes.

Just as the number 10 symbolizes wholeness, these ten areas remind us that projects are more than deliverables. They are cycles of vision, effort, and renewal. Mastering them allows project leaders to deliver results while carrying wisdom forward into the next endeavour.

Anja Vandenbergh, PMP
President, PMI Belgium Chapter
president@pmi-belgium.be

The countdown is officially on.

In just a few days, project leaders, innovators, and AI enthusiasts from across the region will gather for the PMI BeNeLux Summit 2025: a full-day experience built around the theme Project Management in the AI Era: Bridging Precision, Creativity, and Innovation.

Everything is ready

The agenda is confirmed, speakers are prepared, and every detail has been refined. We look forward to welcoming you in person in Maastricht.

Why you should join

Learn what’s next. Fast.

Three curated tracks (Pioneer, Master, Innovator) let you choose sessions that match your experience level and professional goals.

Get bold ideas and practical tools.

From hands-on AI workflows to human-centered  leadership, you’ll leave with actionable playbooks you can apply immediately, plus PDUs to claim.

Challenge your perspective.

A high-energy live panel featuring top industry voices will explore the future of project management in the AI era.

Explore the details

• View the full program
• Meet the keynotes and workshop speakers

When and where

• 10 October 2025
• MECC Maastricht, Forum 100, 6229 GV Maastricht
  (Easily accessible venue, full-day learning, and valuable networking opportunities.)

Partners making it possible

A big thank-you to our partners and sponsors:

Registration

Group registrations are available with discounts for companies registering multiple employees. PMI Belgium members also enjoy an exclusive reduced rate.

Full details, including how to apply the discount and arrange group registrations, are available on the official registration information page.

Join us on 10 October in Maastricht and be part of the future of project management. Register now.

Slim Kchaou
Director of Events, PMI Belgium Chapter
events@pmi-belgium.be

PMI is evolving, and with this evolution comes a new membership model built to strengthen the connection between our global network and local chapters.

At the heart of this transition is a commitment to deliver more value and connection for every PMI member.

By moving to a unified membership model, where PMI® membership and chapter membership are seamlessly combined, we are strengthening the connection between local expertise and global resources.

As a result, more members will join local chapter communities, creating richer opportunities for collaboration, learning, and networking.

Highlights of the Benefits

Simplified access

No need to manage separate memberships anymore.

PMI and chapter memberships are now combined in one seamless experience.

Maximized network

Access a broader professional network, locally and globally, creating more opportunities for collaboration, mentorship, and career growth.

Enhanced member experience

With this unified structure, chapters can focus on delivering more exclusive, high-quality events and programs for members.

Diverse industry connections

Connect with professionals from a wider range of industries to expand your perspective and opportunities.

Local expertise, global insights

Experience the best of both worlds, local chapter expertise and PMI’s global thought leadership, with access to hands-on engagement and the latest industry trends.

What This Means for PMI Belgium Members

Automatic inclusion

Current PMI Global-only members residing in Belgium will automatically become members of the PMI Belgium Chapter.

Residence-based affiliation in 2026

For the first year of the new model, members living in Belgium (even if currently part of another chapter) will be affiliated with PMI Belgium. Meanwhile, PMI Belgium members residing abroad will transition to their local chapter.

Future flexibility from 2027

PMI plans to give members the freedom to join any chapter, regardless of where they live. We will keep you informed as this develops.

No fee increases

Membership fees remain unchanged. Current PMI Global and PMI Belgium members will pay the same amount next year as this year.

Pierre Van de Leemput
Vice President, PMI Belgium Chapter
vice.president@pmi-belgium.be

Tactical or Strategic?

At first glance, it might sound like a textbook debate. But in practice, this choice determines whether a PMO is simply tolerated or truly valued.

Across Europe, I keep seeing the same pattern repeat:

• PMOs are full of smart, dedicated people producing high-quality reports, templates, and dashboards.
• Yet when you ask executives what the PMO truly stands for, the room often goes quiet.

It is as if many PMOs have forgotten the key that lets them step outside their office. They stay busy inside (tracking, controlling, reporting) while the strategic conversation happens elsewhere.

When the Key Is Missing

I once sat in a governance meeting where executives were introduced to a PMO reporting template for the very first time. The document itself was fine: clear, structured, even visually polished. The process behind it was not the issue either.

But the reaction in the room told the real story: surprise. Why? Because the executives had never been involved in shaping that framework. To them, it arrived out of nowhere, like a foreign object suddenly dropped on the table.

The problem was not reporting. The problem was that the PMO had not shown up at the right table, at the right time. Without that, even the best template becomes just paper.

Why PMOs Stay Locked Inside

Most PMOs operate tactically: visibility, compliance, control. These are important, but they are not enough.

Strategy requires stepping outside and asking uncomfortable, high-value questions such as:

• Which projects should we cancel, not just track?
• How do we frame benefits in terms executives actually care about, like customer trust or political positioning?
• Which risks threaten reputation or stakeholder confidence, not just the budget line?

If the PMO does not take on this role, someone else will. And when that happens, the PMO risks being perceived as an administrative layer rather than a strategic partner.

Why This Matters Now

Today’s business environment makes this debate more urgent than ever:

• Transformation pressure: Digitalization, AI, and sustainability are reshaping portfolios at record speed. If PMOs remain stuck in reporting mode, they will miss their chance to guide the change.
• Executive expectations: Leaders want clarity and alignment, not another spreadsheet. They expect partners who can simplify complexity and help them make tough calls.
• Talent at stake: Many PMOs are staffed with brilliant professionals. If their role is reduced to filling in templates, frustration and attrition are inevitable.

The real tragedy is not lack of talent. It is a lack of courage to step out.

Three Ways to Unlock the Door

1. Speak benefits, not outputs.
   Executives do not worry about how many templates were submitted. They care about impact. Instead of “20 active projects,” say “€X million in value delivered, Y% customer satisfaction improved, or Z tons of CO₂ reduced.”
2. Host the uncomfortable conversations.
   Alignment does not happen by itself. If executives disagree on priorities, the PMO has the legitimacy to put alignment on the agenda. Not by dictating choices, but by facilitating the discussion nobody else dares to host.
3. Keep it simple.
   Sponsors do not want SPI curves or ten-slide dashboards. They want to know: are we on track or not? Simplicity does not mean superficiality. It means filtering the noise and presenting a message that sticks.

What Good Looks Like

The most effective PMOs I have encountered do not hide behind processes. They shape the portfolio by:

• Highlighting which projects no longer create value.
• Translating technical outcomes into business impact.
• Ensuring executives face risks before they become crises.

These PMOs do not just manage projects. They create trust at the top table. They remind leadership not only what the organization is doing, but why it matters.

Final Thought

The PMO talent pool is not the issue. Most offices are full of skilled, committed people. The real challenge is remembering that the door was never locked. The key has always been in our hands.

So, here is my question to the Belgian and European PMI community:
Are we ready for PMOs that act as strategic partners to leadership, or will we keep shaking the door handle, forgetting that we already hold the key?

Asier Eibar
Professional Development Team, PMI Belgium Chapter

It is almost the end of my mandate on the Board, and I would like to share my experience as a volunteer. Perhaps it will inspire some of you to take on a role yourselves. Volunteering is a rewarding experience.

I first discovered PMI Belgium in 2012 during an Open Chapter Event where non-members were invited to explore our community. Soon after, I was enrolled as team leader for the partner program of the BeNeLux Day, which took place in Transinne, with the partner program held at the Grottes de Han.

From there, I stayed engaged with annual events such as BeNeLux Day and later PMFair. I also organized other initiatives like New Year Events and Chapter Events. What I enjoyed most was the cohesion created within the volunteer group. It was rewarding and fun.

After a few years, I felt ready to join the Board. I applied for the role of Project Manager of the PMFair and, in 2018, I became the Director of Events and PMFair for two years. It was an enriching experience working with volunteers. The work was heavy at times, but we did it with a smile, good team spirit, and mutual support.

During that time, I was also regularly in contact with sponsors. This encouraged me to apply for the role of Director of Sponsorship. It was not an easy task, especially during the period of COVID and economic recession.

For me, the next step was clear: to become President. I was honored to be the first woman to serve as President of the Belgium Chapter and to conclude my mandate in style with a PMFair celebrating the 25th anniversary of the Chapter in 2023.

Attention Points as a Volunteer

In our lives, we juggle jobs, families, and volunteer activities within PMI. The challenge lies in managing these constraints. Before committing, ask yourself four questions:

• Scope: What do I want to do as a volunteer?
• Time: How much of my time can I dedicate to this activity?
• Cost: How will this influence my job?
• Quality: What will be the impact on my family life?

What I Gained from this Experience

During these 13 years as a volunteer, I met many people from different sectors and countries, all sharing the same passion for project management. I was inspired by the many interactions with members, including international members, and I enjoyed sharing my experience with motivated volunteers who discovered how the Belgium Chapter functions. I also learned a great deal.

I had the opportunity to combine my two passions: project management and events. I made great friends, expanded my professional knowledge (I am a PMO), and developed my soft skills. I used to be very shy and had no experience speaking in public, but volunteering pushed me to overcome that. You cannot say no when you must speak in front of 250 people at a PMFair or during a Region 8 Meeting.

For me, team spirit was always important within the Board and within the PMFair team. When you pay attention to people’s well-being, you can create synergy and good vibes.

I would like to thank the past presidents who supported me during my mandate and shared their experience. I would also like to thank my fellow board members, the volunteers I met along the way, and, of course, all the members who trusted me, shared their ideas, gave feedback, and joined us at networking events.

Feel free to contact me if you have any questions.

Take care,

Christine Dassy
Past President 2024–2025, PMI Belgium Chapter
past.president@pmi-belgium.be

Project management in 2025 is marked by rapid adoption of new technologies, evolving work models, and an increased emphasis on sustainability and people-centered leadership.

As  a program and project manager working in Belgium, I see the following trends shaping our profession today:

Digital Transformation and AI

AI-driven tools are transforming planning, execution, and decision-making. Predictive analytics, automation of admin  tasks, and real-time dashboards are increasingly replacing spreadsheets for progress and risk monitoring.

Evolving Methodologies and Hybrid Work

Hybrid approaches that blend agile and traditional methods are now the standard, tailored to the needs of each project.  Remote and hybrid work models require strong digital communication skills and flexible management practices.

ESG and Sustainability Focus

Environmental, social, and governance (ESG) criteria are now central to project planning. Projects aim not only to deliver value but also to minimize environmental impact and strengthen responsible business practices, reflecting the greater reality of cross-team / department projects that create a smoother roll out of projects, bigger successes and innovative solutions, thus broadening the companies' horizons.

Power Skills and Leadership

Complexity = a need for a stronger skill set which can be translated into the demand for emotional intelligence, stakeholder communication, and resilience. Leaders are expected to and evaluated on their ability to foster adaptability, purpose, and well-being within their teams.

All of these themes will be explored at the upcoming PMI BeNeLux Summit 2025 in Maastricht on October 10, and I strongly encourage you to join us there.

PMBOK Guide and the Future of PMI Certification

The PMBOK Guide is also undergoing significant change in its upcoming 8th Edition (expected in December 2025). These updates aim to make the guide more practical, flexible, and aligned with today’s project environment. Highlights include:

1. Return to Processes: Around 40 key processes reintroduced, updated for contemporary practice.
2. Streamlined Principles: Reduced to six for clarity and daily use.
3. AI, Agile, and Hybrid Guidance: New sections on digital tools and ethical considerations.
4. Sustainability and Value Delivery: Making benefits and long-term value central.
5. Flexible Practices: Greater emphasis on adaptability to context.
6. Focus on People and Teams: Diversity, well-being, and resilience integrated into the guide.
7. Technology Integration: Predictive analytics and automation reflected in the guidance.

Thank you to all the PMs who took the time to their perspectives and experiences and therefore actively supported the creation of PMBOK 8^th edition, that will shape and positively impact the work of PMs on a global scale.

Piotr Zamisnii
Director of Sponsorship, PMI Belgium Chapter
sponsorship@pmi-belgium.be

In 1985, Coca-Cola made a bold move: replacing its classic formula with New Coke. Research showed consumers preferred the new flavour in blind taste tests. Timelines were met, targets achieved, and marketing investment was strong.

Yet when the product hit the shelves, an emotional backlash took over. Within weeks, the company received more than 40,000 angry phone calls, protests erupted in the streets, and the media labelled it “one of the greatest corporate disasters in history.” Coca-Cola had to quickly reinstate the original formula as Coca-Cola Classic.

The hard lesson: decisions based only on rational data fail when they ignore human emotions. And this happens not just with products.  According to PMI, 37% of projects fail due to a lack of emotional alignment and engagement among stakeholders. It is no coincidence that the PMP® certification now places people and interactions at the core of its competency model.

In a world where change has become the new stability, projects cannot rely only on planning. Project managers must look beyond tasks and metrics to understand how emotions and narratives shape decisions, commitment, and outcomes.

Projects are not just about what you deliver. They are about how you make people feel along the way.

Why Emotions Matter in Projects

The role of a project manager goes far beyond managing tasks and tracking performance indicators. It is about people and connections. Neuroscience shows us why: emotions decide first, reason justifies later.

As Antonio Damasio wrote in Descartes’ Error:
“We are not thinking machines that feel; we are feeling machines that think.”

To truly move people, be it  stakeholders, teams, or clients, you must first speak their emotional language and then their rational one.

Harvard Business Review found that 90% of human decisions are driven by emotions. This means even the most technically perfect presentation can fail if it does not evoke feelings. The most effective strategy for buy-in is to  spark positive emotions before presenting the numbers.

Storytelling That Connects

If emotions are the fuel, storytelling is the road. Projects without a clear narrative often appear like just another routine corporate task.

Neuroeconomist Paul Zak explains:
“Well-crafted stories release oxytocin, the empathy hormone, fostering emotional connection and building trust.”

A simple example:

• Technical approach: “We are implementing a new system to optimize processes and reduce costs by 15%.”
• Emotional approach: “Every day, our team loses hours to rework and system failures. This project gives that time back to people, so they can innovate and create better experiences for our customers.”

The message is the same, but the second sparks empathy and inspires action.

Emotional Design: The Silent Language of Engagement

If emotions drive decisions and storytelling gives meaning, emotional design is the silent language that builds trust before a single word is spoken.

Research by the Nielsen Norman Group shows that people form an opinion in less than 50 milliseconds, based purely on appearance.

In project management, design is not about aesthetics. It is a strategic tool. Clear dashboards, structured presentations, and consistent branding convey credibility and make information easier to understand.

An Invitation to Transformation

Project leaders hold the power to shape cultures and inspire real change. More than delivering products, a project manager provides emotional experiences, connecting people and transforming journeys.

Successful projects are measured not only by results, but by the emotional impact they leave on teams, stakeholders, and communities.

The real choice for leaders: will you simply manage tasks, or will you also engage hearts? 

Jana Nastari
Associate Director of Marketing & Communication, PMI Belgium Chapter
marketing@pmi-belgium.be

Further Reading

• Kahneman, D. (2011). Thinking, Fast and Slow.
• Damasio, A. (1994). Descartes' Error.
• Zak, P. (2012). The Moral Molecule.
• Brown, T. (2009). Change by Design.
• PMI (2025). Pulse of the Profession Report.
• Hall, J. (2016). Why Good Leaders Make Bad Decisions. Harvard Business Review.
• Nielsen Norman Group (2011). First Impressions Matter.
• Andrivet, M. (2025). The Branding Journal: New Coke Case Study.

This summer, Homeless Entrepreneur delivered its most ambitious project yet: The Great Walk, a journey of more than one million steps for over one million homeless people in Europe. The impact went beyond metrics fostering cross-border collaboration, strengthening community capacity, and establishing a scalable, replicable governance model.

Stakeholder and Governance Context

Primary stakeholders included beneficiaries (people experiencing homelessness), volunteers, and 11 PMI chapters worldwide, with PMI Belgium proud to be among the supporting chapters. More than 100 stakeholders contributed to making this initiative a success.

A lightweight governance backbone, including a steering group, weekly meetings (in person and online), and a shared collaboration toolkit (WhatsApp, email, Google Docs), enabled fast decision-making, transparent progress tracking, and proactive risk mitigation.

A stakeholder map helped balance the voices of beneficiaries, sponsor expectations, and volunteer engagement across multiple countries.

Qualitative Outcomes and Beneficiary Voices

Beyond the milestone of one million steps, the journey delivered outcomes that reflect real-world benefits, stronger community capability, and expanded social capital:

• Beneficiaries and communities described a renewed sense of belonging and purpose: “The Great Walk reminded me how important human contact and connectivity is.”
• Volunteers reported enhanced cross-cultural collaboration and leadership development: “Weekly meetings and the shared docs transformed volunteer energy into coordinated momentum.”
• PMI chapter partners valued the learning loop: “We saw real gains in stakeholder engagement and rapid adaptation to changing conditions.”

Continuing the Story

PMI Belgium has been proud to support and report on The Great Walk throughout its journey. From its launch in June, through the updates we shared in July and September, our community has followed and amplified the initiative’s progress. This final article closes the loop by reflecting on lessons and impact, while pointing toward the future.

Lessons Learned and Risk Management

Key lessons emerged through a structured risk and leadership lens:

• Governance and decision rights enabled timely pivots when weather and logistics posed challenges, reducing rework and keeping momentum
• Communication channels (WhatsApp, email, Google Docs) supported multi-time-zone collaboration yet revealed the need for a clearer escalation path and a central issue tracker.
• Community engagement required flexibility with beneficiaries. In some cases, additional time for trust-building yielded deeper participation and sustainability, even when it delayed arrival times.

Benefits Realization

The non-monetary benefits were substantial:

• Capacity building: Local chapters demonstrated enhanced capabilities in resource mobilization and volunteer coordination for future projects.
• Social capital: Networks among volunteers, beneficiaries, and partners grew stronger, enabling long-term collaboration.
• Brand and mission alignment: Homeless Entrepreneur and PMI chapters strengthened their alignment, fueling advocacy and program expansion.

Next Steps and Call to Action

The Great Walk is just the beginning. Your support through donations, volunteering, and network access helps scale not just the logistics of a walk, but the empowerment and connection it creates.

If you would like to contribute stories, case studies, or interview-ready material, please reach out.

Voices from the Journey

• Beneficiary: “Receiving a hug was like getting Christmas and birthday presents for the next 10 years.”
• Volunteer reflection: “Planning events in Germany helped connect us with new stakeholders while strengthening our relationship and creating future volunteering and fundraising opportunities.” — Andrew Funk, Founder and President, Homeless Entrepreneur

Andrew Funk
President and Founder, Homeless Entrepreneur

September has always been a month of quiet transformation. The lingering warmth of summer softens into the crisp freshness of autumn, golden light stretching across the days, while evenings invite reflection and comfort. It’s a season of balance, a gentle reminder that change doesn’t have to be abrupt. It can arrive softly, step by step, like the turning of leaves from green to amber, crimson, and gold.

Evolving Membership

This September, our journey takes on new meaning. We’re introducing a new membership model designed to bring more value, flexibility, and connection to our community. Every new feature and added benefit is a step toward strengthening the bonds that make our community thrive. It’s not just a structural change; it’s an invitation to grow together, to step into this new chapter with energy and purpose.

Walking for Awareness

Looking back, August set the tone for this journey. The Great Walk, led by Andrew Funk and Toby Plüss, was more than a physical challenge: it was a movement of solidarity. Together, participants walked 1 million steps — one for every homeless person in Europe. Each step symbolized awareness, empowerment, and hope.

Through this initiative, we demonstrated that project management is more than planning and execution. It is a tool for uplifting skills, fostering resilience, and creating meaningful impact in people’s lives. The walk reminded us that even the smallest step, taken with intention, can ripple outward to create real change.

The BeNeLux Summit 2025

Now, about a month away, our eyes turn to the PMI BeNeLux Summit 2025, happening October 10 at MECC Maastricht. With the theme “Project Management in the AI Era: Bridging Precision, Creativity, and Innovation,” the summit will gather minds and hearts ready to explore how AI can enhance our work while keeping the human touch central.

From the Pioneer to Innovator tracks, and with keynote speaker Christian Kromme, futurist and author of Humanification – Go Digital, participants will uncover how empathy, creativity, and strategic thinking remain irreplaceable, even in a world transformed by technology.

Preparing for the Future

September also marks an important step in our organizational journey: preparations for the 2026–2027 Board Elections. This is your opportunity to confirm the current leadership while also giving your voice to shape the future of our chapter.

It’s a time to reflect on leadership, engage with fellow members, and ensure our community continues to grow, innovate, and thrive. Your participation is vital. It is through your input that we can chart the course for the next chapter of our collective journey.

Closing Thoughts

September, then, is more than a month: it’s a journey. From walking 1 million steps for awareness, to evolving our membership, to preparing for the next chapter of leadership, to gathering at the Summit to explore the future of project management, each moment is an opportunity to connect, learn, and lead with purpose.

This season, let us embrace transformation. Let us walk, reflect, and step boldly into new beginnings. Together, we innovate. Together, we empower. Together, we create lasting impact.

With smiling greetings,

Anja Vandenbergh, PMP
President, PMI Belgium Chapter

On October 10, 2025, project professionals from across the region will gather in Maastricht for the PMI BeNeLux Summit — a full day of inspiration, learning, and networking.

What to expect

• World-class keynotes
  From futurist Christian Kromme on AI and disruption, to Christina Sejr Pedersen on people + technology, and Bart Briers on the hybrid future of project management.
• Tracks for every career stage
  Whether you’re starting out, sharpening your leadership, or leading transformation at scale, the Pioneer, Master, and Innovator workshops are designed for you.
• Essential perspectives
  AI in practice, sustainability, human-centered leadership, emotional intelligence, and the skills you need to thrive in tomorrow’s project economy.
• Network & community
  Meet peers, experts, and leaders who are shaping the future of our profession.
• Discover our partners’ solutions
  Thanks to the support of our partners: cplace, threon, itdesign, cleopatra, ALVISSION Education, Suzan Haenen Consulting, QRP International and The Bayard Partnership.

Warm-up with PM Untold🎧 

Can’t wait until October? Tune into the next episode of PM Untold, out on September 4, where Anja Vandenbergh, President of PMI Belgium, sits down with Pat Lucey, Chair of the PMI Governance Committee and a Summit speaker. Together, they reflect on Pat’s career journey, compare project management and entrepreneurship, highlight the value of volunteering in PMI chapters, and share insights on the future of our profession. A perfect prelude to the Summit.

Full agenda, speaker details, and registration are available on the Summit website.

Join us in Maastricht and shape the future of project management. Secure your spot today!

See you at the Summit in Maastricht on October 10!

Edi Venturin
Director of Marketing & Communication, PMI Belgium Chapter

Tim Gaens
Director of Membership, PMI Belgium Chapter

P.S. Did you read this far?

As a little thank-you for your attention: the first two people to contact me (Edi) through the link on my name above will get 10% off their Summit ticket.

In this special episode ahead of the PMI BeNeLux Summit 2025, Anja Vandenbergh, President of PMI Belgium, sits down with Pat Lucey — PMI Global Board Director, entrepreneur, and project manager — to reflect on his career journey and share practical insights for today’s professionals.

The conversation explores

• Project management vs. entrepreneurship
• The value of volunteering and networking in PMI
• Guidance for the next generation of project managers
• AI’s impact on the profession
• The human dimension in an AI-driven era
• Embedding sustainability in project management

Whether you’re just starting your career or already leading complex projects, this conversation offers valuable perspectives to inspire your professional journey.

🎧 Listen now at pmi-belgium.be/podcast

On September 2, 2025, during our latest Lunch & Learn webinar, PMI Belgium had the opportunity to connect with VDAB and learn more about the valuable work our volunteers are doing there.

VDAB shared their mission and working principles: how they support unemployed people in finding new opportunities, and how they help employers connect with talent. Through guidance, training, and job placement, VDAB plays a vital role in bridging skills and careers.

PMI Belgium’s Contribution: A Practical Workshop

PMI Belgium developed an online workshop spread over three evenings, introducing participants to the fundamentals of project management.

• The course explains the main steps of a project: Initiation, Planning, Execution, Monitoring & Controlling, and Close-out.
• The storyline “Celebrating 1000 Years of Happy Town” gives students a playful but practical exercise to apply the theory.
• By the end of the course, participants gain a clear understanding of what project management is and can reflect on whether this could be their new professional path. Those who wish to go further can continue with advanced training offered by specialist companies.

Volunteer Opportunities

We are now looking for volunteers to support and grow this initiative:

• VDAB Coordinator: manage the partnership, oversee scheduling and instructors, liaise with VDAB, and ensure smooth program delivery.
• Project Management Trainer: deliver our online project management basics course (three evenings per group), with assistant support and pre-training provided.

Because this program is delivered in collaboration with VDAB and aimed at job seekers in Flanders, strong knowledge of Flemish/Dutch is essential for both roles.

For an overview of these and other open roles, visit our Volunteer Opportunities page.

By volunteering, you not only contribute to empowering job seekers but also gain valuable experience, expand your network, and strengthen PMI Belgium’s role in society.

Geert Cloostermans
Director of Academic & Educational Outreach NL, PMI Belgium Chapter

First of all, I’d like to thank the PMI Belgium Chapter for supporting us and including The Great Walk in their newsletter.

This summer, Homeless Entrepreneur achieved its biggest project ever: The Great Walk, a journey of over one million steps for more than one million homeless people in Europe. What made it truly extraordinary was the support of 11 PMI chapters worldwide, who shared their expertise, energy, and commitment to empower people made of potential.

About The Great Walk

Carrying our Great Walk flag, we crossed Austria, Germany, The Netherlands, Belgium, and Spain.

The project brought together volunteers, raised funds, and connected with new communities — both with and without housing. There were many unknowns, yet thanks to collaboration and project management discipline, challenges became opportunities and the project scaled beyond our expectations.

With Toby Plüss, Director of The Great Walk, we held weekly meetings in person and online, while coordinating seamlessly via WhatsApp, email, and Google Docs. The result: a scalable framework that can be replicated in future walks.

The Role of PMI Chapters

The support from PMI chapters was vital:

• PMI Switzerland brought ceaseless energy and leadership;
• PMI Romania provided omnipresent support;
• PMI Portugal thrilled us by joining for the first time;
• PMI Santiago, Chile and PMI Sidney, Australia embodied the spirit of Project Managers Without Borders as the first chapters outside the EU to back us;
• PMI Barcelona, Spain offered a strong framework for the second year in a row.

Along the way:

• PMI Germany welcomed us with traditional cuisine and project insights;
• With PMI Netherlands, we shared the stage with members at PSV Eindhoven stadium;
• On the August 15 public holiday, Toby walked from Antwerp to Brussels with Edi, a PMI Belgium board member, who also supported us during the Heat Aid Campaign in Brussels that weekend;
• On Friday, August 29, I closed the final 7 km with Toby and PMI Madrid members, before celebrating together with tapas.

Reflections from the Journey

As I sit on a high-speed train heading home with my family, I feel a bittersweet smile. The memories of this journey, full of effort, warmth, and solidarity, will stay with me forever.

Everyone talks about teamwork, but after this experience, I’ve coined a new word: communitywork.

The Great Walk showed how project management can unite people made of potential, empowering them to overcome homelessness and create lasting impact.

How You Can Support

The Great Walk is only the beginning. You can help us continue:

• Donate: support The Great Walk
• Volunteer: join Homeless Entrepreneur
• Provide network access: email me at funk@homelessentrepreneur.org or contact me on WhatsApp: +34 697 877 089.

A huge hug from the Homeless Entrepreneur community,

Andrew Funk
Founder of Homeless Entrepreneur

Antonio Nieto-Rodriguez, former Chairman of PMI and later honored as a PMI Fellow, is also a past board member and current member of PMI Belgium. He is known for introducing the concept of the Project Economy and for his contributions to how organizations connect strategy with execution through projects. His frameworks such as the Hierarchy of Purpose, the Project Manifesto, and the Project Economy have been used worldwide to navigate complex transformations.

On November 3, 2025, Antonio will speak at the Harvard Business Review Future of Business 2025, an event that brings together global leaders to discuss strategy, transformation, and the role of projects in shaping the future of business.

For our profession, this participation is a reminder that project management is gaining visibility at the highest levels of leadership. While this is not a PMI Belgium event and no special conditions apply to our members, it reflects how the language and practice of project management are increasingly shaping global conversations.

Quick Q&A with Antonio

What empowered you to start your own business and become the CEO of your life?

He explained that after nearly two decades balancing a corporate career with teaching, writing, volunteering for PMI, and advising leaders, he felt a strong drive to dedicate himself fully to the Project Economy. The opportunity for full creative freedom, the chance to focus exclusively on meaningful transformation, and the ability to bring his vision to life gave him the confidence to take the leap.

What will you speak about?

He said that at the HBR event, he will share how organizations can lead with speed, focus, and impact in the Transformation Age, drawing on insights from Powered by Projects and real-world examples of project-driven success.

What advice would you give our members?

He advised pursuing a two-track career: one that provides stability and one that feeds passion. Setting ambitious goals, even those that may feel impossible at first, can open new opportunities. For him, two such goals were becoming Global Chairman of PMI and publishing in Harvard Business Review. Both once felt like “crazy dreams” but became reality through persistence and the right mindset.

Closing Note

This presence at the HBR Future of Business 2025 highlights how project management is increasingly recognized as a driver of transformation in global leadership discussions.

Anja Vandenbergh
President, PMI Belgium Chapter

At PMI Belgium, our credo “By the members, for the members” reflects how much we rely on our local community to deliver meaningful initiatives and networking events. These activities help you grow as an individual while fostering collective growth through knowledge-sharing and experience.

The time and effort invested by our volunteers is a critical contribution to our success. Yet, as with any organization, it is equally important to maintain a healthy financial foundation.

Our Foundation

Your annual membership contributions form a crucial part of our stability. But it is through company sponsorship agreements that we can expand our reach and offer even greater value to every member.

The Value of Sponsorship

Sponsorship is not just support: it’s a partnership. For organizations, it means:

• Connecting with a vibrant community of project management professionals.
• Enhancing brand awareness and reputation in the field.
• Accessing knowledge and expertise for talent development and acquisition.
• Gaining opportunities for employees to be mentored by our project management specialists through the expanded mentorship program.

How You Can Help

Let’s shape the future together! How can we support each other? As members who know the landscape so well, we’d love to hear your insights and ideas.

• Do you know organizations that could be great sponsors or partners for PMI Belgium?
• Do you have connections with companies that might benefit from more visibility in our community?
• Perhaps you see a win-win opportunity between an organization you know and PMI Belgium.

Share your thoughts. We’re listening!

You can email us at sponsorship@pmi-belgium.be, use our contact form, or talk to any of the board members during an upcoming event.

Your input is crucial in helping us identify partners who share our values and vision. By recommending potential sponsors, you play an active role in fortifying our association’s future and ensuring we can continue to deliver high-quality programs and services for all members. Together, we can build stronger connections and create even greater impact for our community.

The PMI Belgium Sponsorship team, with Gert Van Hoecke, Director of Volunteering

In today’s fast-moving professional world, mentorship is more than guidance — it’s a bridge between potential and performance, between curiosity and confidence. At PMI Belgium, that bridge is being rebuilt stronger than ever, thanks to the vision and drive of Maria Rôbè, the Chapter’s Mentoring Program Lead.

In this conversation, Maria shares how the program evolved from an idea into a thriving platform where mentors and mentees co-create value. From starting with “no playbook” to building a culture rooted in trust, ethics, and quality, her journey is an inspiring blueprint for anyone who believes that the best way to grow is to grow together.

The Origins of the Program

Could you tell us about your background and your connection to the PMI Belgium Chapter?

I’m an engineer by trade. Early in my career, living that build–test–learn rhythm, I realized the bigger bug wasn’t in the code: it was in the conversation. Business and tech were speaking past each other. Over time, I found my strength: building the bridge between business intent and technical reality so teams can co-create real outcomes.

Some of my best lessons came from my parents’ small business: integrity is non-negotiable, customers are partners, and you deliver on what you promise. Those values still shape how I lead — people first, clarity over noise, and quality without shortcuts.

Volunteering has always been in my DNA, so joining the PMI Belgium Chapter felt natural. Being part of this community is more than an affiliation — it’s a responsibility to give back and raise the bar for our profession. When I stepped into my current role, there was no playbook for the mentoring program. No assets. No lessons learned. So we built it from scratch, thoughtfully and fast. Because mentorship, to me, is how we pass on language, ethics, and confidence between business and technology. That’s my “why.”

What motivated you to restart the Mentoring Program?

It wasn’t “just another project.” It was a promise I wished I’d had early in my career. I kept meeting brilliant people: career switchers, first-time PMs, and even seasoned leads, who didn’t need more theory; they needed a safe space, a shared language, and someone just a few steps ahead to walk with them.

At the same time, many senior professionals wanted to give back but lacked a simple, ethical structure to do it. Restarting the program, together with Paolo Alagna, our Director of Professional Development, was a way to turn goodwill into a system. We wanted to reduce “luck” as a career strategy and create durable assets (a handbook, a code of conduct, tools) and, most importantly, a culture where mentors grow as leaders and mentees accelerate with confidence.

Building the Foundation

Where did you start?

We began with a simple question: what promise are we making to our members, and what must be true to keep it? From that came our non-negotiables: simplicity, ethics, GDPR compliance, inclusivity, and alignment with PMI standards.

Then we built the backbone before the buzz: a clear handbook, a code of conduct, a mentoring agreement, and a matching process grounded in mentee goals and mentor strengths. With Paolo’s guidance, we recruited mentors deliberately: not just by title, but by mindset, coaching skills, and willingness to give back.

The plan is fixed, but the approach stays agile. We capture lessons learned, iterate on communication and matching, and improve the experience without moving the milestones. Listen first, set the guardrails, recruit the right mentors, and deliver a program people can actually use.

What made the biggest difference in the relaunch?

Two things stand out:

• Early sponsorship and collaboration. We aligned with leadership (Professional Development, Marketing & Communication) right away. That created shared ownership and cleared blockers so we could build quickly and well.
• Quality over quantity. We kept the first cohort intentionally small. Matching was driven by mentee goals, not “first come, first served.” Fewer, stronger pairings deliver better outcomes — and let us learn and iterate without losing trust.

From Project to Culture

What has been the most rewarding moment so far?

Seeing the shift from “a project to deliver” to “a culture we’re building.” You could feel it when mentors introduced themselves — the tone wasn’t about titles, but about service. That quiet shift, from curiosity to commitment, told us we were on the right path. We’re not just pairing people; we’re cultivating a community of leaders who co-create, lift others, and leave the profession better than they found it.

What makes PMI Belgium’s program stand out?

I wouldn’t say we’re unique by features; our neighbors run excellent programs. Where we stand apart is in how we show up. We start small, earn trust, and make confidentiality and quality non-negotiable.

The value is in the conversations. Mentees gain clarity and momentum. Mentors sharpen their leadership skills and discover new perspectives. And the Chapter grows a culture of stewardship.

We’re also practical. We’re rooted in Belgium but globally minded. We run the program in English now, but we’re building toward Dutch and French so people can learn in the language they work in. And we invest in the craft of mentoring, lightweight toolkits, peer exchange, and reflection, so mentors grow too.

Looking Ahead

What’s next for the program?

We’ll keep doing what works: high-quality matching, human connections, and continuous improvement. And we’ll expand access: multilingual sessions (EN/FR/NL), mentor toolkits, and eventually an alumni network so mentees can grow into mentors.

Our goal isn’t to grow fast; it’s to grow well. One excellent cohort at a time, until the PMI Belgium Mentorship Program is the most trusted reference in the country.

Advice for Future Mentors and Mentees

What advice would you give to someone unsure about joining?

Start small. If you’re a mentee, you don’t need perfect clarity — just curiosity and effort. If you’re a mentor, you don’t need to be “finished” to be useful. Bring your listening, your scars, your standards.

Give it two conversations. If you walk away with more clarity, more language, and one action you’re proud of, the program is working.

Paolo Alagna
Director of Professional Development, PMI Belgium

In this inspiring episode, we sit down with Sayma Kuipers — keynote speaker, trainer, entrepreneur, and LinkedIn Top Voice — to explore the true art of collaboration in project management.

Sayma shares her journey from working with children to focusing on team dynamics and effective collaboration in organizations.

The conversation explores:

• the key ingredients for successful collaboration,
• common misconceptions,
• the obstacles to collaboration in project management,
• the normalization of conflicts,
• the leadership in fostering a collaborative culture,
• the evolving nature of collaboration in the modern workplace.

Whether you’re leading a global project team or simply want to build stronger connections at work, this conversation is packed with actionable advice, real-world examples, and plenty of inspiration to help you turn collaboration into a genuine driver of success.

🎧 Listen now at pmi-belgium.be/podcast

A Global Milestone

On August 14th, the PMI Educational Foundation (PMIEF) hosted a global webinar to commemorate its 35th anniversary, reflecting on its evolution from “Project 202” in 1989 to a global force in youth empowerment through project management.

Ashley Forsyth, Executive Director of PMIEF, opened the session by honoring PMI’s founding legacy and Jim Snyder’s birthday, emphasizing PMIEF’s shift from higher education to youth-focused initiatives. Since 2019, PMIEF has strategically partnered with youth-serving nonprofits, empowering over 9.9 million young people worldwide and aligning its mission with UN SDG #4: Quality Education.

Achievements to Date

Andrew Whitmire, Manager of PMIEF, highlighted the foundation’s present achievements:

• Reaching over 3.4 million youth in 2024 alone.
• Providing more than USD 2.2 million in scholarships since 2010.
• Building partnerships with 18 global nonprofits, including recent additions like SkillsUSA and the New York Academy of Sciences.
• Launching the Skills for Life Virtual Toolkit, now enhanced with agile practices and AI prompts to support modern learning.

Inspiring Voices from the Panel

The panel featured inspiring perspectives:

• Aurio De la Cruz Salazar, PMI LATAM Volunteer Social Impact Lead, highlighted how project management can serve as a bridge between professionals and youth.
• Laura Jones, PMIEF Kerzner Award winner and Special Olympics International PMO lead, shared how project management skills empower inclusive communities.
• Apoorva Ganapathi, an 18-year-old youth ambassador, spoke passionately about how project management transformed their leadership mindset and personal growth.

Looking Ahead

PMIEF aims to:

• Deepen global impact, especially in regions like Sub-Saharan Africa.
• Expand scholarships and volunteer engagement.
• Promote the PM Skills for Life toolkit as a universal resource for youth education.

My Personal Reflections

As Director of Finance & Administration of PMI Belgium, an active Board Member, and a proud Volunteer for PMI Southern Italy Chapter supporting high school initiatives in collaboration with the Regional Government Department of Education, I am deeply moved and inspired by the incredible journey and impact of PMIEF.

Being a PMIEF supporter and contributor to the PM Skills for Life initiative has been one of the most fulfilling experiences of my professional and volunteer life. Witnessing how project management empowers youth to become confident, capable leaders is a testament to the power of education and community collaboration.

I am proud to be part of this transformative mission and look forward to continuing our work to elevate young minds and build a better future through project success.

The recording will be available soon on ProjectManagement.com.

Warm regards,

Giuseppe Di Maria
Director of Finance & Administration, PMI Belgium
Volunteer, PMI Southern Italy Chapter
PMIEF Supporter

Who doesn’t know this amazing song from Ella Fitzgerald? But what does summertime really mean?

Is it a moment to boost your energy for the final stretch toward the end of 2025? A time to enjoy quality moments with family? Or perhaps a space to read, reflect, and gain fresh ideas — to find inspiration or even answers to challenges you face in work and life?

I’m a great fan of reading books (real, paper books!). The curious thing is that I always seem to read two or three books at the same time. Why? How? Honestly, I don’t know. I’ve always done it. And inside my house, books tend to wander everywhere — except the kitchen. That space is reserved for another passion: getting lost in cooking and baking.

When I started my presidency of the chapter, I was reading Great Leaders Ask Great Questions by John C. Maxwell. From that book, I recognised the powerful reminder that leadership is a call to action.

So, what connects leadership with summertime?

Let me take you through the seasons. We all know that every season has a beginning and an end. They always come in sequence: spring follows winter, and autumn follows summer. There’s no control over the order in which they occur — and that in itself is part of the lesson.

Winter is the season for planning

A season of fresh starts — a time when visions take shape and dreams feel close. Winter invites us to look ahead, set bold goals, and shape new plans. Think of January: a turning point filled with ambition and the promise of growth.

Spring is the season for planting

It’s when winter’s ideas become actions. A time of vibrant effort — gathering seeds, preparing soil, planting with purpose. Energy and perseverance start turning dreams into momentum.

Summer is the season for perspiration

Now comes the hard part: cultivation. Nurturing, watering, and sustaining growth day by day. With patience and consistency, things begin to flourish — though the effort may not always be immediately visible.

Autumn is the season for harvest

For those who’ve followed the rhythm — who planned, planted, and persisted — it’s a time of reaping. But for others, the absence of preparation can lead to regret. The fall reminds us of missed opportunities and work left undone. Still, for those who stayed the course, it brings a sense of accomplishment.

The same holds true for the seasons of success. You cannot reap life’s rewards without first planting seeds. Every one of us is responsible for managing the seasons of our own life. There is a time for everything — and a season for every activity under the heavens.

Maybe that’s why some leaders succeed and others struggle: not for lack of determination, but because their efforts are out of sequence. When we act out of sync with the season we’re in, frustration and discouragement often follow.

But I believe strongly that everyone can reap a meaningful harvest, according to their ability — if they understand how to master each of the four seasons.

So, what is the connection between leadership and summertime?

In winter, many people dream of success. Some move forward by learning, growing, and taking action. These are the ones who “plant in spring” by reading books, subscribing to podcasts, or committing to conferences. These actions are seeds.

But too often, that’s where the effort ends. The book remains unread, the podcast unplayed, the ticket unused. The slow, sometimes tedious, yet always productive work of summer never gets done.

True leaders press on. They keep building, nurturing, and connecting — even when results are invisible, even when the work is harder than hoped. They invest in growth, relationships, and team spirit.

Summer is demanding. The days are long, and the to-do list is longer. But successful people understand that growth takes time — and they persist.

So wherever you are in your journey, try to act in harmony with the season you’re in. Give it your best. Don’t worry about immediate outcomes. If you respect the rhythm and commit to the work, the harvest will come.

With smiling greetings,

Anja Vandenbergh, PMP
President, PMI Belgium Chapter

On 29 July, The Great Walk began — a journey of over 1 million steps to raise awareness and support for the more than 1 million people experiencing homelessness across Europe. The initiative is bold, simple, and deeply human: walk, speak, share, and invite others to step in — through donations, solidarity, or action.

Here’s a glimpse into the first two days of this inspiring initiative:

Day 1: A Strong Start, A Hard Hit

The walk kicked off in Linz, Austria, heading toward Saxen. The team covered an astonishing 50 kilometers in one day — but not without challenges.
Early on, one of the support team members had a serious bicycle accident and was taken to hospital with two broken shoulders. It was a moment that reminded everyone that even with the best project preparation, life is unpredictable.

Despite the delay and the emotional shock, Andrew and Toby pushed on and completed the first leg. Exhausted but determined, they closed the day with a message of thanks and a call for continued support:
“There’s a reason it’s called The Great Walk.”

Day 2: Walking for Those Who Can’t

The second day began in the early morning hours — just after 6 a.m. — as the team continued toward Pöchlarn, with another 48 kilometers ahead.
The walk is physical, but the message is powerful:

“Each step represents hope for someone in the homeless community in Europe.”

Fatigue set in. Muscles stiffened. Gaits turned funny. But our fellow walkers kept moving, drawing strength from the cause. As Toby said, “When I stop, my muscles rest — and then I struggle to walk again.”

And yet, they kept going.

They also shared a reflection that hits home: while they’ve been lucky to eat well and rest each evening, millions across Europe are walking daily just to survive — without proper meals or mobility support. Day 2 was dedicated to them.

One Million Steps, One Purpose

The Great Walk is not about distance — it’s about direction.
It’s about turning every step into a signal: that homelessness in Europe matters, and that we all have a role to play in tackling it.

You can follow the journey, spread the word, and if you’re able — donate. Every bit of support helps fuel this walk and the cause it represents.

👉 Donate & Support

Stay tuned as we continue to follow the journey of The Great Walk. Step by step, story by story, this is how change begins.

👉 Follow the Journey

Want to see The Great Walk in action?
Catch behind-the-scenes moments, daily updates, and stories from the road on their social channels:

• Instagram
• YouTube
• LinkedIn

Every view, like, comment, or share helps raise awareness and keeps the team going strong.
Let’s walk this path together — step by step.

Edi Venturin
Director of Marketing & Communication, PMI Belgium

Are you ready to contribute your expertise and help strengthen the Belgian project management community?

Volunteering comes with well-documented benefits — from expanding your professional network to developing new skills and gaining recognition as a subject matter expert. At PMI Belgium, our success depends on the dedication of volunteers who make our events, initiatives, and development activities possible. Their contributions are deeply valued by our members and the organisations they represent.

One key opportunity is the upcoming PMI BeNeLux Summit, taking place in Maastricht on October 10. This flagship event brings together project professionals from across the region to explore the role of AI in project management, foster cross-border collaboration, and share insights.

An event of this scale requires preparation and hands-on support, both in the run-up and on the day itself — and we’re looking for motivated volunteers to join the team.

👉 Interested in getting involved and connecting with peers from Belgium, the Netherlands, and Luxembourg? Visit our Volunteer Opportunities page or go directly to PMI’s Volunteer Engagement Platform to explore this and other roles.

Can’t find the perfect fit? No problem — just fill out our short and user-friendly volunteer interest form to share your experience and areas of interest.

In short: volunteering is a great way to grow professionally, contribute to your community, and make a real impact.
We’d love to have you on board.

Gert Van Hoecke
Director of Volunteering, PMI Belgium

The PMI BeNeLux Summit 2025 is fast approaching — and with it, a program built to match every stage of your project management journey.
Organised around four learning tracks (Pioneer, Master, Innovator, and All Levels), the Summit offers something for everyone: from early-career professionals to senior leaders, from students to executives. Whether you're exploring AI for the first time or shaping its future application across complex portfolios, you'll find sessions tailored to your needs.

In this edition, we’re excited to introduce some of the speakers behind the sessions — thought leaders and practitioners ready to inspire, challenge, and connect.

All Levels – Keynote Speakers

• Christian Kromme – The Future of AI
• Christina Sejr Pedersen – How AI and People Can Co-Exist in Project Management
• Bart Briers – The Future is Hybrid – A Vision for Modern Project Management

Pioneer Track – Entry-Level & Curious Minds

• Al Zeitoun – Creating Experience-Driven Organizational Culture
• Anna Yampolskaya – Automate, Visualise, Communicate: AI in Project Reporting
• Frank Tassone – AI in Practice for Greener Projects
• Nicole Schelter – Human-Centric AI in Projects: The Potential of Personalized Project Assistants
• Lorenzo Vetrano – My New Teammate Called AI – Lessons from the Sports Arena
• Renuka Ayri – Self-Management & Emotional Intelligence: The Foundation of Adaptive Leadership in the AI Era
• Joachim Dehais & Lorenzo Vetrano – Leadership through Sport and Dance: Developing the Heart of a Leader

Master Track – For Experienced Professionals

• Bart Briers – AI for PMs: Automate. Augment. Assist.
• Christophe De Vleeschouwer – Leading Through Uncertainty: The Human Skills That Drive Success in Global Drug Development
• Irina Verlan – Ethical Intelligence: Embedding AI Ethics into Project Management Frameworks
• Shushan Khachatryan-van Krimpen – Minding Your Footprint: AI in Project Management
• Teodora Anna Sveva Cerrato – Beyond Delivery: Building a Sustainable Future with AI-Powered Projects

Innovator Track – For Those Driving Change

• Cindy Castado – The Strategic Importance of Wellbeing in a World Governed by AI and Acceleration
• Joachim Dehais & Aurora Gualtieri – Misunderstood Everyone: How Different Generations Can Unite to Fight Decay as the Situation is Dire
• Markus Kopko – Beyond the Hype: How AI Is (Really) Transforming Portfolio, Program & Project Management
• Pat Lucey – Innovate, Execute, Lead – Bridging Entrepreneurship and Project Management
• Patricia Dominguez Marin – Female Artificial Intelligence
• Stuart Thorp – Maximizing Project Success and Delivering the Paris Agreement – Supported by AI

Join the Conversation in Maastricht

The PMI BeNeLux Summit 2025 takes place on 10 October 2025 at the MECC Convention Center in Maastricht. With the theme “Project Management in the AI Era: Bridging Precision, Creativity, and Innovation”, the Summit brings together a diverse community of project professionals to explore the future of our field.

Expect a full day of insights, exchange, and connection — including the growing role of AI, sustainability, leadership, and wellbeing in a rapidly changing world.

Whether you’re a seasoned project manager or just starting out, it’s a unique opportunity to learn, share, and grow.

👉 Secure your spot here.

Cristina Damian
Newsletter Editor, PMI Netherlands

This speaker overview was made possible thanks to the dedicated work of the PMI BeNeLux Summit Speakers Team: Shirley Pullan, Henrietta Frimpong, Aurora Gualtieri, Julija Popova, and Anja Vandenbergh.

As part of our ongoing collaboration with education partners, PMI Belgium is pleased to share this initiative from Odisee De Co-Hogeschool (EHSAL Management School) — offering Dutch-language training for project professionals.

Project Management Course in Dutch – Starting October 14, 2025

Organised in collaboration with the Association KU Leuven, this 7-day course provides a broad overview of classical, agile, and hybrid project management approaches. It takes place at the Brussels campus, in Dutch, from 9:30 to 16:30 over seven full days.

Participants can expect:

• Insights into managing projects in VUCA environments (Volatile, Uncertain, Complex, Ambiguous)
• Practical examples shared by experienced university lecturers
• A project simulation game to apply techniques in a realistic setting

Faculty:

Bart Briers, Dries Vandevyvere, Kristien Laeveren, Wim Vanspringel, Wim Ravijts, and myself, Hugo Couck

More information:

• Hear from a former participant, Joachim:
  
• Learn more: www.emsbrussel.be/projectmanagement
• Get in touch: emsinfo@emsbrussel.be
• Come and visit: Odisee | EHSAL Management School, Warmoesberg 26, 1000 Brussels

Hugo Couck
Program Coordinator for Lifelong Learning, Odisee / EHSAL Management School (EMS Brussels)

In this article, I share some perspectives from my holiday of a lifetime – an expedition to the Arctic.

Given the sensitivity of the nature in the Arctic, and flying being the only realistic travel option, I was in two minds about whether I should consider such an expedition. Some initial research highlighted organisations through which the travel could be responsibly organised. Flying anywhere causes CO₂ emissions, and I remembered from my own pilot training (that’s another story) that planes fly more efficiently in cold air than warm.

Over the last 14 years, I have had the privilege of leading a number of significant European programs for a global automotive company headquartered in Japan. One of my many learnings has been the power of the Japanese concept genba. Literally translated, it means “go to the place”; in business, it translates into understanding a situation for yourself – especially if there's a challenging problem that needs strong countermeasures. I know from experience that a proposal to senior Japanese management should be accompanied by genba – as that's often the first question at the end of a presentation!

Genba was my personal motivation for going to the Arctic – to see the situation for myself, to draw my own conclusions about what has been happening there, and what countermeasures I could support. Additionally, I got to visit the most stunningly beautiful place I have ever seen (and likely will ever see).

The Expedition

The expedition took the form of a six-day cruise on board Ortelius – a Dutch-registered former scientific research vessel capable of sailing through ice (but not used to break sea ice).

The cruise set out from Longyearbyen on Svalbard, the most northerly town on the planet, and visited various fjords around Svalbard as well as the ice floe north of Svalbard.

There were many opportunities to get close to the local flora and fauna – using the onboard zodiacs to minimise the impact of our visit.

We had the privilege to see many incredible species including blue, minke and beluga whales, walruses, sea lions, reindeer, many species of migrating birds, and of course polar bears.

The Region

There is no land at the North Pole itself, but it is currently covered in sea ice to a greater or lesser extent throughout the year.

A map of the northern polar region immediately highlights some geopolitical challenges, as the Arctic is flanked by (in clockwise order from the zero meridian): Iceland, Greenland (Denmark), Canada, USA, Russia and Norway.

Svalbard is the most northerly point in Norway, managed as a devolved, locally administered area within the Kingdom of Norway. It has a population of around 2,600 people from over 50 nationalities and welcomes visitors from all countries.

Local Perspectives

Before starting the expedition, we spent a day in Longyearbyen. It was a great opportunity to see a little of this fascinating community, speak with residents and buy some local products.

The welcome was warm and expeditions on our scale (around 75 passengers) were clearly welcomed. However, larger cruises – some having more passengers than the entire local population – have been less welcomed, and indeed regulation has recently changed to limit the maximum vessel size to 200 passengers to limit negative impact.

In a local café (where we were welcomed by tame huskies!) I bought a book by a local author, Line Nagell Ylvisåker, which told her touching story and coupled it with a strong understanding of climate science to explain the dramatic impact that climate change was having on Svalbard.

The climate around Svalbard is changing around four times faster than the global rate of change. The area was historically very dry (low precipitation); however, climate change has brought significant increases in precipitation which led to an avalanche in 2015 and the tragic loss of life in the community. Fjords once crossable in winter by snowmobile are no longer freezing, hence reducing accessibility to remote areas. I feel a responsibility to pass on Line's words: “Nature speaks in a language that refuses to be ignored.”

Human Presence

Svalbard was first discovered by William Barentsz in 1596 while searching for the North Sea Route. The first human settlers date back to the 17th century; human interest began to focus on exploiting the local resources through whaling, hunting and mining.

Whilst whale meat is still available in local restaurants (I think largely as a novelty for inquisitive visitors), there was no evidence of any scale of current whaling. As a vegetarian, I stayed well clear!

Mining on Svalbard is a consequence of the history of tectonic plate movement. It seems incredible, but the land mass was once located near to the Earth's equator where ancient forests were assimilated into layers of carbon, forming coal.

There remain some mining facilities on Svalbard, but nothing on the scale of past production. I was pleased to see Svalbard re-inventing itself as a centre for climate science, as well as responsible eco-tourism.

Climate Fresk

Having attended and facilitated many Climate Fresk workshops (including for PMI members), I felt the significance of many of the concepts used in the workshops being laid out before us during the expedition.

Melting Sea Ice

It was very special to be able to travel into the sea ice and to see polar bears in their favoured habitat for hunting seal.

The expedition featured lectures from the expedition leaders, each with their own areas of specialist interest. During a lecture on ice, we heard that there will come a time when sea ice completely melts during the summer period. This may happen as late as 2050, but recent research shows it could even be as early as 2027. After this point, the ancient sea ice will disappear, and the landscape will never again be the same. Also, after this point, polar bears will not have the option to spend summer on the sea ice – they will need to retreat to land. If Svalbard were to remain as-is, with a relatively low population, this could be possible. But in other areas of the Arctic region, polar bears and humans are coming into increasingly closer contact – and this is dangerous for both species.

Melting Glaciers

For me, the greatest natural beauty was in the glacier fronts, as seen close-up from zodiacs in the fjords of Svalbard.

Ortelius was moored between two beautiful glacier fronts in a space where just a few years ago, the two glaciers had joined into a single flow. The glacier fronts have since retreated many hundreds of metres.

At many points during the expedition, we were reminded of how quickly the climate was changing. However, there seemed to be little guidance about what we (the expedition members) could do to make a positive contribution to help mitigate that change.

Engaging Further

I had a great conversation with the expedition leader about Climate Fresk, and how this can help non-scientists (like the expedition members) easily understand the definitive science of the IPCC reports, as well as how we can all make a positive contribution to mitigating and adapting to climate change. We agreed that it may be helpful to the expedition members to be briefed about Climate Fresk. Unfortunately, the opportunity did not arise within the busy expedition agenda.

I followed up after the expedition with the marketing team for the tour operator to explore how we might communicate to the expedition members the opportunity for them to attend a Climate Fresk workshop (in their own country and preferred language).

For me, this was an important gap in the expedition, as the participants were well motivated towards wanting to protect this wonderful environment we had visited. I was feeling a deep sadness about the changes in the region, and the Climate Fresk workshop process is designed to take such emotion through into motivation to make a positive change.

The latest situation is that the tour operator has declined to discuss this further, as they are internally finalising their strategy regarding climate change communication. I sincerely hope that their strategy will lead to an approach that will in future engage with expedition participants to seek their involvement in climate action.

Impacts of Climate Change in the Arctic

The Arctic is of interest to climate science for many reasons including:
(i) the rate of temperature change is the highest on the planet, so it's possible to observe some of the impacts of that change; and
(ii) the climate around the Arctic has a strong impact on the climate globally.

If the Greenland continental ice sheet continues to rapidly melt, the freshwater released will further dilute the salinity of the northern Atlantic. In turn, this could slow – or even stop – the Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation (AMOC), which could significantly and suddenly (in the space of a few years) lead to cooling of the northern Atlantic, and corresponding warming in the southern oceans. Counter-intuitively, this could lead to dramatic cooling (Arctic conditions) in northern Europe and further knock-on melting of Antarctic ice sheets. As the latter are on an even greater scale than in the Arctic, the consequential sea level rise could be measured in many metres – threatening coastal regions globally.

Thus, in Europe, as well as globally, we have a very strong interest in protecting the Arctic region from further change. Some change is already baked in, but every fraction of a degree of warming we can avoid will lead to less global risk to humanity and other nature.

Our Personal Impact

Travelling with my wife Christel, I estimate that our CO₂ emissions impact was for each of us around 1 tonne CO₂ equivalent for flights (Brussels to Svalbard via Oslo) and 4 TCO₂e for the cruise (based on data shared by the expedition team). Five TCO₂e emissions is clearly a massive carbon cost in relation to a target carbon footprint less than this value over a year.

I took all available options to minimise this impact (e.g. participating in an offsetting scheme run by the expedition operator, as well as 100% purchase of biofuel options for our flights).

The latter cost a significant sum (€570 to be precise), so I have followed up with the airline to clarify how I can be sure this is leading to less burning of fossil fuel, as well as whether the biofuel is responsibly produced (e.g. if it required deforestation, it may have been even more harmful than burning fossil fuels?). I also raised the question: why should I need to subsidise this low-impact flying, when air travel is massively subsidised by governments (in the form of tax breaks)? Why aren't those subsidies being prioritised towards lowering the impact of flying?

At the time of writing this article, I have received no response from the airline (SAS), despite a reminder sent – I will persist!

(It’s a strange reflection on the norms in our society, that as I have spent money on something, that gives me the implied right to ask questions!)

Conclusion

So, what was the result of my genba?

Visiting the area around Svalbard was a beautiful experience – but it came at a cost (around 5 TCO₂e per person in our case). I propose to translate that cost into an investment by ensuring that, as a result of my visit, CO₂ emissions reductions exceeding 10 TCO₂e will be delivered. It's very difficult to measure, but communicating my genba via this article is one step in that process.

If you are thinking of visiting the Arctic region, I would thoroughly recommend it – but only if you are also intending to think of the cost to nature as an investment that you also commit to paying back as quickly as you can. (Don’t just go for the pretty pictures!)

As our plane took off from Longyearbyen, I shed a tear.

It can be sad when a nice holiday comes to an end, but this was something much deeper. I knew that I would never again be able to see this beautiful place in the same way. What we had seen will not even be possible for our son and daughter to see. That feeling made me want to be an ambassador for the Arctic – so that it can be protected as far as possible from further damage, primarily via climate change mitigation and the transition away from the burning of fossil fuels – globally.

See You at Maastricht!

I'm delighted that my presentation proposal has been accepted for the PMI BeNeLux Summit on 10 October 2025 in Maastricht. My presentation, entitled “Maximizing project success and delivering the Paris Agreement – supported by AI”, will further explore the idea of turning costs into investments.

It would be great to see you at Maastricht, to explore what we can do as project professionals to keep the targets of the 2015 Paris Agreement in our sights.

Stuart Thorp
Program Manager and Climate Activist, Stance Consulting

Stuart’s reflections remind us that project professionals have a role to play in shaping a sustainable future. Join him at the PMI BeNeLux Summit in Maastricht on 10 October for deeper insights into climate-aligned project delivery.

In this episode of PM Untold, we welcome back Saby Waraich — global thought leader recognized by Thinkers360, ranked among the Top 10 influencers in Project Management and Business Strategy, and among the Top 50 in Leadership — for an inspiring conversation on transformational leadership.

Saby introduces a new leadership framework designed to help professionals evolve from being a leader who SCAREs — marked by Stress, Chaos, Anxiety, Resistance to change, and Ego—to one who CARES: Communicate, Adapt, build Relationships, Empower, and Stay calm. He shares the personal and professional experiences that led him to develop this model, how it stands apart from traditional approaches, and how it can be applied in complex project environments.

Whether you're driving large-scale transformations or simply aiming to grow as a leader, this episode offers practical advice and fresh perspective on shifting your mindset and leading with purpose.

🎧 Listen now at pmi-belgium.be/podcast

As we are coming to the end of the first 6 months with the board, and before everyone takes a well-deserved break, I want to acknowledge in this month’s Note of the President the partners of the PMI Belgium chapter leaders.

We all know the quote “behind every man is a great woman.” It is a figurative expression that suggests someone's individual achievement can be credited to the help they receive from a third party. It emphasizes the importance of supportive partners or collaborators in achieving success.

When Pierre, Giuseppe, Edi, Slim, Paolo, Gert, Tim, Baudouin, Geert, Piotr, Jana, Julija, and Christine stepped up to shape the chapter’s future, they knew it would challenge their work-life balance with a third element: volunteering. They had to learn PMI’s ways of working, collaborate as a team, and turn ideas into action.

This meant spending many evenings on PMI training, understanding their roles, and supporting fellow leaders. Over time, their focus expanded from family and work to include PMI—an adjustment that surely impacted their partners and home life.

A personal story: My “PMI” at home

Recalling the time I applied for President, I said to my “superman” Peter:
“When I apply for President, you understand that there will be evenings and weekends when I will be working for the chapter. Because applying for this function is not an achievement of life, it is a working function. It is a call for action, to continuously shape the future of the chapter.”

A smile comes up when I recall his answer:
“Project Management is your passion, leading people towards a new horizon is your mission. Building bridges and connecting with members is your energy. We will have quality time together, because I know that you need sometimes to step back, recharge your batteries. In that period, I’ll be there for you, as a listener to your worries, as a third opinion in your vision. I’ll stand there even if you want only silence. Because silence is your way in dealing with challenges, putting things into perspective, to turn threats into opportunity.”

At that moment, I knew that this PMI adventure would be totally different from all the other board positions I had in the past. Now, I have a backing team.

To all our supporting partners: thank you

I know that my chapter leaders have similar stories. All of them have a great partner, where they can turn to with complaints, with frustrations, but also with joyful stories and laughter.

Thank you for supporting your partner in this PMI adventure.
Thank you for listening, for encouraging them, for a shoulder to lean on, to cry on.
Thank you for your value to the team and to the chapter.

The power of acknowledgment

This is the power of acknowledgment—to partners and third parties who are behind the scenes, supporting the chapter.

Acknowledgment is much more than recognition. There is a difference between these terms:

• Recognition is appreciation for an action by a person
• Acknowledgment expresses appreciation for a person—for who they are

Why acknowledgment matters

Acknowledgment is something many deserve, but only a few receive. Yet, it has the power to make your organization—and everyone connected to it—happier, healthier, and more productive. When you recognize others sincerely, you build trust and foster meaningful interactions.

Look for opportunities to express how much you value the people around you. Share your heartfelt appreciation regularly—and watch the extraordinary happen. By acknowledging the very qualities you may envy in others, you open the door to deeper relationships and personal growth, gaining new respect for their contributions.

Acknowledgment is a powerful source of energy. Recognize great work wherever you see it, and people will respond with their best efforts, doing whatever it takes to succeed.

The impact of acknowledgment can be profound—it can change lives. It enhances both physical and emotional well-being. Acknowledging others has a similar uplifting effect—not just on them, but on you as well.

Practice acknowledgment in diverse and meaningful ways. Build a toolkit of approaches that allow you to connect with individuals in ways that resonate most deeply with them. Your consistent expression of gratitude creates the environment where acknowledgment can have its greatest impact.

Your turn: Who will you acknowledge?

With the summer holiday coming up, reflect on who you would like to acknowledge—because of something that person did for you, or a skill you envy in them.

👉 Share your story of acknowledgment in our PMI Belgium Chapter Group on LinkedIn so that others can feel the power of acknowledgment too.

With smiling greetings,

Anja Vandenbergh, PMP
President, PMI Belgium Chapter

On July 1st, PMI Belgium hosted “The Great Walk: Walking with Purpose”, an inspiring online session highlighting one of the most meaningful cross-European initiatives we’ve seen this year.

This wasn’t just another webinar. It was a moment to pause, reflect, and engage with a project that blends storytelling, endurance, and strategic thinking to drive real social impact.

Led by Andrew Funk and Toby Plüss — the visionaries behind The Great Walk and founders of Homeless Entrepreneur — the session offered attendees a unique look into the structure, goals, and challenges of this 880 km journey from Linz to Madrid.

Their mission?

To raise awareness about homelessness, change perceptions, and inspire action across Europe.

A Global Audience and Tangible Energy

The event drew an international audience, with attendees joining not only from across Europe but also from Australia and Brazil — a testament to the global relevance of the cause and the resonance of the message.

Despite a last-minute technical glitch (our sincere apologies to those who faced issues connecting), the session delivered. The energy was tangible, with insightful discussions, active engagement, and genuine interest. Great connections were made, and we even saw interest from other PMI chapters to get involved.

A Growing Network of Support

This session is part of a broader Project Managers Without Borders cross-chapter initiative supported by 10 PMI Chapters (so far): Barcelona, Switzerland, Belgium, Netherlands, Romania, Madrid, Poland, Portugal, Ireland, and Turkey.

Looking Ahead

We extend our heartfelt thanks to Andrew and Toby for their powerful, personal presentation — and for truly walking the talk. We’re also grateful to everyone who attended and contributed to the conversation.

To those who were unable to join due to technical difficulties: we’re sorry, and we hope to welcome you to future events.

We are now looking forward to welcoming Andrew and Toby in Belgium from August 14 to 17. We hope to walk alongside them — both physically and in solidarity.

Learn more about the initiative:
https://www.homelessentrepreneur.org/en/solidary-projects/the-great-walk

Support the campaign by donating:
https://donorbox.org/the-european-heat-aid-great-walk-2025

Edi Venturin
Director of Marketing & Communication, PMI Belgium

On 5 March 2025, the European Commission unveiled the Union of Skills strategy, a single framework that aligns education, training and employment policies so Europe can stay competitive in a fast-changing world. Central to the initiative are Individual Learning Accounts (ILAs): personal training wallets that give every citizen—employed, self-employed or between jobs—buying power for accredited up- and reskilling pathways and the EU’s Pact for Skills.

To help turn this vision into reality, PMI has signed the EU’s Pact for Skills, joining a coalition of businesses in June 2025, public bodies and training providers that pool commitments, funding and data to close sector-specific skill gaps.

How the PMI × Pact for Skills partnership helps

• Providing training and certifications for SMEs and public bodies
• Promoting a culture of lifelong learning and certifications to boost mobility
• Supporting data-driven pathways into high-demand roles
• Enabling cross-border networks of mentoring and practice sharing
• Working against discrimination and for gender equality and equal opportunities

PMI Talent Gap Report 2025 is clear and urgent

• In 2025, the EU will count approximately 9 million project professionals.
• By 2035, demand is expected to grow to 10.8–11.3 million, a 20–25% increase.
• An estimated 1.17 million will exit the workforce due to retirement or attrition.
• Result: Europe must recruit or upskill up to 3.47 million new project professionals by 2035.

Focus on Belgium

While the Union of Skills frames a continental response, its impact will ultimately be measured country-by-country. Belgium—small in size yet pivotal in EU policymaking—illustrates both the urgency and the opportunity.

Belgium begins 2025 with roughly 145 000 specialised professionals. By 2035 employers are projected to need about 164 000 workers in a low-growth economy and up to 170 000 in a high-growth one. Over that same decade, some 19 000 seasoned professionals are expected to retire or otherwise leave the workforce, regardless of the growth scenario. When those departures are added to fresh demand, Belgium faces a talent shortfall of roughly 39 000 people in the low-growth case and around 45 000 in the high-growth case.

What those numbers mean for Belgium

• One in four roles at risk. Even on a modest economic trajectory, Belgium could see nearly 24 % of project-driven positions sitting vacant by 2035.
• Retirements loom large. The exit of 19 000 seasoned professionals accounts for almost half the projected shortfall, highlighting the value of late-career retention schemes.
• Annual target: to neutralise the gap, Belgium must add or upskill roughly 4 500 project professionals every year—triple its recent output.

Learn more

• Union of Skills
• Pact for Skills
• PMI Talent Gap Report 2025
• PMI Certifications
• Search tool for funding opportunities
• PMI Europe on Linkedin

Tomasz Koguc
Head of Government Relations, Europe, PMI

PMI is actively promoting the use of Generative AI in project management. One great example is PMI Infinity — a powerful tool developed by PMI and available free of charge to all PMI members.
The platform also offers excellent training materials to help you understand how to use these tools and methodologies effectively.

I’d like to share how I used Infinity on a recent project at a small financial institution in Belgium. With limited project staff, I had to juggle many roles: scheduling, admin, meeting minutes — and also serve as the subject matter expert for payments infrastructure. That’s where the AI support became invaluable.

After each project meeting, I would upload either a transcript or my rough notes. The AI instantly summarized the discussion, highlighted key decisions, and even suggested action items. Thanks to this, I could send out clear, concise meeting summaries to the team within an hour.

For documentation, the AI helped draft project charters, risk registers, and communication plans. I provided a few bullet points, and it produced a solid first draft. With minimal editing, I could keep project documentation up to date without spending hours writing from scratch.

Even more technical tasks like risk management and requirements gathering were streamlined thanks to Infinity’s project-specific knowledge base. It draws from global best practices, helping you make informed decisions more quickly.

Curious to see it in action?

I’ll be hosting a Lunch & Learn session on Tuesday 19 August 2025, from 12:00 to 12:30, where I’ll demonstrate how I used PMI Infinity in my project — and share some tips and tricks along the way.
You can register via our events page.

I invite you to share your own experiences with Generative AI in project management. We’d love to feature them in future newsletters or discuss them during our upcoming events! Feel free to send your input to me.

Piotr Zamisnii
Director of Sponsorship, PMI Belgium

On June 10, 2025, IIBA Brussels, Randstad Digital, and PMI Belgium came together for their second joint event — an engaging evening focused on scope and requirements management from both Business Analyst and Project Manager perspectives. Framed around PMBOK and BABOK, the session combined theory with practice in a collaborative, hands-on format.

Building on a Shared Journey

Following our first session on Stakeholder Management, this event marked a new step in exploring synergies between BAs and PMs. Hosted at Randstad Digital’s Leuven office by Pieter Luycx, the evening brought together a vibrant crowd of enthusiastic participants eager to share, learn, and connect.

The energy in the room was fantastic, filled with enthusiastic participants ready to explore common ground between our two professional communities.

A Creative Dive into Scope and Requirements

The goal of the evening was to deep-dive into Scope and Requirements Management, exploring the topic through two complementary lenses: those of the Business Analyst and the Project Manager.

The interactive workshop — “Organizing a Party for the 1000th Anniversary of HappyTown” — helped us simulate the planning process and unpack how BAs and PMs approach scoping and requirement gathering in practical, often different, ways.

Valuable insights were shared during the session by Joanna, Elena, Didier, and myself, sparking lively exchanges. Together with the audience, we gained practical takeaways and recognized how combining PMBOK and BABOK thinking can help bridge gaps and boost collaboration.

Growing Together – Next Stop: Gent

One key outcome of the evening: the perceived divide between PM and BA roles is narrowing. When we bring our knowledge bases together and collaborate openly, we all grow.

Looking ahead, our third joint event is already planned!

Product Management vs. Project Management: Perspectives from PMs & BAs
October 14, 2025 at Randstad Digital, Gent

Want to be part of the conversation?

Stay tuned and register via our events page — seats are limited.

We hope to see you there!

Geert Cloostermans
Director of Academic & Educational Outreach (NL), PMI Belgium

What if the key to your next project breakthrough didn’t come from a tool or framework within your industry—but from a sector you’ve never worked in?

In today’s hyper-connected, fast-evolving world, innovation often doesn’t arise from doing the same thing faster, but from doing it differently.

And that difference frequently comes from outside your usual reference frame.
A project manager in healthcare can learn from the precision of semiconductors.
An ICT leader can be inspired by the iterative resilience of automotive engineering.
The seeds of progress are often hidden in someone else’s soil.

What Cross-Industry Fertilization Really Means

Cross-industry fertilization refers to the transfer of methodologies, tools, or cultural practices across industries. At its heart, it’s about applying tested solutions from one context into another—especially where challenges appear unrelated at first glance.

This is particularly relevant for project managers. Despite operating in different sectors, we all wrestle with risk, resources, scope, stakeholders, and value creation. That shared DNA allows methods to travel more easily than we might expect.

Examples of Fertilization in Action

Semiconductor ↔ Healthcare

Both industries operate with high precision and low error tolerance. Tools like Failure Mode and Effects Analysis (FMEA) and Design of Experiments, widely used in healthcare, can strengthen risk control and validation processes in semiconductor projects—improving yield and reducing time-to-market.

Automotive ↔ ICT

As automotive development embraces Agile for both software and hardware, ICT teams can learn from how carmakers manage iterations alongside long validation cycles. This fusion of speed and structure offers valuable lessons for scaling Agile in complex environments.

These are just a few of the countless connections that emerge when we look beyond our own industry boundaries—and stay curious about how others solve similar challenges.

A Common Language: Value, Risk, and Data

What unites these sectors is a shared shift toward value-focused delivery and data-informed decision-making. Increasingly, project success is no longer measured just by scope-time-budget, but by the impact and value created—for users, customers, and organizations.

This shift demands that PMs become strategic thinkers and translators—able to understand, adopt, and adapt techniques across contexts. Our toolkit isn’t static. It grows with every conversation across the industry fence.

Why It Matters for Our Community

In the Belgian region, we are privileged to work within a diverse and dynamic industrial ecosystem. Semiconductors, pharmaceuticals, digital innovation, mobility, energy, aerospace—every domain faces transformation, and project managers are at the center of it all.

This is exactly why the PMI Belgium Chapter is placing a strong emphasis on creating events that foster collaboration across the heterogeneous industry ecosystem not only in Belgium but across the entire BENELUX region. To support this vision, we have established a growing series of initiatives designed to connect professionals across industries, exchange practices, and celebrate excellence. These include:

Already available:

• CoP Life Sciences
• PMI BENELUX SUMMIT 2025, October 10th
• Product Management vs. Project Management: Perspectives from PMs & Bas, October 14th

In our pipeline (stay tuned…):

• Professional days (at enterprise sites)
• PMO BeNeLux Awards
• CoP PMO
• CoP Semiconductor

Through these initiatives, we aim to ignite conversations that break silos, inspire new ways of thinking, and equip our members to lead the future of project management with a broader, bolder perspective.

A Final Thought

If innovation is your goal, curiosity must be your method. Look sideways. Borrow freely. Adapt fearlessly.
After all, your next breakthrough might already exist—just not in your industry!

Curious where to start? Join one of our cross-industry communities or attend an upcoming event. Let’s learn from each other—across sectors, across borders.

Paolo Alagna
Director of Professional Development, PMI Belgium

Where it All Began

Like many, I wasn't interested in project management. It sounded like it was getting in the way of my precious work.

For I was an expert, Artificial Intelligence in Medical Devices, and I was good at it. Back then, I was doing a PhD in biomedical engineering, and in the academic world, management is not exactly a consideration.

And yet.

One of the key elements of project management is self efficacy, the ability to estimate, plan out, and deliver activities. It makes us efficient. As experts, that is the part we know best.

Discovering the Bigger Picture

What is less known is the social and business acumen required to deliver value without burning out.
That is how frustrated at how the research team ran, I started studying, first the CAPM, much later PMP.
And did it help.

Starting with formalising all the good practices, giving them names and tools I could quickly put in place to save hours and reduce errors.

But this competence and knowledge came at a cost, it became increasingly clear that politics were at play, damaging our product and risking lives.

So I kept digging, certified, and took the newfound confidence and skills to the negotiating table.

Turning Points and Tough Lessons

There was no table, and 18 months later I was hired by my boss' funders, and they cut the funding.
I did get a raise in the order of 25% and a new position.

By the end of the new year, more political issues arose, yet I was untouchable, having just obtained 3 Million in funding with the prototype I designed and delivered with consultants. Another raise, another new position.

This time in charge of medical device quality management, and testing. Pre-existing knowledge from PM studies allowed me to quickly capture the quality management system, and move forward with a product design.

Meanwhile, the expert-led leadership became tangled in more political discussions, and the project was increasingly at risk.

Consulting: A New Phase

My experience and PM qualifications landed me a job as IT management consultant, while two project managers burned out and the project failed.

As a consultant, the structure provided by the PMBOK was essential. Quick stakeholder and impact analysis, strong knowledge management structure, and a keen eye to benefits allowed me to deliver on multiple projects over 3+ years, many who were seen as lost causes.

On my first such project, the sponsor was an angry gatekeeper, it was nearly impossible to get direction out of them. But I rallied the team and colleagues around our purpose with a clean charter, and ruthless culling of unnecessary work. From failing to exemplary project in 4 months, finally detecting quality issues in production sites.

On my next engagement, I found a Pharma team with no direction, no documentation, and 90-day delivery periods despite a 6-week backlog estimate. Again, knowledge is power: we standardised the processes and all of the scrum rituals, turned timeboxing into an art, and regularly addressed key decisions before sprint plannings. We cut daily meeting duration in 3, and reduced delivery periods by a minimum of 10%.

More than Tools: it's Stakeholder Management 

In parallel, I managed the ERP change for a small clinic, where once more good requirements management and quality controls meant we delivered the right tool and negotiated prices right in time.

The next project was almost entirely stakeholder management. An IT strategy, without an IT strategy specialist, major internal conflicts, a general hatred for externals, a fixed budget, and holes in the contract.

The kind of projects where you learn a lot, and burn a lot. Stakeholder management and agile work allowed us to go through a large number of deliverables, and foresee the clashes that would happen with other stakeholders, reducing internal clashes.

A Crisis — and a Turnaround 

One blessing follows another, my last project as a consultant was on the brink of collapse when I joined. Half of the compliance team was ready to quit on this Software as Medical Device, the customer was ready to pull out, and a colleague was working with our internal competitors, sabotaging our work.

Once more, extensive stakeholder management solved the core issues. Engaging with the customer heavily, showing good will, and structuring the communications. Behind the scenes, I coached my team to temporarily give me the risk and focus on delivery, without giving false hopes.

This pronged solution allowed me to increase good will and rebuild collaborations between the customer and consultant teams. We turned the project around in 2 months, going from risk of cancellation to 1 year of extension.

Gratitude for the Journey

For these skills that I gained, and the economic as well as intellectual benefits that they have given me, I am thankful.

To CAPM and PMP for the formalism.

To PMI for the content, and the local chapters for the curated, custom content.

For the volunteers and participants, with whom I could exchange ideas and learn, and who have given me opportunities to practice the leadership of a manager.

Joachim will be one of the speakers at the upcoming PMI Benelux Summit on October 10th — don’t miss his session if you’d like to hear more from his journey firsthand.

Joachim Dehais, PhD, PMP, TOGAF, CCBA
VP Members & Volunteers, PMI Switzerland

• How to start and scale a global virtual project
• Effective strategies for engaging Gen Z across cultures
• Tools and tactics to manage distributed teams
• The young women impacted by Rising Girls Global

You may have already heard—PMI Belgium Chapter is among the last to adopt the new PMI Membership model. As we make this important shift, our Board of Directors is fully committed to supporting you through the transition.

This unified membership model is designed to create a more seamless and connected experience for all members. By combining the benefits of PMI Global and the Belgium Chapter into one streamlined membership, it will be easier than ever to stay engaged, informed, and supported throughout your professional journey with PMI.

Why is the Unified PMI Membership Model Important for the Chapter?

The unified PMI® Membership Model matters for three key reasons:

1. Chapter Health
   A vibrant and expanding community is essential to the long-term success of PMI Belgium. This new model is designed not only to grow our local membership base, but also to support the chapter’s financial and operational sustainability.
2. Member Retention
   As we embrace a more connected and collaborative model, our chapter plays a vital role in fostering strong member engagement. By focusing on member needs, delivering quality events, and creating opportunities for growth and networking, we aim to strengthen satisfaction and retention—ensuring PMI Belgium remains dynamic and future-ready.
3. A Unified, Stronger Network
   The new model opens the door for even more professionals to join PMI Belgium, creating new opportunities for connection and collaboration. Together, we’re building a stronger, more diverse professional network—right here in Belgium.

What Are the Benefits for Members?

There are several benefits to embracing the unified PMI® Membership Model:

• Simplified access: One fee includes both PMI Global and PMI Belgium Chapter membership.
• Expanded network: Enjoy access to a broader network of professionals, locally and globally.
• Enriched experiences: Participate in exclusive, high-quality events and programs.
• Diverse industry connections: Connect with professionals across various sectors to gain new perspectives.
• Local expertise, global insight: Engage in intimate, community-focused activities while staying connected to global trends and best practices.

We’re excited to share that our Vice-President, Pierre Van de Leemput, has taken on the role of Project Manager to lead the transition. Working alongside Tim Gaens (Director of Membership), Edi Venturin (Director of Marketing & Communication), and Giuseppe Di Maria (Director of Finance and Administration), Pierre is guiding this important initiative with dedication and a strong focus on member support.

This passionate team is here to ensure that you—our valued members—are ready to embrace the benefits of this new, streamlined membership experience.

To support you through the transition, we’ll be organizing webinars, info sessions, and events where you can learn more about the model, ask questions, and understand how it impacts you as a PMI Belgium member.

The full implementation of the unified PMI® Membership Model is set for 1 January 2026, and together, we’re building a stronger, more connected PMI Belgium Chapter for the future.

With smiling greetings,

Anja Vandenbergh, PMP
President, PMI Belgium Chapter

Many of us fondly remember last year’s R&D PPM Cross-sharing & Development Day at GSK — a special day dedicated to uniting project managers from across the drug development sector. We explored the deep connections between project management and research & development, and the energy in the room was palpable. For many participants, it felt like coming home — a space where knowledge, experiences, and best practices were freely shared among peers in the Life Sciences industry.

The term Life Sciences covers a broad field, encompassing the study of living organisms — their structure, function, growth, evolution, and classification. This vast domain includes pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, and medical devices, offering rich opportunities for collaboration and learning, beyond the usual competitive boundaries of our industry.

That day, we witnessed a powerful collaboration among life science companies — an initiative warmly welcomed by attendees representing various organizations within the sector. Together, we connected, exchanged insights, and found inspiration from real-world experiences and shared challenges.

Given the highly regulated and innovative nature of the Life Sciences industry, the idea emerged to create a dedicated Community of Practice (CoP) Life Sciences under the PMI Belgium Chapter.

Why Create the CoP Life Sciences Under the PMI Belgium Chapter?

The global mission of the Project Management Institute (PMI) is to enhance project success worldwide. By partnering with PMI Belgium, we gain access to a trusted global network, proven methodologies, and a shared commitment to excellence.

Establishing the CoP Life Sciences within this framework allows us to stay aligned with global best practices while fostering a specialized local community of professionals in pharmaceuticals, biotech, and medical devices. This community will collaborate, learn, and make a meaningful impact together.

Mission of the PMI Belgium Chapter – CoP Life Sciences

The CoP Life Sciences is dedicated to fostering collaboration across Life Sciences organizations to advance project management excellence.

Our mission is to share best practices through joint publications, webinars, blogs, white papers, and academic contributions. A flagship initiative is the annual “R&D Cross-Sharing and Development Day,” hosted on a rotating basis by participating member companies.

The CoP Life Sciences is composed of members from various Life Sciences companies, with the PMI Belgium Chapter serving as chair to uphold and safeguard the community’s mission and vision. This ensures a neutral, structured, and forward-thinking environment where innovation, knowledge sharing, and professional growth can thrive.

Join Us!

We warmly invite you to join the LinkedIn Group, where you can network, learn, and grow locally with fellow Life Sciences project management professionals.

CoP Life Sciences - PMI Belgium Chapter

Our goal is clear: to strengthen the Belgian project management community in Life Sciences!

Project management with purpose. That’s what drives us — and this summer, we’re walking the talk.

PMI Belgium is proud to join six other European PMI Chapters in supporting The Great Walk, a cross-border initiative led by Homeless Entrepreneur — an organisation committed to breaking the cycle of homelessness through work, visibility, and social reintegration.

From Linz to Madrid, across 5 countries and covering 880 kilometers, Andrew and Toby, two formerly homeless individuals, are walking to raise awareness, change perceptions, and inspire action.

But this isn’t about walking.
It’s about what we stand for.

Our role

As project professionals, we bring structure to complexity — and this time, we’re applying those skills beyond the boardroom. Together with our fellow chapters from Switzerland, Netherlands, Spain (Madrid and Barcelona), Poland, and Romania, we’re offering support where it matters:

• Amplifying the message across our channels
• Sharing the story with our members and partners
• Providing communication and strategic expertise
• Showing up with purpose

THE GREAT WALK reflects what PMI stands for: using skills for impact, and leadership for the greater good.

How you can support

This initiative thrives on community engagement — and that includes you.
If this mission resonates with you, there are several ways to join the movement:

• Follow the journey via Homeless Entrepreneur's website and their social media
• Engage with and reshare their updates on LinkedIn and Instagram to amplify the message
• Tag your network — especially media, partners, or sponsors who might help increase visibility
• Walk alongside Andrew and Toby during a leg of the route as they pass through your region
• Donate or volunteer to directly support the campaign and its impact
• Reach out if you’d like to contribute your time or skills to this or similar purpose-driven initiatives

We’ll also be covering THE GREAT WALK through updates on our blog, so stay tuned — and be part of a growing wave of support across Europe.

Because project managers don’t just deliver results. They lead change.

And there’s more to come…

To go deeper into the journey and meet the people behind it, PMI Belgium will co-host a special webinar with Andrew Funk and the Homeless Entrepreneur team.

• Date: July 1, 20:00–21:00 CET
• Details here.

This will be your chance to hear firsthand how this walk is changing lives — and how you can be part of the movement.

Want to support or get involved?

Reach out to us via info@pmi-belgium.be or connect with us on social media.
Let’s walk this journey together — even if we’re not taking the steps ourselves.

PMI Belgium
A proud supporter of THE GREAT WALK – in collaboration with PMI Switzerland, Netherlands, Madrid, Barcelona, Romania, and Poland.

Are you looking to grow as a project manager? Want to learn from someone who’s already walked the path? Then the PMI Belgium Mentorship Program is for you!

As a mentee, you will:

• Receive personalized guidance from a seasoned project professional
• Gain real-world insights into project management practices
• Develop soft skills aligned with PMI’s Talent Triangle
• Expand your professional network
• Earn PDUs through informal learning

This program goes beyond classic mentoring. It’s your opportunity to:

• CONNECT with experienced professionals in the PMI Belgium community
• LEARN from their practical expertise
• GROW in your career, skills, and confidence

Who Can Join?

Eligibility:

• You should be a PMI member or planning to become one soon (ideally affiliated with the Belgium Chapter)

Commitment:

• 6-month duration
• Monthly 1–2 hour sessions (virtual or in-person)
• Proactive engagement, openness to feedback, and a growth mindset

What’s In It for You?

• Career direction and clarity
• Mentoring tailored to your goals
• A stronger network in the Belgian project management community
• Confidence and personal growth

Many mentees say the program gave them more clarity, confidence, and career momentum.

Program Structure

• Kick-off: Orientation session to launch the mentoring cycle
• Monthly sessions: One-on-one (online or face-to-face)
• Closure: Wrap-up and feedback exchange

Ready to Apply?

To join the next cohort, reach out to:
professional.development@pmi-belgium.be

Want to Learn More First?

We’ll soon be hosting a Lunch & Learn session where you can explore the program, hear success stories, and ask questions in a live, informal setting.

Stay tuned — and take the first step in your mentoring journey!

Paolo Alagna
Director of Professional Development, PMI Belgium

Are you a new member of PMI Belgium or have you recently joined our chapter?
Don’t miss our upcoming Welcome Session—a relaxed and informative webinar designed to help you make the most of your membership.

You’ll get an overview of our mission, key initiatives, and the many ways to get involved in our growing community of project professionals. It’s also a great opportunity to connect with fellow members, discover upcoming events, and ask questions.

• Date: Wednesday, 4 June 2025
• Time: 20:00 – 21:00

The session is free to attend, but registration is required.
The event link will be shared after registration via our events calendar.

Whether you're just settling in or looking to explore more ways to engage—this session is for you.

Looking forward to seeing you there!

Tim Gaens
Director of Membership, PMI Belgium

Since the beginning of this year, PMI Belgium has created a dedicated Academic & Educational Outreach function focused on the French-speaking part of the country. The objective is to build strong relationships with schools, high schools, universities, and FOREM, promoting best practices in project management.

PMI offers a wide range of academic resources and tools—some free, others member-exclusive. These include:

• PMI Kickoff – a free, user-friendly guide to help anyone start a project;
• PMI Infinity – an AI-powered assistant for project professionals;
• Global portals that offer Project Management leading edge material and connect students and professionals worldwide.

In many countries, the PMI Global Accreditation Center (GAC) accredits project management and related programs at the bachelor, postgraduate, and doctorate levels. This accreditation ensures that programs meet global standards of quality, relevance, and student focus.

Still, nothing replaces human connection. Our Academic & Educational Outreach volunteers are actively engaging with professors who lead project management programs to offer:

• Guest lectures based on the PMBOK Guide,
• Practical insights gained through decades of hands-on experience.

Another key initiative this year is to re-establish collaboration with FOREM to enhance project management education within its training programs.

📩 Interested in collaborating, learning more, or getting involved? Get in touch.

Baudouin Boreux
Director of Academic & Educational Outreach (FR), PMI Belgium

[Reflections from PMI Belgium’s Member Day at LABIOMISTA – Part 2 of 2]

I’m still processing everything we experienced during the #MemberDay at LABIOMISTA.

This wasn’t just an event — it was an immersion. A space that invites reflection and provokes thought. Where nature, art, science, and diversity converge — and that alone would have been enough to leave me transformed.

As I moved through each installation and carefully designed landscape, I felt as if my MBA in Project Management was unfolding before my eyes. Each corner echoed the phases of a project: initiation, planning, execution, monitoring, and closing — but this time, not on paper, not in a classroom. It was tangible. It was alive. It had a purpose.

If I had to design a project today — one that integrates circular economy, social impact, regenerative design, education, culture, and community engagement — LABIOMISTA would be my blueprint.

The plurality of that place expands the mind.

Diversity isn’t just in the animals, the plants, or the art — it’s in the meanings, the stories, and the human connections it nurtures.

If I had to highlight one piece that truly shook me, it would be the reimagined figure of Medusa. Bold, unsettling, and deeply symbolic, it felt like a turning point — not just in the exhibition, but in how we relate to transformation itself.

By reimagining the mythological figure of Medusa with chickens instead of snakes, artist Koen Vanmechelen invites us to confront a powerful symbol of transformation. Instead of a gaze that turns to stone, we face the complexity of life, where art, science, and nature converge. The chickens, recurring elements in his Cosmopolitan Chicken Project, represent not only genetic and cultural diversity, but also the bridge between the natural and the biotechnological.

The presence of eggs in his sculptures evokes fertility, origin, and also their vital role in vaccine production — a point of intersection between the ancient and the modern, the body and the cure. Vanmechelen poses a deeper question:

Are we mere observers of the world, or are we its curators, caretakers, and changemakers?

His work doesn’t offer easy answers. Instead, it challenges us to reflect on our responsibility toward life, diversity, and the future of humanity.

It was a powerful reminder that, as project managers, we are no longer just facilitators of process or efficiency; we are also responsible for driving results. We are — above all — agents of transformation. We must also seek out experiences that challenge us, shake our assumptions, and expand our vision beyond traditional frameworks and Gantt charts.

A heartfelt thank you to PMI Belgium Chapter and our President, Anja Vandenbergh, for making this experience possible.

It was more than a networking day.

It was a living masterclass on what the future demands from us.

Jana Nastari
Associate Director of Marketing & Communication, PMI Belgium

[Reflections from PMI Belgium’s Member Day at LABIOMISTA – Part 1 of 2]

In the unique and inspiring setting of LABIOMISTA in Genk—where nature, science, and humanity intertwine—we celebrated our Members’ Day. It was a day of connection, reflection, and vision. We came together to share the ongoing initiatives of the PMI Belgium Chapter, to meet the board members, and to spark conversations about the future we are building together.

A highlight of the day was a guided walk that introduced us to the CosmoGolem —a powerful wooden figure that symbolizes hope, dreams, and transformation. The CosmoGolem invites each of us to place our wishes, fears, and deepest desires into its heart, trusting that they will be held and protected. Its large feet represent stability and being grounded in reality. Its outstretched hands are a reminder of our ability to create and protect, and its open head symbolizes an open mind—essential for growth, innovation, and change.

The entire space at LABIOMISTA echoed a harmony between humans and nature, science and spirit. Animals, symbolizing the spirit world, reminded us of the wisdom of our ancestors and the need to reconnect with the natural world, which holds so many answers—if we choose to listen.

As our Members’ Day ended, I asked each participant to write down a dream—something they truly long for—and give it to me, so I could hold it with intention and care, in the spirit of the CosmoGolem. This act wasn’t just symbolic — it was a step toward manifestation.

What Is Manifestation?

Manifestation is more than wishful thinking. It is the process of turning your thoughts, intentions, and beliefs into reality through focused energy, clarity, and action. At its core, manifestation is built on the idea that what you believe, you begin to create.

It starts with intentionally being clear about what you truly want. That intention becomes a seed. From there, you begin to visualize it. You imagine what your life looks like when that dream is realized, feel the emotions it brings, and align your mindset with that possibility.

But manifestation also requires action. The universe may open doors, but you must walk through them. You must take steps—big or small—toward the vision you hold. It’s a dance between trust and effort, between letting go and showing up.

Belief plays a vital role. If you don’t believe something is possible for you, you will unconsciously sabotage it. When you believe in your dream—when you entrust it to something bigger, like the symbolic heart of the CosmoGolem—you give it energy. You start to notice opportunities. You move with more purpose. You connect with people and ideas that support your dream.

This is the power of manifestation: aligning your inner world with the outer world you want to create.

Moving Forward with Intention

As we move forward—both individually and as a community—I encourage each of you to revisit the dream you offered to the CosmoGolem. Let it be more than a wish. Let it be a vision you believe in, act on, and manifest into reality.

"Dreams protected with love and intention don’t just survive—they grow."

Anja Vandenbergh – Laughter Fairy
Founder of Women in Project Management Community

In Episode #16 of PM Untold—the podcast series created by the PMI BeNeLux Chapters (Belgium, Netherlands, and Luxembourg)—we explore an often overlooked but vital element of project management: promotion.

Our guest, Davy De Regge, Managing Partner at iconnect, brings a wealth of experience in digital transformation, business analysis, and project management across sectors like logistics and finance. In this conversation, he sheds light on the strategies and mindset needed to give your projects the visibility they deserve.

What’s inside this episode:

• Why promoting your project is not just a “nice to have” but a strategic necessity
• Real-life tactics Davy used to successfully engage stakeholders
• How to overcome common hurdles when communicating project value
• The measurable impact of consistent visibility and strong messaging

Whether you’re leading a digital transformation or launching a small internal initiative, project promotion is essential. Learn how to approach it with intention and impact—and help your work gain the recognition and support it needs to succeed.

🎧 Listen now at pmi-belgium.be/pm-untold

💡 Don’t forget—you can claim PDUs by tuning in!

Tim Gaens
Director of Membership, PMI Belgium

Little by little, our new Board of Directors is finding its rhythm. Some members stepped into ongoing responsibilities, while others had the chance to dream and shape new initiatives from the ground up. Together, we crafted and reviewed our annual plan—a meaningful roadmap to guide the activities we want to bring to life for our members.

Over the past month, several of our board members took part in enriching courses designed to deepen their understanding of the PMI community. These experiences have not only enhanced their knowledge but also sparked a deeper sense of purpose. The courses were a prerequisite to attend the Europe Leadership Institute Meeting (LIM) in Barcelona, where I had the pleasure of traveling with four of our board members.

The LIM was nothing short of inspiring. With 234 passionate individuals representing 43 European chapters, it reminded us that leadership isn’t about titles—it’s about creating a space where people feel inspired to belong and contribute. Whether you're a leader, a member, or a volunteer, each of us plays a role in shaping something meaningful.

Pierre Le Manh, our CEO, equipped us with valuable tools to elevate our mission. Building on last year’s embrace of the PMI:Next strategy, we took a bold step forward in shaping our vision for “M.O.R.E.” grounded in the PMBOK as our starting point. As I introduced our board to other chapter leaders, something special happened—connections formed, inspiration flowed, and ideas sparked into life.

It was heartening to witness the curiosity, enthusiasm, and drive of our board members as they learned from peers facing similar challenges and triumphs. Between sessions, we exchanged insights, brainstormed new projects, and dreamed together. We returned home reenergized—with fresh ideas and one key realization: we can’t do this alone.

To bring these ideas to life, we need you—your passion, your hands, your heart. You are the lifeblood of the PMI Belgium Chapter. That’s why we’re dedicating a special Member Day event to celebrate your involvement, your journey, and the unique talents you bring.

📅 Join us on Saturday, 24 May 2025, at LABIOMISTA in Genk for a day dedicated to you. Membership is more than a fee—it’s about belonging to a vibrant community that thrives on collaboration and connection.

The seeds we planted last year are beginning to flourish. One exciting example is our partnership with the IIBA Brussels Chapter—the community of Business Analysts. This year, we’ll co-host two joint events, exploring the powerful synergy between our disciplines, using both the PMBOK and the BABOK as guiding frameworks.

While in Barcelona, we also connected with the Netherlands and Luxembourg Chapters to begin preparing for the upcoming BENELUX Summit 2025. Yes, it’s happening—a dedicated PMI Benelux Day to strengthen regional collaboration and build bridges across borders.

This year’s theme, “Project Management in the AI Era: Bridging Precision, Creativity, and Innovation,” sets the stage for a unique and timely conversation. But it won’t stop at the technical. We’ll also dive into the human dimension of project management.

Because while AI is transforming our world, we must ask: What about the human? Empathy, judgment, trust, connection—these are the things no algorithm can replace. AI can support human needs, but it’s people who give AI meaning and purpose. In that partnership lies true progress.

Let’s keep building, dreaming, and making a difference—together, as one community.

With smiling greetings,

Anja Vandenbergh, PMP
President, PMI Belgium

Looking for a meaningful way to grow both personally and professionally? Volunteering with us is your chance to collaborate, learn, and make an impact in our dynamic project management community.

We’re currently welcoming new volunteers for roles including:

• Assistant Director of Professional Development
• Social Media Specialist
• Content Writer & Editor
• Visual Content Creator
• Marketing Specialist

Whether you’re eager to build new skills, expand your network, or contribute your talents, there’s a place for you on our team.

👉 Explore the available roles [here] or reach out to us directly if you’d like to get involved. We can’t wait to hear from you!

Gert Van Hoecke
Director of Volunteering, PMI Belgium

Connect – Learn – Grow

"The delicate balance of mentoring someone is not creating them in your own image, but giving them the opportunity to create themselves."
— Steven Spielberg

What Is the PMI Mentorship Program?

The PMI Belgium Chapter Mentorship Program is a structured initiative aimed at supporting both personal and professional development. It connects experienced project professionals (mentors) with aspiring or growing practitioners (mentees), fostering a collaborative environment of learning and growth.

What the program offers:

• One-on-one mentoring relationships
• Development of soft skills and PMI’s Talent Triangle competencies
• Career guidance and professional growth support
• Networking opportunities and the ability to earn PDUs

Program Objectives

• Build meaningful mentor-mentee relationships
• Encourage personal and professional growth through shared experiences
• Strengthen leadership and coaching capabilities among mentors
• Empower mentees with individualized guidance

Interested in Becoming a Mentor?

Eligibility:

• Active member of the PMI Belgium Chapter
• Holder of a PMI Certification (e.g., PMP®)

Commitment:

• Participate in monthly mentoring sessions (in-person or virtual) over 6 months
• Offer guidance, encouragement, and practical insights
• Complete a brief exit survey for program feedback

What’s in it for you?

• Share your experience and give back to the community
• Enhance your leadership and mentoring skills
• Make a lasting impact on someone’s career journey

Looking to Become a Mentee?

Eligibility:

• Active PMI member (preferably affiliated with the Belgium Chapter)

Commitment:

• Attend monthly sessions (in-person or virtual) for 6 months
• Take initiative and manage the mentoring relationship proactively
• Be open to feedback and dedicated to self-improvement

What you’ll gain:

• Personalized career guidance
• Real-world insights into project management
• A broader professional network

Program Overview

• Duration: 6 months
• Meetings: Monthly sessions (1–2 hours)
• Format: In-person or virtual, as mutually agreed
• Kick-off: Orientation to launch the mentoring cycle
• Closure: Wrap-up session to reflect and share feedback

Ready to Join?

Apply Now: contact us at professional.development@pmi-belgium.be

Share – Support – Succeed

Embark on a journey of growth and collaboration with the PMI Belgium Chapter Mentorship Program. Whether you're looking to guide others or seeking guidance yourself, this program is your gateway to professional development and meaningful connections.

Paolo Alagna
Director of Professional Development, PMI Belgium

A couple of weeks ago, we organized a unique teambuilding event with the trainers from my Academic & Educational Outreach (AEO) team for the Project Management trainings we offer in partnership with VDAB. Rather than opting for a traditional dinner, we chose an activity that put our project management knowledge into practice—a live cooking workshop.

Under the guidance of Renate from De Plek in Aalst, we rolled up our sleeves and tackled a culinary challenge: preparing a full Scandinavian-themed menu together, including starters, appetizers, a main course, and dessert. But this was more than just cooking—it was project management in action.

We approached the evening just like a real project:

• Scope: Defined by the recipe
• Schedule: Coordinating different cooking times so each dish was ready at the right moment
• Cost: Covered and managed in advance
• Quality: Tasted and adjusted throughout—commissioning never tasted so good
• Resources: We discovered each other’s hidden talents along the way
• Communication: Collaboration was essential to getting everything ready on time
• Risk Management: Trusting the process, and adapting as needed
• Procurement: Consulting regularly with our ‘sponsor’ and guide, head chef Renate
• Stakeholders: Chef Renate and the entire cooking team

It was a fun, delicious, and surprisingly educational evening that reminded us how project management principles can apply in all kinds of contexts. This time, we learned through laughter, teamwork, and the joy of a shared meal.

Geert Cloostermans
Director of Academic & Educational Outreach (NL), PMI Belgium

On International Women’s Day, March 8th, 15 inspiring women gathered in Antwerp for a day of connection and growth. We explored the principles of Ayurveda and learned how to communicate with authenticity and strength. The day ended joyfully with a laughter session in the park—hearts light, spirits lifted.

Each of the 15 women shared a single word to describe their experience:

I knew that other European Chapters were also celebrating Women’s Day with their own activities. But what sets our Women in Project Management Community apart is the vision I hold: not just a single event, but a continuous wave of connection and empowerment. A space where women of all ages, backgrounds, and experience levels can uplift one another.

At the Global Summit Series (GSS) in Barcelona, I attended a powerful session focused on Women in Project Management, where speakers like Laura and Yasmina Khelifi shared their journeys and the challenges they faced as leaders. The message was clear: it all starts with the right mindset—own it. No one else will do it for you. And by owning our path, we naturally become role models, inspiring the next generation of women leaders.

One quote that truly stuck with me was: “Go from Bee Queen Syndrome to Sisterhood.” When I shared this in our WhatsApp group, Jennifer Sabine joked, “That’s a great title for your book, Anja.” I laughed—then paused. That right there is empowerment too. A spark of encouragement, a gentle nudge toward believing in what’s possible.

Truthfully, I had another book idea in mind: “The Yellow Car Strategy – An Easy Way to Happiness.” For those who know me, you’ve probably heard of it. When I feel overwhelmed or stressed, I look for yellow cars. Why yellow cars? No deep reason—just a moment of brightness, a reason to smile. Sometimes, joy is the most empowering strategy of all.

Jennifer wasn’t just making a joke—she was genuinely encouraging other women to engage with our community. Her passion was contagious. That same energy led Anna from the Austria Chapter to join our WhatsApp group.

Ayse was also at the GSS in Barcelona. We caught up on all kinds of topics. One moment I’ll never forget: sitting together in the garden of the conference venue, I guided her through a short meditation. Suddenly, a soft mist from a nearby fountain sprinkled over us. We laughed like children, grateful for that unexpected gift—tiny droplets that felt like blessings.

Back home, our weekly LadiesTalk sessions—Wednesdays at lunchtime—have become a cherished ritual. A space for connection, reflection, and support. One week, I couldn’t host the call while traveling. I felt a wave of guilt, worrying I had let the others down. But the following week, I was met only with kindness. Some had used the time to enjoy a sunny walk. No one was upset—and that’s exactly what this community is about. Not perfection or pressure, but presence, compassion, and joy.

During our most recent LadiesTalk, I expressed my deep gratitude to everyone. We closed the session with a beautiful gesture—the Namasté greeting, bowing to each other in mutual respect and recognition.

Renuka added depth to the moment by explaining what Namasté truly means. It’s more than a gesture—it’s a profound acknowledgment of the light within each of us. During the COVID period, when handshakes were discouraged, many adopted Namasté as a respectful, non-contact greeting. Even in the world of Laughter Yoga, Namasté holds a special place—we bow, we laugh, and we connect, not just through movement, but through shared presence and joy.

Would you like to join the Women in Project Management Community? Want to know when our next event is?

Send a message to Anja, our chapter president and founder of this vibrant community.

With smiling greetings,

Anja Vandenbergh – Laughter Fairy
Founder of Women in Project Management Community

TL;DR: Get the abridged version.

Cialdini is an expert, an expert in compliance? Perhaps. An expert in Influence? It looks like it.
An expert in relativity theory: most certainly. The man bends and stretches space with great skill.

Do not take this to mean that the book is worthless.
On the contrary, it contains a lot of good advice.
What it also contains is a lot of convoluted arguments built to surprise you with the obvious, anecdotes and references to justify arguments that didn't need it, and rehashing of the greatest order.
After 450 pages that could have been 50, here is a review to justify my advice of reading an abridged version, abridged by someone else.

Influence is a book about all the ways in which we can increase agreement from others using tips and tricks, from the most honest, to the most dishonest.
To be honest, in fact, it would take extreme task orientation to be unswayed by the methods in this book. What may even be described as being on the autism spectrum.

The book begins with a short and sweet introductive chapter describing pull-and-release tactics, negotiation anchors, as well as preferential attachment.
Follows with a chapter on reciprocation, and how little gifts can spiral into great benefits, even by staging failures to have opportunities to make gifts.
In this chapter we also expand on the pull and release method in negotiations.

The chapter on social proof is perhaps the most important.
With elements such as Multi Level Marketing, the ease of accepting and difficulty of rejecting offers by close ones, as well as leveraging the grapevine, it holds solid elements to improve your stakeholder management.
It also develops on the preferential attachment principle without naming it, or why using good pictures makes others like our ideas more, and how isolation people makes it easier to get compliance.

The chapter on authority, although mildly offsprung from social proof, tells of the effect of social hierarchy, and how it brings natural compliance.
It describes how to use titles, the halo effect, and imperfect reviews, and external signs of success to gain easy compliance.
Thus, it explains the big gars, rolexes, fancy suits, and the most careful control of image that we see, including on linkedin and in corporate competition.

Scarcity is another great chapter, though it devolves into more social competition and proof.
This "principle" is all about loss aversion (2-3 times stronger than desire for more) and competition (social proof/status).
By applying the idea of scarcity or exclusivity, in time, in stock, in features, in products, in geography, we can gain interest.
Even more interesting, claiming that products or information about products is banned seems to increase the perceived trustability, testifying to the modern social distrust.
These elements can be used to tremendous effects together to bring snap decisions.

The section on commitment and consistency, while great, is where coherence flies out the window in an effort to reach warmer shores.
Here the author entirely bypasses the difficult relation between consistency and discipline.
Nevertheless he makes good points on our drive to consistency, and how when we give small commitments, we become increasingly susceptible to agree for the sake of it. You may know this as the "foot through the door" technique.
Here we see another issue: should we pull and retreat, or slip through the door? There is no clear view on where which works, or how they play together.
THe social part of consistency is also effectively ddescribed, particularly how publicising commitments forces people into compliance, such as was the cast in communist camps, or in religious sects, or... in vendor lock-in.

The section of unity, new in the expanded edition, feels exactly that, botched.
A major rehash of the section on social proof, and a weak adaptation of scientific research on in vs out group preference.
Its advice is visible in many team building events done in bad faith, and finishes with a weak tirade on world peace which was probably mandated to appeal to a new crowd.

The last section on the digital age was also slapped right on top, with more elements of social proof and social media that would better fit before.

Overall, I hate having had to spend so much time on such low quality writing and composition, but I still recommend to review the content.
And for this I recommend you to find an abirdged version, to reward the content, but not the form. For an ultra condensed version, just ask me for my notes?

Joachim Dehais, PhD, PMP, TOGAF, CCBA
VP Members & Volunteers, PMI Switzerland

This article reflects the personal opinions and interpretations of the author regarding Influence – New and Expanded by Robert Cialdini. It does not represent the official position of PMI Belgium Chapter or PMI Global. Readers are encouraged to share their own perspectives and engage in constructive discussion

The world feels significantly different since my last contribution to the PMI Belgium newsletter in December 2024.

Global developments are accelerating, and shifts in economic dynamics are becoming more pronounced, with potential impacts on national & regional markets and the environment.

We are also witnessing concerning examples of leadership that lack respect and integrity in various spheres.

Amidst this whirlwind of change, it’s easy to feel isolated and powerless - and I’ve certainly experienced that feeling myself.

Yet, as project professionals, we possess the skills essential for navigating and delivering change successfully.

We should find reassurance in the fact that change brings new opportunities - and in our unique ability to help shape that change for the better.

PMI’s Code of Ethics and Professional Conduct

In times when many of the values we hold dear are being tested, I find it helpful to reflect on what it truly means to be a professional. As members of the project management community and PMI credential holders, our ethical foundation is clearly outlined in the PMI Code of Ethics and Professional Conduct which contains some key principles that guide our behaviour:

• Responsibility: We make decisions and take actions based on the best interests of society, public safety, and the environment.
• Respect: We show a high regard for ourselves, others, and the resources entrusted to us which may include people, money, reputation, the safety of others, and natural or environmental resources.
• Fairness: We make decisions and act impartially and objectively. Our conduct must be free from competing self-interest, prejudice, and favouritism.
• Honesty: We understand the truth and act in a truthful manner both in our communications and in our conduct.

These principles not only define who we are as professionals but also help us navigate challenges with clarity and confidence.

I am proud to be a professional and totally agree with the PMI's ethical code.

I express my professionalism through my membership of the PMI as a Project Professional as well as my membership of the Institute of Engineering and Technology as a Chartered Engineer.

Examples of Ethical Alignment in Practice

To illustrate how ethical principles can be reflected (or challenged) in real-world scenarios, I’d like to share a couple of contrasting examples through the lens of PMI’s values, particularly Honesty and Responsibility.

One example that raises questions about alignment with these values is the removal of references to climate change from certain public websites. This action could be viewed as limiting access to scientific information, potentially affecting informed decision-making related to environmental and public well-being. While the organizations involved are not bound by PMI's Code of Ethics, such instances prompt valuable reflection on the role of transparency and accountability in professional conduct.

Conversely, a recent publication by the UK Government’s Climate Change Committee - the seventh carbon budget released in February 2025 - demonstrates an approach that may align more closely with PMI’s ethical principles. The report outlines a strategy for achieving net-zero emissions by 2050, supported by clear data, long-term planning, and transparency around economic impacts (estimated at an average of 0.2% of UK GDP annually). It serves as an example of how ethical considerations can guide complex, impactful decisions.

These contrasting cases offer an opportunity to reflect on how our values: Responsibility, Respect, Fairness, and Honesty, can inform the way we process information and contribute to responsible project leadership.

Connecting Ethics to Professional Experience

Over the course of my career, spanning more than 25 years since managing my first program, and over 35 years since my first project, I’ve seen first-hand how successful outcomes often emerge from a wide range of differing, and at times conflicting, perspectives. The role of the project professional is to harness these viewpoints and guide them toward a clear and effective path forward.

For example, between 2015 and 2017, I led the EMEA segment of a global migration program for an automotive company transitioning to a Microsoft 365 communications platform. One of our technical experts regularly questioned proposed solutions. Instead of viewing these challenges as obstacles, we documented the concerns in our risk log and designed the EMEA solution to account for and manage those risks. This process not only addressed local needs but also helped enhance the robustness of the global approach. It demonstrated how respectful engagement with differing views can ultimately lead to stronger, more resilient outcomes.

As the saying goes, an oyster forms a pearl in response to the irritation of a grain of sand, a reminder that constructive friction can lead to value.

Throughout our work, we may encounter situations that test the principles outlined in PMI’s Code of Ethics:

• When financial priorities are pursued without adequate regard for societal or environmental impacts
• When decision-making is driven more by volume than by dialogue
• When self-interest overrides objective evaluation
• When evidence and expertise are sidelined

As project professionals, it is both our responsibility and our professional right to recognize and thoughtfully address such challenges - guided by the values of Responsibility, Respect, Fairness, and Honesty.

Staying positive

So how do we stay positive during these challenging times?

Here are some ideas:

• Follow the PMI code of ethics; get satisfaction from knowing that you are 'doing the right thing' and setting a good example.
• Don't compromise what's important: If your organization expects you to compromise your ethics then stand firm; if necessary, take your skills elsewhere.
• Trust experts: scientists help us to understand nature, we should listen to their voice; similarly, engineers help us understand how to apply science into practical, scalable solutions.
• Spend & invest wisely: you can choose what you buy and where you invest. When Europe needs to strengthen its global position, buying & investing sustainably and in Europe is one way to achieve this (e.g. I have recently re-invested the funds from my UK company pension to eliminate fossil fuel investments).
• Participate: PMI's flagship publication: The Standard for Project Management / Project Management Body of Knowledge (PMBOK® Guide) is undergoing revision, and the 8th edition will be published later this year. We can all participate in the review process (which runs until 2 June 2025.)
• Talk about it: personally, I find it reassuring to share thoughts with others, we are not alone.

Of all these contributions, I think the most important consideration is to manage our projects based on the truth. If we lose track of truth, data & science-based approach, then not only are we fooling ourselves about the validity our work (hence putting success at risk), but we would also be supporting a concerning trend towards society being led by those who seek to personally gain from avoiding the truth.

Since my first draft of this article, it was great to see the positive news in April from the PMI Global Summit in Barcelona, of the Joint Venture between PMI and the Green Project Management (GPM) organisation. Dr Joel Carboni, the founder of GPM, published an excellent article "The End of Neutrality: Why Project Managers Must Lead with Ethical Clarity" which I think aligns closely with my views, shared in this article.

Together we can!

Stuart Thorp
Program Manager and Climate Activist, Stance Consulting

This article is based on PMI's Code of Ethics and Professional Conduct, but examples and commentary are the opinions of the author rather than representing the position of PMI at Belgium Chapter or Global level.

In Episode #15 of PM Untold—the podcast series brought to you by the PMI BeNeLux Chapters (Belgium, Netherlands, and Luxembourg)—we sit down with Diepak Kasi, a former IT and Telecom professional who made the bold decision to leave corporate life behind and launch into a new chapter as a leadership coach and trainer.

This episode explores the mindset, motivation, and strategy behind making such a leap—and how project management skills can be an unexpected but powerful ally in navigating career transformation.

What’s inside this episode?

✅ What triggered Diepak’s shift toward self-employment
✅ The method he uses to assess career direction
✅ How project management prepared him for entrepreneurial life
✅ Strategies for managing risk, motivation, and work-life balance
✅ Candid advice for professionals considering a similar move

Diepak’s journey is one of reflection, resilience, and reinvention. Whether you're contemplating a career change or simply curious about what lies beyond the 9–5, this episode offers practical insight and personal inspiration in equal measure.

🎧 Listen now:

• Spotify
• YouTube

💡 Don’t forget—you can also claim PDUs by tuning in!

Tim Gaens
Director of Membership, PMI Belgium

In Episode #14 of PM Untold—the podcast series brought to you by the PMI BeNeLux Chapters (Belgium, Netherlands, and Luxembourg)—we have the pleasure of hosting Julia Khalyavko, an IT Project Manager at PwC Luxembourg and the Sponsorships Manager at WeSTEM+, an organization dedicated to supporting and inspiring women and underrepresented groups in STEM. Beyond her professional roles, Julia is also the founder of Bourgmeisterin, an initiative that helps people discover Luxembourg through compelling stories that weave together its past and present.

This episode dives into Julia’s unique perspective as a woman in project management, an advocate for diversity in tech, and an expat navigating life in Luxembourg. Whether you’re a project management professional, a woman in tech, or simply curious about expat life, Julia’s story offers inspiration and practical insights.

What’s inside this episode?

✅ The challenges Julia has faced as a project manager and how she overcame them
✅ Influential people who have shaped her career path
✅ Key qualities that define successful project managers
✅ Support networks and initiatives for women pursuing careers in STEM
✅ A glimpse into expat life in Luxembourg through Julia’s experiences

Julia’s journey highlights the importance of resilience, community, and passion in breaking barriers and building a fulfilling career.

🎧 Listen now:

• Spotify
• YouTube

💡 Remember, you can also claim PDUs by tuning in!

Tim Gaens
Director of Membership, PMI Belgium

The dates for an insightful webinar introducing the PMI Belgium Chapter to our esteemed new members! Discover the dynamic world of Project Management Institute (PMI) in Belgium, where expertise meets collaboration.

This engaging sessions will provide an overview of the chapter's mission, key initiatives, and the myriad benefits of being part of our vibrant community.

Learn about upcoming events, networking opportunities, and how PMI Belgium fosters professional growth. Whether you're a seasoned project manager or just starting your career, this webinar is your gateway to unlocking the full potential of your project management journey with PMI Belgium. 

Don't miss these chances to connect, learn, and thrive! 

Upcoming Sessions:

• Wednesday, March 12, 2025 | 8:00 PM - 9:00 PM
• New date: Wednesday, March 19, 2025 | 8:00 PM - 9:00 PM
• Wed 4/Jun/2025 8:00 PM - 9:00 PM​
• Wed 3/Sep/2025 8:00 PM - 9:00 PM​
• Wed 3/Dec/2025 8:00 PM - 9:00 PM​

Registration links will follow shortly

Tim Gaens
Director of Membership

Collaboration with the IIBA Brussels Chapter

Get ready to elevate your professional journey with 2 dynamic after-work events, co-hosted by PMI Belgium Chapter and IIBA Brussels Chapter, designed to sharpen your skills and expand your network.

1. Mastering Scope Management and Business Requirements
   Date: June 10, 2025 Venue: Randstad Digital, Leuven Time: 6:30 PM – 10:00 PM
   Dive deep into the essentials of scope management, focusing on strategies to prevent scope creep, and gain insights into effectively defining and managing business requirements. These topics are vital for steering projects to success by maintaining clear objectives and ensuring stakeholder alignment.
2. Project Management vs. Product Management: Bridging the Gap
   Date: October 14, 2025 Venue: Randstad Digital, Ghent Time: 6:30 PM – 10:00 PM
   Explore the distinctions and intersections between project management and product management. We'll discuss the unique skill sets, responsibilities, and collaborative approaches that drive value delivery to clients and stakeholders.

These events are more than just learning opportunities: they're a chance to connect with like-minded professionals, share experiences, and broaden your horizons in the fields of project management and business analysis.

Stay tuned for registration details and mark your calendars to ensure you don't miss out on these enriching sessions.

Slim Kchaou
Director of Events

In the latest episode of PM Untold, we dive into the human side of project management with the incredible Dr Elissa Farrow! 🌟
We often focus on frameworks, roadmaps, and metrics—but what about the people who make it all happen? Dr. Farrow brings a fresh perspective on leadership, change, and the emotional intelligence needed to thrive in PM.
🔹 How can PMs navigate uncertainty with empathy?
🔹 Why is adaptability the key to success?
🔹 What role does futures thinking play in project leadership?
This is a must-listen for project managers, leaders, and anyone passionate about the intersection of people and projects.
🎧 Tune in now to learn more about the human side in project management. Also don't forget to claim your PDUs:🎙Spotify,🎙YouTube

Special thanks to all who made this Podcast and this episode possible: Ana Felisberto, Bálint Dudás, Tim Gaens, Guzel Afanaseva, Guangyu Fu, Giuseppe DiMaria, Ditta Bezdán, Maria Hazir, Liz Hector, Ruth Hunter, Lynea Finn PMP, PMI Luxembourg Chapter 🇱🇺, PMI Belgium Chapter, PMI Netherlands Chapter, Project Management Institute
#ProjectManagement #Leadership #Podcast #PMUntold #HumanSideOfPM
Giuseppe DiMaria
Director of Finance

The New Book by Jan Van der Vurst

During the PM Fair, Jan Van der Vurst managed to inspire a full room with his energy and insights into stakeholders. His workshop was fully booked, and the participants were immersed in his vision on stakeholder management. Now he has bundled all that valuable knowledge in his latest book, Stakeholdering, which will be launched on February 27 in collaboration with Lannoo.

About the book

In Stakeholdering you will discover how to purposefully involve both internal and external stakeholders and let them actively contribute to your projects. What makes this book so special is the way it highlights not only the rational, but also the emotional aspects of stakeholder engagement.

📌 In part 1 you will learn to deal strategically with stakeholders: how to identify interests, build networks and strengthen involvement.

📌 In part 2 you dive into the challenges: dealing with resistance, power struggles and instinctive reactions - and how to transform these into positive collaboration.

With more than 200 practical tips, Stakeholdering is the hands-on guide for anyone who wants to build lasting relationships and make a real impact in a complex environment.

Don't miss the launch on February 27 and discover how you can take your stakeholder management to the next level!

The book will be presented on February 27 from 5:30 PM at the Ageas headquarters in Brussels. There will be a strong line-up to inspire you around this theme (see below).

Reserve your spot in advance via https://bit.ly/inschrijven-stakeholdering

THE PROGRAM

When: Thursday February 27, 2025

Where: Ageas, Bolwerklaan 21, 1210 Brussels

5:30 PM Reception

6:00 PM Start of book presentation

Welcome Niels Janssens, director-publisher Lannoo Campus.

Jan Van der Vurst presents his book.

Panel discussion with Hans De Cuyper (CEO Ageas), Steven Van Hoorebeke (board member and former CEO of SD Worx), Cato Léonard (co-founder G1000 & CEO Glassroots) and Jan Van der Vurst.

7:00 PM Network reception

Anja Vandenbergh, PMP
President PMI Belgium

ATTENTION: this book Launch is in Dutch

Mark Your Calendars for an Unforgettable Experience in Barcelona!

Join us in the vibrant city of Barcelona, Spain, for the second annual PMI® Global Summit Series Europe 2025! Taking place on 7-8 April 2025 at the stunning Palau de Congressos de Catalunya, this event is your gateway to connecting with project professionals from across the globe. Discover how maximizing project success can elevate our world while expanding your knowledge, sharpening your skills, and building lasting relationships.

Why Attend?

Earn PDUs while gaining insights into the latest trends shaping project management.
Strengthen your skillset with in-demand capabilities that employers and projects need.
Experience AI in action and learn how emerging technologies transform the project management landscape.
Expand your professional network by connecting with project leaders and peers from around the world.
Engage with solution providers offering tools and resources to tackle everyday project challenges.
Discover how your work as a project manager can make a meaningful impact on the world.

Don’t Miss Out! This is more than just an event—it’s a chance to be inspired, grow your network, and shape the future of project management. Save the date and join us in Barcelona for an unforgettable experience at PMI Global Summit Series Europe 2025!

Slim Kchaou
Director of Events

Join us on October 10, 2025, at MECC Maastricht, Netherlands, a premier venue for international events, for an exclusive experience where AI, leadership, and innovation shape the future of project management!

The PMI BENELUX Summit 2025 will unite over 500 professionals, experts, and thought leaders to explore the transformative forces shaping the future of project management—where innovation, precision, and creativity drive success.

A Dynamic and Inspiring Program

The summit offers a diverse mix of conferences, workshops, roundtable discussions, and an exclusive exhibition. Whether you're looking to gain new insights, connect with industry leaders, or explore the latest innovations, this event has something for you!

Key Industry Topics Across Multiple Sectors

The sessions will dive deep into topics shaping the future of project management across ICT, Telecom, Construction, Manufacturing, and many more industries. Expect discussions on (TBC):

• Artificial Intelligence and Project Management: How AI is transforming planning, execution, and decision-making.
• Agility in Complex Environments: Best practices for managing fast-paced, tech-driven projects.
• Emotional Intelligence & Leadership: Essential skills for managing diverse, high-performing teams.
• Sustainability in Project Management: Strategies to align with global environmental standards.
• Risk and Cybersecurity: Ensuring secure and resilient project execution in a digital era.

Hands-on Workshops for Practical Learning

Take your skills to the next level with our interactive workshops, designed to help you stay ahead in today’s fast-paced world. Explore key topics like Agile and Scrum for high-impact delivery, AI tools for smarter decision-making, financial and risk management for successful projects, design thinking for creative problem-solving, building resilient teams to tackle any challenge, and integrating sustainability into your projects for long-term success.

Exclusive Roundtable on Innovation in Project Management

Engage with industry pioneers as they discuss upcoming trends and share insights that will shape the future of project management.

An Exhibition Showcasing the Latest Innovations

Discover the most advanced tools, methodologies, and solutions revolutionizing project management. From cutting-edge software to AI-driven platforms, the exhibition is the perfect place to explore what’s next.

Sponsorship Opportunities: Boost Your Brand Visibility!

Maximize your brand’s reach through our tailored sponsorship packages:

• Gold Sponsor: Premier visibility, exclusive speaking slots, and top-tier branding.
• Silver Sponsor: Dedicated workshops and strong presence in promotional materials.
• Bronze Sponsor: Exhibit space and branding opportunities to enhance your industry impact.

Why Attend?

• Stay ahead with exclusive insights on AI and innovation.
• Network with top industry experts and decision-makers.
• Gain hands-on experience through practical workshops.
• Explore the latest cutting-edge solutions for project success.

Registration opens soon! Stay tuned and be among the first to secure your spot at this game-changing event:

Don’t miss out on this game-changing event! Secure your spot now and be part of the future of project management in the AI era!

The Events Team

The New Year’s reception meant also the start of rewarding the women in project management. On the 08^th of March, the International Women’s Day we organize an event to reward the women in project management.

Event date: 08 March 2025 – mark your agenda

During this event we will have different workshop let by women, expert in their area related to project management. This day will be more than just an event. It is the creation of a community where women can rely on, can share their stories without hesitation.

As a woman in project management, I had my battles to fight. I had to find my authenticity to be strong to set up my boundaries to avoid being overwhelmed by men. It might be that it was because I was working in industrial areas dominated by men: Metal industry, Automotive Industry, Pharmaceutical industry.

My battles are the inspiration of the topics that can lead to great discussions, learnings in this community:

When finding my authenticity by using laughter and breathing I could stand up easier, giving my opinion without losing my authenticity.  Last week I had several inspirational calls with women in leaders’ positions who embrace the idea of the community and are willing to contribute, to collaborate with you to make this community a place where women can become stronger and be motivated and become an inspiration for our next generation.

The 08 March 2025 is creating a strong base that will be the ripple to grow and to have on 08 March 2026 the first Women in Project management Conference.  Every woman is welcome to join this community. This community is for you, by you and together we can.

Today we have already a WhatsApp group : WomenInProject Management.

Working towards the event on the 08 March 2025, we will have a 30-minute session called LadiesTalk

LadiesTalk

Every Wednesday from 08:00am to 08:30am to boost your day, to talk, to connect and to inspire.

Let me know if you want to join this weekly LadiesTalk.

Women are Power!

Would you like to join the WhatsApp group and Weekly LadiesTalk, contact: Anja, your president to start your journey in the WiPM community.

Anja Vandenbergh, PMP
President PMI Belgium

As of February 2025, the Project Management Institute (PMI) is actively working on the Eighth Edition of the PMBOK® Guide. This update is designed to reflect modern industry practices and emerging trends, ensuring it remains relevant in today's fast-changing project management landscape.

What’s Changing?

PMI has proposed several key updates, including:

• Updated terminology and definitions to match current industry standards.
• Refined processes to offer better guidance on project methodologies and job responsibilities.
• Expanded coverage of Process Groups to provide a more comprehensive project management framework.
• Improved Project Principles and Performance Domains for greater clarity and practical use.
• Simplified Inputs, Outputs, Tools, and Techniques (ITTOs) to make them more practical and easier to apply.

These changes aim to streamline project management practices and align the guide with real-world applications.

When Will It Be Released?

As of now, PMI has not officially announced a release date for the PMBOK® Guide – Eighth Edition. However, PMI typically updates the guide every four to five years, with the last edition (Seventh Edition) released in August 2021. Based on this timeline, the new edition is expected in the near future, but no exact date has been confirmed.

We’ll keep an eye out for updates from PMI and share any official announcements as soon as they become available!

Paolo Alagna

Director of Professional Development

professional.development@pmi-belgium.be

Entering the 2^nd month of the year, I’m grateful for the connections made in 2024, as they are the start for the deeper connection.

The previous month we started setting the frame with a great New Year’s Reception. We changed the concept of formal presentation to an interactive format “Mingle – jingle”. This interactive format was much appreciated by the attendees, who could combine networking, listening to the roadmap 2025.

With the new board 2025-2026 we are lighting the way for our members to get inspired and to connect with each other.

2025 is

• the start for our enrollment with Single Membership Fee. Our vice-president, Pierre Van de Leemput has been assigned as project manager for this project and will update you in the coming months on the WHAT – WHY and the benefits of the Single Membership Fee.
• a MORE collaboration with schools and universities to inspire the next generation, to introduce them to the world of Project Management.
• Aiming for MORE members, welcoming our new members in onboarding sessions to get to know the PMI Belgium chapter and what is in for them
• Launching the GROWTH program, connecting mentors and mentees to help mentees in development of their career
• the ripple effect for the Women in Project Management community which dedicated workshops, webinars to inspire, to embrace women, to unlock their potential talent, skills
• Collaborating with other European PMI Chapters by inviting speakers for webinars

As you see 2025 is a year for you and within the chapter we will provide you with the necessary items, topics, that you need so that you are proud to be a member of the PMI Belgium Chapter.

With smiling greetings,

Anja Vandenbergh, PMP
President PMI Belgium

PMI has officially launched the PMO Certified Professional (PMI-PMOCP)™ on February 4, 2025!

This brand-new certification is a major step forward for PMO professionals, providing them with practical tools, proven strategies, and valuable insights to lead customer-focused, high-impact PMOs.

The PMI-PMOCP™ is built on the latest PMI publication, Project Management Offices: A Practice Guide, developed with input from hundreds of experienced PMO leaders and industry experts worldwide. The guide introduces the PMO Value Ring™ Framework, a groundbreaking approach that helps PMO professionals turn their offices into strategic, customer-driven teams that deliver real business value.

The PMI-PMOCP™ builds upon the PMO Certified Practitioner (PMO-CP) certification, which PMI acquired from PMO Global Alliance (PMOGA) in December 2023. It has been completely redesigned to meet the demands of today’s business landscape, equipping professionals to build and lead high-performing, value-driven PMOs.

Why Get PMI-PMOCP™ Certified?

The PMI-PMOCP™ certification is a game-changer for PMO professionals, offering

• Recognition as a PMO expert – Stand out in a competitive job market with a globally respected PMI credential.
• Strategic career growth – Open doors to leadership opportunities and career advancement.
• Proof of real-world skills – The exam is designed based on industry best practices and global PMO standards, ensuring you are tested on practical, job-ready knowledge.
• Alignment with evolving PMO trends – The certification is built on the PMO Value Ring™ Framework, helping you implement modern, value-driven PMOs.
• A certification that adapts to all industries – Whether you work in IT, finance, healthcare, or construction, this credential validates your ability to build a PMO tailored to any organization’s needs.
• Increased earning potential – PMI certifications are known to boost salaries and career growth, making this a valuable investment in your future.

Who Should Get PMI-PMOCP™ Certified?

This certification is perfect for:

• PMO Leaders & Directors – Those responsible for designing and leading PMO strategy.
• PMO Team Members – Professionals working within a PMO, looking to enhance their expertise.
• Project Managers & Coordinators – Those wanting to transition into a PMO role or increase their knowledge of governance and portfolio management.
• Consultants & Business Leaders – Experts who guide organizations in establishing and optimizing PMOs.

If you’re involved in PMO management, strategy, or governance, the PMI-PMOCP™ will enhance your ability to lead successful PMO transformations.

PMI-PMOCP™ Exam Structure & Key Domains

The PMI-PMOCP™ exam consists of 120 multiple-choice questions with a 165-minute time limit.

The exam tests real-world PMO skills, including:

• Designing PMOs that align with business strategy
• Implementing effective governance structures
• Managing PMO performance & optimizing value delivery
• Leading and mentoring PMO teams
• Developing customer-centric PMO services

PMI-PMOCP™ Certification Requirements

To be eligible for the PMI-PMOCP™, you must have:

Education & Experience

• At least 3 years of project-related experience (OR a PMP certification)
• 10 hours of formal PMO-specific training
• PMI will offer an on-demand exam prep course to help candidates meet the training requirement.

How to Apply for PMI-PMOCP™

1. Submit your application online at PMI.org. You’ll have 90 days to complete and edit your application.
2. Once approved, pay the exam fee and schedule your test.
3. Take the 120-question exam either in-person at a testing center or online with a proctor.
4. Pass the exam and earn your PMI-PMOCP™ certification! 🎉

Transitioning from PMO-CP to PMI-PMOCP™

If you hold the PMO Certified Practitioner (PMO-CP) credential, PMI is offering a seamless transition to PMI-PMOCP™ at no additional cost in Q1 2025.

• No new exam required
• Submit a brief application confirming your experience
• Maintain certification by earning 30 PDUs every three years

Upon opting in, you’ll receive:

• A new PMI-PMOCP™ digital certificate
• A PMI-PMOCP™ Credly badge

If you choose not to opt in, your PMO-CP remains valid with no renewal fees.

Exam Preparation & Study Resources

PMI recommends the following study materials:

• PMI PMO Practice Guide – PMI Standards & Publications
•  PMBOK Guide 7th Edition – Project Management Guide
• PMI Authorized On-Demand Exam Prep Course

Paolo Alagna
Director of Professional Development

One of the Academic and Outreach team’s objectives in 2025 is to develop relationships with universities and high schools in the French part of the country.  We are starting full steam in a few weeks as we will attend the “Journées de l’industrie” on March 4^th at the UCLouvain university in Louvain-la-Neuve. 

This forum is organized by 5 university faculties with the purpose of bringing students in contact with hiring companies. It is the “place to be” for graduating students to meet companies is a perfect opportunity for PMI to promote our capabilities to students but also to companies eager to find contacts in the industry with Project Management knowledge. 

As far as PMI Belgium chapter is concerned, our objectives for this event is manyfold :

1. Promote PMI to the student community and make them sensitive to the integral approach that PMI is proposing. We had the opportunity to review the Project Management program currently proposed by Polytechnique et Louvain-School of Management (LSM) and are convinced that we have great added value on top of the current way PM is proposed to students
2. Contact University Professors involved in Project Management who we have identified and with whom we could start a collaboration.
3. Contact companies attending the event looking for ways to improve their project management skills. UCLouvain currently announces around 150 companies present for this fair. We are looking forward to successful meetings in all domains.

The event will take place on the Louvain-la-Neuve campus close to the auditorium Croix-du-Sud – Details can be found on the links below with the exact location.   Access is free for students, and anyone interested in paying us a visit there.

Baudouin Boreux
Director of Academic & Educational Outreach FR

PMI Belgium and VDAB (Vlaamse Dienst voor Arbeidsbemiddeling en Beroepsopleiding) have been working together to provide workshops on project management. 

Before March 2020 these workshops were hosted onsite at locations of the VDAB. The course material was developed by enthusiastic and passionate project managers during their “free” time. 

The project covered during the workshop is the preparation of a big event for the inhabitants of Happy Town to celebrate 100 years of their village. The main sponsor is the mayor of Happy Town, who wants to be re-elected. 

The workshops try to help the attendees in finding a new job in the field of project management. 

The workshops have been delivered remotely from January 2021. Since then, PMI Belgium has provided certificates of attendance to 274 students. 

The overall satisfaction of the attendees is 4,5 out of 5. The attendees appreciate the professionalism of the workshop facilitators. 

The workshop is delivered during 3 sessions in the evening, each lasting 3 hours. 

We are still looking for volunteers to join the team of enthusiastic and passionate project managers to deliver the workshops. 

If interested, please don’t hesitate to contact us via one of the emails below

• geert.cloostermans@pmi-belgium.be
• VDABCoordinator@pmi-belgium.be 

Geert Cloostermans
Director of Academic & Educational Outreach NL

As we step into 2025, we want to take a moment to express our heartfelt gratitude to each of you for being an essential part of the PMI Belgium chapter. This new year brings with it endless possibilities, and we hope it will be a year of MORE—more knowledge, more connections, and more curiosity.

Why M.O.R.E.? 

M => Manage Knowledge is about creating, sharing, and leveraging information to drive success and innovation. It’s the process of capturing insights, best practices, and lessons learned, and ensuring that valuable knowledge is accessible to the right people at the right time. By effectively managing knowledge, organizations and individuals can make smarter decisions, avoid repeating mistakes, foster collaboration, and stay ahead of the curve. Embrace knowledge management as a tool for continuous improvement, growth, and empowerment, enabling you to unlock new opportunities and achieve sustainable success 

O => Opportunity is about embracing every moment as a chance to grow, both personally and professionally. It’s about building meaningful relationships, gaining new perspectives, and collaborating with others to drive innovation and positive change. Connecting with peers and mentors opens doors to fresh ideas, while continuously seeking ways to improve helps us refine our skills and broaden our horizons. Learning is the foundation of progress, enabling us to adapt, innovate, and stay ahead in an ever-changing world. Seize every opportunity to connect, improve, and learn, and watch as it transforms your journey toward greater success and fulfillment.

R => relationships is about forming authentic connections that inspire trust, collaboration, and mutual growth. It’s through meaningful relationships that we exchange ideas, share experiences, and create opportunities for personal and professional development. Strong relationships provide the foundation for success, offering support during challenges and celebrating achievements together. By investing in relationships, we not only enrich our own lives but also contribute to a collective journey of learning, improvement, and innovation. Embrace every opportunity to build and nurture relationships, as they are the key to unlocking lasting success and a fulfilling journey.

E => Embrace is about unlocking the potential for progress and innovation. Seeking out new information, staying curious, and learning from both successes and setbacks allow us to evolve and adapt.  When stepping outside our comfort zones, we take calculated risks and open ourselves to new paths. By fostering strong, authentic connections, we create a network of trust, encouragement, and mutual benefit. Relationships enable us to exchange ideas, gain fresh perspectives, and build the partnerships necessary to achieve both personal and professional aspirations.

With one of the PMI Values : Together, we can , we continue to expand our expertise, deepen our networks, and embrace new opportunities for growth and learning. 

Let’s make 2025 a year of exploration, collaboration, and shared success. Whether through professional development, networking events, or simply sharing insights, we’re excited about the knowledge we’ll acquire and the connections we’ll build as a chapter.

Thank you for your dedication and passion. Here’s to a year full of MORE growth, curiosity, and new possibilities!

Wishing you a very Happy New Year filled with inspiration and success!

With smiling greetings,
Anja Vandenbergh
President of PMI Belgium

🎙️ New Episode Alert! 🎙️

As the holiday season approaches 🎄 🥂 🎇 , join us for an inspiring end-of-year reflection with 🌞 Anja Vandenbergh🧚‍♀️, President of PMI Belgium Chapter, and Richard Woodham, President of PMI Luxembourg Chapter 🇱🇺.
In this episode, we explore:
-Standout achievements of 2024
-Overcoming challenges within PMI chapters
-Untold stories from their careers
-Goals for 2025
Invaluable advice for project managers to thrive in the new year
Tune in for insights, inspiration, and actionable wisdom for the PM community.
Listen now on:
Spotify: https://lnkd.in/ebpNmiHs
YouTube: https://lnkd.in/e8erZbr8
Special thanks to all who made this episode possible: Samantha Dula, Ana Felisberto, Bálint Dudás, Tim Gaens, Guangyu Fu, Giuseppe DiMaria, Guzel Afanaseva, Ditta Bezdán, Maria Hazir, Liz Hector, Ruth Hunter, Lynea Finn PMP, Altea Barbato.
#PMIBelgiumChapter #PMILuxembourgChapter #EndOfYearReflection #Projects

#RegisterNow: Click this link

On 28 January 2025 the PMI Belgium Chapter celebrates the new year 2025!

Together with a new board of directors we present to you the different events for 2025 that will provide you with MORE knowledge, MORE connection, MORE curiosity. 

We highlight the different events in 2024 that led to sharing knowledge, embracing curiosity, and connecting with others.  The year 2024 was about you finding your way to a home. A place where you can reload your energy, can be inspired by others to resolve issues and manage more successfully projects.

2025 is a new year!

2025 is a new board of directors!

2025 is the place for you to become more successful in project management!

A group of directors that stepped forward to reshape the future of PMI Belgium Chapter. When I contacted them for the elections, I was confident that they will change the vibe within the chapter. I already felt great energy during the R&D PPM Day at GSK. 

You want to feel their energy!

You want to be submerged in this magical vibe!

Join Anja, President of PMI Belgium Chapter for learning about this amazing, magical 2025! 

A big thanks to our Sponsors: Prosource, Odisee and EHSAL Management School

#PMIBelgium #NewYearReception #ProjectManagement #Community

Summary :

The Start2Drone event aims to introduce participants to the world of drones, focusing on their recreational and professional applications.

It will highlight the potential of drone technology while addressing the technical, legal and operational aspects necessary for safe and responsible use.

Why a chapter event on drones?

Drones are revolutionizing project management by improving planning, monitoring and reporting with real-time data and accurate mapping. Beyond professional use, their versatility extends to personal applications such as marketing, inspections and hobbies, making them invaluable tools for work and life.

Program highlights:

• Overview of different types of drones, their features, and recent technological advances.
• Presentations of drones used in photography, agriculture, security, mapping, and other industries.
• Drone operation, basic maintenance, and troubleshooting.
• Explanations of the regulatory framework governing drone use, aimed at both hobbyists and professionals.
• A live test session where attendees can observe and assist with a drone demonstration
• Networking opportunities with experts and attendees to foster collaboration and innovation on drone-related projects.

Target audience:

The event is aimed at technology enthusiasts, professionals looking to integrate drones into their business, and hobbyists who want to learn more about this growing field.

Agenda:

• 6:00 PM: Welcome and Registration
• 6:30 PM: Presentation (60 minutes)
• 7:30 PM: Q&A (30 minutes)
• 8:00 PM: Break and Discussion (15 minutes)
• 8:15 PM: Small Drone Test Demonstration (TBC, 30 minutes) *
• 8:45 PM: Closure (15 minutes)

* Weather permitting, a short outdoor demonstration may also be included. 

Click here for the Registration link 

Slim Kchaou

PMI Belgium Chapter Director of Events

Boost Your Career with a 25% Discount on Our PMP® Certification Course (French)

Wishing you a prosperous 2025!

Ready to elevate your project management skills?

For a limited time, PMI Belgium members can enjoy a 25% discount on our upcoming virtual PMP® exam prep course delivered entirely in French.

Why PMP®?

• Enhance your career prospects: The PMP® is globally recognized, increasing your earning potential and opening doors to new opportunities.
• Gain valuable skills: Develop a robust framework for successful project management, including planning, execution, monitoring, and control.
• Stand out from the competition: Demonstrate your expertise and commitment to professional development.

Don't miss this exclusive offer!

Use code NEWYEARS at checkout to unlock your 25% discount: Course Link

Special thanks to Clémentine DARCAS and the International Institute for Learning (IIL) for making this exclusive offer possible!

#PMP #ProjectManagement #Certification #ProfessionalDevelopment #CareerGrowth #PMIBelgium

Looking for something short, sweet, and that is a good inventory of decision making tools? This book will make you that much happier.

Eminently simple in concept, this book contains 50 different graphical and verbal systems to structure your thoughts and make decision.

The finest and perhaps most logical addition this book gives is a map of other tools, according to whether you are working towards yourself or others, and whether you wish to understand or act.

Based on this, you are free to browse classical tools such as:

- the Eisenhower matrix for prioritisation

- the SWOT analysis for strategy setting.

- The prisoner's dilemma to understand conflict and group decisions

- Retrospective tools to avoid repeating mistakes

- The Hershey-Blanchard system to manage collaborators according to experience.

- The Uffe-Elbaek and Johari principles to understand ourselves and how others perceive us.

While the book adds little in terms of content, it provides simple explanations to recurrent problems and how to solve them.

This alone makes it useful as a quick reference for when you are indecisive, like a dictionary of tools. Remains only to remember to use it.

Since my last article (3 months ago) the pattern of Climate Change related extreme weather events has sadly continued, if not accelerated, as predicted by climate science.

With a disappointing outcome from the recent COP29 in Azerbaijan, it would be easy to feel discouraged about the prospects for anything like the level of commitment and funding we need towards either mitigation of Climate Change or adaptation to Climate Change.

Whilst I share the disappointment, recent world events have reinforced for me that we can't "stand back" and hope that governments will fix this for us.  Whilst we should continue to push for international and national policy change, we clearly cannot leave this to governments and so the best way forward is for us all to do what we can to tackle this crisis.

We can take personal action, but we can be much more impactful through our roles as project professionals, and even more impactful if we do this together as the project professional community and as members of the PMI.

Recent Climate Change related events

Unfortunately, there are many examples that I could share from the last 3 months about disasters caused by extreme weather, made more likely by Climate Change.

These events include:

There have, of course, been many more events globally.

The event in Spain was particularly significant as the "blocked" weather system led to 1 years’ worth of rain falling in one day, with catastrophic impact.

This year in Belgium will be the wettest ever, as announced by the Belgian weather service (KMI), and this is just up to the end of November! By the end of December, it is likely that records will significantly be exceeded. It is interesting to note that this is due to the high number of days with heavy rainfall - an indicator of more extreme weather (again as predicted by climate science).

COP29

COP29 took place 11 - 24 Nov 2024 in Baku, Azerbaijan.  This is the key annual event where nations come together to review progress on Climate Mitigation and Adaptation, the need for progress was high; however, the conference outcomes have left many disappointed.

Countries failed to reach an agreement on how the outcomes of last year’s “global stock-take”, including a key pledge to transition away from fossil fuels, should be taken forward.

“Developed” nations have agreed to help channel “at least” $300bn a year into developing countries by 2035 to support their efforts to deal with climate change; however, the talks nearly collapsed as developing nations were expecting 4 times this total, in line with IPCC reports.

The talks were marred from the start with the conference president being accused of promoting the oil & gas interests of Azerbaijan. Subsequently there were reports of the presidency allowing a Saudi Arabian delegate to make direct changes to a negotiating text being circulated, a violation of the normal conference protocol.

One area of agreement related to carbon markets - hence finalising all elements of the Paris Agreement (however, this was 10 years after the original agreement and clearly not at the pace required to meet the Paris Agreement targets).  

One highlight from COP29 was a tremendous speech from a true climate leader: Al Gore (well worth spending 4 mins to watch this summary video).

It is becoming increasingly clear that the "COP" process alone is not adequate to drive the required change, at the required rate; whilst non state actors were always going to have to do a lot, that burden is clearly increasing as COP fails to make the required progress.

Climate Fresk

One way in which we can act is through raising awareness of Climate Change.

The PMI European cross-chapter Climate Fresk initiative has progressed throughout 2024 with monthly cross-chapter workshops in addition to many workshops organised within chapters. We have seen a total of 145 attendees, across 26 PMI chapters with member attendance split as follows:

In PMI Belgium Chapter, we started 2024 well with a face-to-face workshop back in February. It would be great to see more PMI Belgium "Freskers" - especially given the overall strength of the Climate Fresk movement in Belgium (in second place globally after France, with ~39k workshop attendees and 2,079 facilitators in Belgium).

You have a further opportunity to attend a cross-chapter Climate Fresk workshop on 12 Dec 2024, online from 18:00 -21:00 CET:

• The key benefit for you, as a project professional, will be to understand the power of projects to mitigate and adapt to climate change.
• There will be no registration feefor the 12 Dec event (and PMI credential owners can claim 3 PDUs.)
• The workshop builds an understanding of climate science through an interactive system-building game, concluding with a discussion of actions that can be taken at system and individual level to assist the global shift to address climate change.
• The workshop condenses ~6000 pages of “climate science” into an impactful and fun 3-hour workshop.
• The "Fresk" is a visual map of the causes and consequences of climate change. You will build this in collaboration with other PMI members.
• Attendees leave the workshop with a real understanding of how to contribute to climate action, personally, and as a project professional.
• You can find out more through this short introductory video.
• You can register for the 12 Dec workshop here.
• We are planning multiple parallel workshop sessions, so there should be plenty of capacity to welcome you.

Discounted Carbon Flow

In September I had the privilege to present a ProjectManagement.com webinar: "Tackling the Climate Crisis with Discounted Carbon Flow".

I was delighted to get 620 live event attendees as well as many views of the video, with strong feedback ratings:

I welcome your feedback (via stuart.thorp@pmi-belgium.be).

In the webinar, I summarised the 6 articles that I had published via PMIstandards+ concluding with: "Discounted Carbon Flow: A Worked Example for Selecting Renewable Energy Solutions"

I believe that I will be able to make a bigger personal impact through my contribution to PMI's global standards, where I have enjoyed great teamwork with the PMI Global team during 2024; I was also delighted to receive their recognition.

Hence, from the end of 2024, I will be focusing on PMI global standards and stepping down from my leadership of the PMI European Climate Fresk initiative.

Specifically, I see a tremendous opportunity with the 2025 revision of PMI's flagship "Project Management Body of Knowledge" (PMBOK^(R)).  I aim to contribute to the Draft Comment Period (which I understand starts from Dec 2024) from the perspective of encouraging project professionals globally to consider their projects from an environmental / sustainability perspective.  I encourage you to do likewise.

Some good news...

Back in April, I recorded a PMI Benelux "PM Untold" episode "Responding to the Climate Crisis as a PM".

In that podcast, I mentioned that one of my "climate heroes" is a Country Director in a global technical services company, who is actively leading sustainability related initiatives in the company.

The latest good news is that I attended a meeting 21 Nov, in which we ran Climate Fresk workshops for the Group leadership team and obtained support for Climate Fresk to be rolled out across the organisation Globally.

Given that this organisation supports some of the most significant projects on the planet, the impact could be major.

This has happened because of the courage of one leader to "do the right thing", and I think is a great example for leaders and managers everywhere.

Conclusion

I like to share a positive message about the Climate Crisis; that's not always easy.

I come back to Greta Thunberg's tremendous words:  
"Yes, we do need hope - of course we do.

But the one thing we need more than hope is action.

Once we start to act, hope is everywhere."

Let's act together and feel positive together, knowing that we are doing what we can to tackle the Climate Crisis.

I wish you a wonderful end of 2024, and an enjoyable holiday period.

My next article will probably be 3 months from now, so I take this opportunity to already wish you a happy, healthy, sustainable and impactful 2025!

------- previous article for context -----

Tackling the Climate Crisis in the PMI

Author: Stuart Thorp

During the first part of this event, Chidambara Ganapaiah explained how digital transformation leads to dynamic project management. He explained that Digital Transformation leads to huge changes, changes that are delivered through projects/programs/portfolios, hence the world is becoming “Projectized”.

Gartner states the following: “By 2030, 80 percent of the work of today’s project management (PM) discipline will be eliminated as artificial intelligence (AI) takes on traditional PM functions such as data collection, tracking and reporting”.

The key role of AI in project management is to add value in different stages of the project lifecycle. Thanks/due to AI the project manager will shift away from administrative work. The project manager of the future will need to cultivate strong soft skills, leadership capabilities, strategic thinking, and business acumen.

If a machine can make all the decisions for project managers, is AI going to replace them? The shortest answer is – no. AI can optimize but not create. AI can work with humans but can’t work instead of them. AI can learn from past patterns but is helpless when it comes to novel situations. No matter how far technology evolves, you can rest assured that complex and creative jobs are safe. Creativity, social skills, leadership, stakeholder management, empathy, emotional intelligence and story telling are outside the realm of AI.

The project managers who succeed will likely be those who manage to see beyond the bounds of ‘human’ imagination, and answer questions about how this technology can add real value and drive positive change in project management and business transformations.

During the second part of the event “Building your AI foundation for business outcomes” Bart De Backer explained how we can build, enhance, and enrich applications with AI.

An enterprise AI model relies on 4 levels: infrastructure, data, AI Services and SaaS Applications. Close collaboration with partners, with AI expertise, is also part of the equation. Oracle is active in the field of AI since 2001. The Oracle autonomous database and OCI (Oracle Cloud Infrastructure) use AI technology. Generative AI is now embedded in the Fusion Apps and OCI. Some demos of AI services provided good insight in what added value AI can bring to the enterprise and to project managers.

Organizations can effectively mitigate the security and data quality risks associated with AI implementations, ensuring that AI systems operate reliably and securely while delivering accurate and trustworthy results.

AI is here to stay and grow! As PM’s we must embrace it.

Thank you to Oracle Belgium also for sharing the Presentation Slides (follow this link)

Francis Moeris

Former Oracle Employee

PMI Belgium - Professional development trainer (VDAB team)

Review Le Pouvoir Rhetorique

Ah, la rhétorique, honie comme elle est souhaité. Mais comment fonctionne-t-elle, et comment pouvons nous nous en parer, voire, comment pouvons nous nous en servir?

C'est en ces termes que commence l'ouvrage, conséquent, de Clément Viktorovich. En effet la rhétorique est parfois considérée comme manipulatrice, entre autre parce qu'elle peut l'être, mais aussi car nous vivons une époque technocratique et data-driven.

Mais comme souvent, les outils ne sont que des outils, et savoir s'en servir de manière honnête comme efficace n'est pas donné.

En mettant donc de coté les questions les plus épineuses de l'éthique, joignons nous à la question de comment convaincre et ne pas se "laisser" convaincre.

Le modèle grec, ici repris, consiste en trois grands espaces: le logos ou verbal et rationnel, le pathos ou émotionnel, et l'ethos ou relationnel.

Jusque la rien de nouveau.

Bien que nous nous pensions des êtres rationnels, loin de la, il faudra donc savoir jouer des arguments non-verbaux aussi pour les bonnes causes. En effet, le pathos, aussi dénigré soit il dans nos pensées, y joue un jeu crucial. De même, l'ethos ou la manière dont nous nous représentons et sommes perçus influeras sur notre audience pour le bon comme le mauvais.

Mais, afin de ne pas vous dérober le plaisir de la lecture et de la pratique, je me tiendrais à vous dévoiler quelques outils de style tout à fait managérial:

- L'inventaire: des idées, des arguments, des répliques (les vôtres commes celles de vos adversaires)

- La priorisation des arguments: selon leur rigueur, leur efficacité (par rapport à une audience donnée), notre propre conviction (car celle ci nous rend convainquant, l'essence même du confidence trick)

- La sélection et séquenciation: ou comment construire une argument pour un temps et une audience spécifique. Il s'agit ici de construire un ensemble souvent plus cohésif (qui se suit) que cohérent (qui forme un tout). On retrouve ici les principes connus du storytelling, qu'il se base sur une logique, ou une narration. L'usage du choc introductif.

Ainsi que plus linguistiques:

- La formulation: ici nous trouverons un éventail surprenamment large de techniques pour formuler vos idées de manière attrayante. Commencez par revoir le cadrage (ou point de référence), le vocabulaire (positif dans vos mots, négatif en décrivant les arguments adverses).

- L'engagement: se servir de structures stylisé pour renforcer une image de compétence, créer des montées émotionelles par la répétition stratégique et les assonances, saillir en contrastant positif et négatif, lent et vif.

Et ceux à détecter et éviter: logiques circulaires, assomptions cachées ou malformées, généralisations brutales et démonstrations par bon sens ou exemple, les fausses options, les "concepts mobilisateurs" (surprise)!

As mentioned in our previous newsletter we announced the elections for the board 2025-2026.

We had 6 open positions to help shape the future of the chapter with the president. On October 21st, we held a Q&A session about the upcoming board elections. In addition to this session, we had several individual conversations and email exchanges with potential candidates to assess their fit with my vision and mission for the PMI Belgium Chapter.

I'm grateful that 10 members stepped forward and applied for the 6 open board positions. Each of them is eager to share their project management expertise and contribute to improvements in other areas as well. All of them are committed to creating a supportive community for our members.

In a few weeks, you will receive an invitation from PMI Global to vote for the 2025-2026 board members. This is your opportunity to directly contribute to the growth of our community by supporting leaders who are dedicated to excellence, innovation, and fostering a strong community. Your participation ensures our chapter remains vibrant and reflective of the goals and values we share.

Why Your Vote Matters

• To support candidates who are committed to leading, listening to member feedback, and advancing our chapter's goals.
• To support our mission of fostering growth, networking, and professional development opportunities for all members.
• To help shape the strategic direction of the PMI Belgium Chapter.

We urge you to take a few moments to cast your vote. Together, we can build a stronger, more dynamic PMI Belgium Chapter for 2025-2026 and beyond.

Thank you for your commitment and vote!

What a day!

The #PMFair 2024, the annual event of PMI Belgium Chapter, happened last Friday 11 October at BluePoint Antwerp.

In today's world where technology and artificial intelligence is reshaping the landscape of our craft as project managers. It was time to go back to the basics. With the A.R.T. in project management, we gathered national and international speakers to talk about different areas in project management. Awareness, Rules, and Transformation by using different tools and techniques.

The PM Fair was not only about tools and techniques, but also about the importance of self-care in project management.

The organization of the PM Fair starts in January with a few volunteers brainstorming the theme, recruiting speakers, and finding a suitable venue. Each month, we achieve a task that brings us closer to the end line, to the day of the PM Fair itself.

The organization of the PM Fair is completed by volunteers who meet either at lunchtime or in the evening, depending on availability. Throughout the process, there's always time for laughter, especially when some issues require an urgent hand. Stressful situations were managed well by using the yellow-card technique from our PM Fair lady and president of PMI Belgium Chapter.

So thank you speakers for your amazing performance at the PM Fair: Diepak Kasi, Gina De Groote, Nancy Swerts, Jan Vervoort, Jan Van der Vurst, Yves Cavarec, lieven cornelis, Christophe Vandecaveye, Elena Nikolskaya 👋, Vilma Luīze Gertāne, Maria Cristina Barbero, Kim Tureluren, Joachim Dehais, Paul W.M. Cuypers and our 2 keynote speakers: Lorenzo Vetrano and Hans Vandenberghe

This PM Fair is only existing thanks to our sponsors: Xedis, Prosource, The Bayard Partnership, International Institute for Learning, Ishtar365.

And of course a big, big Thank You for the volunteers who helped with the organization of the PM Fair

: Jūlija Popova, Edi Venturin, Jana Nastari, Renuka Ayri, PMP, Henrietta Owusua Frimpong, PMP, ACP, Piotr Zamisnii PMP, SCR, PRM, Giuseppe DiMaria, Peter Vos, Davide Marceddu, Tim Gaens, and of course the PMI Belgium Board: Didier Timperman, Pierre Van de Leemput, Christine Dassy, Luigi Belli

Link to the PM Fair Movie:Youtu.be/PMI-Belgium/PM-Fair_2024

Link to the event pictures: https://pmi-belgium.be/event-pictures

What a month? Entering the last quarter of 2024, we kicked it off with an amazing PM Fair 2024. Many project managers gathered at BluePoint in Antwerp to deep dive into the A.R.T. in project management. 

Congratulations to the speakers and sponsors who made this event for our members unforgettable. You set the base for the next PM Fair 2025.

November is coming, and I’m grateful to represent our chapter at the PMI President Meeting in Cyprus. All president from the European chapters is coming together to share knowledge, to celebrate success and to learn more about Single Membership Fee. PMI Global is converting the double fee: PMI Global and chapter fee into 1 fee called Single Membership Fee. This project was first piloted in India and is roll out in 2 phases for the European chapters. Phase 1 is coming to end, and lessons learned will be share at the meeting in Cyprus. In Phase 1 Chapter Ireland, Denmark, Central Italy and Portugal adapted the Single Membership Fee. In Phase 2 other chapters will be included, whereas our chapter. In the coming months we will keep you updated on this Single Membership Fee. What are the advantages? What is the impact for you on your renewal?

With the volunteers Slim Kchaou, Francis Moeris, Kamil Morz, Vincent Bada, Roeland Bollen we are working on the next chapter events. Take a look at the event calendar.

The next chapter events are all in present meeting and are mostly hosted by the following company: Oracle Belgium, GSK, Technifuture Liège and Droneport. The last one is still in negotiations, but we can already tell you that they are delighted to collaborate on the topic of the drones.

After the PM Fair, my main topic was the preparation of the Elections 2025-2026.

Stakeholder engagement is a core component of project management, essential for meeting project goals and delivering value. Stakeholders—sponsors, team members, end-users, and community representatives—have unique needs and influence over project outcomes. Mastering engagement requires empathy, clear communication, and adaptability. This article covers principles and approaches for ensuring that stakeholders remain aligned and invested in project success.

Defining Stakeholders

Stakeholders are those affected by or able to affect the project, ranging from sponsors and end-users to external partners. Effective engagement starts with understanding their expectations, interests, and influence within the project ecosystem. Proactive engagement is key—waiting until problems arise often leads to misalignment and delays.

Building a Foundation for Engagement

1. Empathy and Active Listening: Understand stakeholders’ needs and concerns. Active listening reduces resistance and builds rapport.
2. Clarity in Communication: Communicate clearly and avoid jargon to keep stakeholders informed and engaged.
3. Adaptability: Be flexible to meet evolving stakeholder needs, and maintain regular check-ins for ongoing feedback.

Techniques for Effective Stakeholder Engagement

1. Stakeholder Mapping: Identify roles and influence levels to guide engagement strategies.
2. Communication Plan: Define how often and in what form updates will be shared.
3. Regular Stakeholder Evaluations: Allow stakeholders to provide feedback, reinforcing their sense of ownership.
4. Managing Expectations: Clarify goals, timelines, and constraints from the start to avoid misalignment.

Benefits of Strong Stakeholder Engagement

1. Reduces Resistance: Inclusive engagement fosters ownership and reduces resistance.
2. Improves Decision-Making: Diverse insights from stakeholders lead to better decisions.
3. Enhances Project Value: Stakeholders help prioritize meaningful outcomes, increasing impact.
4. Builds Long-Term Relationships: Effective engagement builds trust for future projects.

Adopting Best Practices

For structured guidance, the PMBOK and frameworks like, PRINCE2, and P3.express offer valuable best practices for stakeholder engagement, including identification, communication planning, and engagement techniques.

Conclusion

In project management, stakeholder engagement is both an art and a science. By fostering empathy, clarity, and adaptability, project managers can build productive relationships that lead to successful projects with lasting positive impacts. Thoughtful engagement helps ensure meaningful results for all involved.

Author: Faith Alfred

Pictures: pixabay.com | freepik.com | Designed by Giuseppe Di Maria.

#ProjectManagement #StakeholderEngagement #Communication #ProjectSuccess #ValueDelivery

PMI Benelux Summit - PM Fair, Antwerp 11 October 2024 (By Laura Roversi)

You have all heard and read about the PMI Benelux Summit 2024, which our chapter in Eindhoven kicked off on September 27th. Many chapter members attended the event, which was very appreciated and centered on the theme "Synergies in Project Management: Navigating Trends across Industries."

The second event, organized by the PMI Belgium Chapter, was titled "The A.R.T. in Project Management" (A=awareness R=rules T=transformation) and focused on the “soft skills” of project management.

Here are some highlights of the day:

• Keynote: Mastering the court: applying disciplined agile to basketball success, by Lorenzo Vetrano
  • Telling the story of how Lorenzo, as basketball coach of a young team, applied DA tools to achieve success
• Stakeholders: Dealing plan fully with both the rational and non-rational side of stakeholders, by Jan van der Vurst
  • These very interesting concepts, among which are that what is not rational can still be predicted
• Laughter & Breathing - Tools for stress reduction and team connection, by Anja Vandenbergh
  • How laughter yoga techniques can improve your team’s well-being and yours, boosting productivity
• Personal Mastery - Stress and Resilience Management, by Diepak Kasi
  • Understanding stress and building strategies to cultivate resilience.

The PM Fair was a delightful and informative event; well done to the PMI Belgium Chapter!

Dive deeper into PM Fair 2024!

Witness inspiring keynotes and presentations by subscribing to

PMI Belgium's YouTube channel (Youtu.be/PMI-Belgium/PM-Fair_2024) and relive the magic of the event.

Plus, browse captivating photos to get a glimpse into the vibrant atmosphere. (Link will be added soon)

Vous êtes manager de projets ? Envie de partager sur les meilleures pratiques, d’élargir votre réseau, et de découvrir les dernières tendances en gestion de projets ? Rejoignez-nous le mardi 3 décembre 2024 à Technifutur Liège pour une soirée riche en échanges et en apprentissages !

💼 Au programme :

• Networking : rencontrez des professionnels du secteur, qu’ils soient membres du PMI ou non.
• Partage d'expériences : discutez de méthodologies variées (IPMA, PMI, Prince2, SAFe, Scrum, etc.).
• Inspiration : découvrez de nouvelles approches et idées pour vos futurs projets.
• Acquérir 3 PDUs (Unité de Développement Professionnel).
• Un buffet pour prolonger les échanges dans une ambiance conviviale.

🤝 Pourquoi participer ?

 Cet événement est conçu pour stimuler votre réflexion et renforcer vos compétences en management de projets. C’est aussi une excellente opportunité pour tisser des liens avec des professionnels partageant la même passion.

📍 Date : mardi 3 décembre 2024, à 18h00
📍 Lieu : Technifutur, Liège

Quel est votre cadre méthodologique préféré ?
Chaque chef de projet a ses approches et méthodes de prédilection en gestion de projet. Partagez votre expérience et faites-nous découvrir les vôtres en commentant cet article !

🔗 Intéressé ? Inscrivez-vous dès maintenant : PMI Belgique - World Café

#WorldCafé #Networking #GestionDeProjets #PMIBelgium #Liège #ManagementDeProjets #DéveloppementProfessionnel #MéthodologieDeProjet #Événement

Invitez vos collègues et faites passer le mot ! Ce sera une soirée riche en idées et en connexions. 🎉

In today's complex organizational landscape, navigating office politics can be a daunting task. While many resources focus on individual strategies and soft skills, we can gain valuable insights from a surprising source:

A Small State's Guide to Influence in World Politics.
Tom Long, Associate Professor, Department of Politics & International Studies, University of Warwick.

Why this book you may ask, not one of us works in international relations. Well not only do you, but you work in interdepartmental relations. Office politics can be a taboo subject due to its antisocial component; it is hard to observe and those good at it know better than to explain how. In fact, what little advice we get on this is biased towards individual, pro-social practices in specific cultures. On the contrary, international politics and diplomacy show a wealth of cross-cultural examples in equally many contexts. In that it makes standardized analysis difficult, but insights and wisdom potentials strong.

So let's dive a little into the topic.

First, this is an academic book, therefore it relies on a long history of studying and on strong structure. This makes it somewhat hard to start, but it is surprisingly approachable. It was also recently published and includes modern takes. In particular, there are lengthy explanations on how to approach diplomatic relationships. The more important of which is the shift from a globalized-absolute view of big vs. small (difficult to generalize) to a differential view (bigger vs. smaller country). This gives us the gift of easily changing context to, for example, a large department vs. a small group of people.

Given that perspective, it becomes much easier to put things in perspective, though no system is perfect.

This is where the author gives use a great tool to analyze relationships, namely a typology of disagreements and their likelihood of successful resolution for smaller parties. This typology relies on three parameters: the difference of practice or opinion, how large it looms on the relationship, and how coherent the opinion is for the larger party. You can of course imagine that a large difference, that is at the forefront of the relationship, with a coherent interlocutor, will be hard to change.

The following chapters go into numerous and interesting case studies of the last century, demonstrating typical in each case and whether or how successful they were on their own. With cases in Asia, Africa, South America, and Europe, the coverage is quite high, and thankfully describes cases between regional actors, as well as globally recognized countries.

The following chapter provides further examples in the central role of contemporary intergovernmental bodies, governance, and rules. In particular, the author stresses the value of rule-based orders for smaller parties and their survival. Something that we often see and can leverage within our own organizations.

Finally, we can see how various unions of smaller parties can wrestle discussion agendas in international groups, apply peer pressure, and use their weaker statues to obtain concessions from “noble” larger parties.

What should you take away from it?
First, that politics are highly dynamic, and no single strategy (grinding, hardball, submission) will succeed for you every time, in fact, you should be eminently attentive to the context, the window of opportunity. Study around you how people leverage (or not) different situations to read them better.
Second, that being clear on your goals helps, as does others being unclear. Third, you can leverage disinterest for freedom, but otherwise need to garner interest and support in a topic, usually by having more parties speak of it in unison.

Applying International Politics to Your Everyday Work

By understanding the dynamics of power, influence, and negotiation in the international arena, we can equip ourselves with practical tools to thrive in our professional lives. Remember, office politics is a game of strategy, and by learning from the masters of diplomacy, we can position ourselves for success.

Let's continue the conversation and explore how we can collectively apply these principles to our own organizations.

--
Joachim Dehais, PMP | PMI Switzerland Chapter
Vice President Volunteers

#PMI #Belgium #BookReview #NewCollaboration #ProjectProfessionals #Switzerland

R&D PPM Cross-sharing & Development Day

Target audience: R&D project and program managers working in drug development

Pipeline Project Management (PPM) Development Day to be hosted at GSK in Wavre on Nov 28^th, 2024

Pipeline Project Managers are at the heart of drug development by enabling teams to choose the best path to deliver medicines to patients. This effort not only requires navigating a highly regulated, complex, and multidisciplinary environment but also translating R&D strategy to rigorous execution.

This event aims to celebrate the importance of project management in drug development, while creating a space for cross-sharing of future-looking and real-world experiences. The day-long event will be infused with keynote speeches, panels, workshops and networking experiences with the objective to INNOVATE on practices, INSPIRE through experience and CONNECT PPMs across the pharmaceutical industry.

Keynote speakers for panel:

Denis Lassance VP and Head of PPM, R&D GSK	Gordon Topping Head of Integrated Prog. Management UCB	Imme Van der Taelen Head of Development Agomab

Workshop leaders and topics:

Jan Hansen, SDG Topic: DQ & Strategic Thinking	Patrick Kamba, PPD Topic: Leadership & Ambition	Lenka Pincot, PMI Topic: PMI Strategy & AI	Bart Briers, CRONOS.AI Topic: AI in Project Management

REGISTRATION COST: Registration Fee for PMI members is 35 Euros and 45 for non-PMI members

High-Impact Stories: Get inspired by your peers showcasing pivotal moments in project management! Thanks to our partners OMIMO (via Frank Turley 🇺🇦) and GSK (Via Philippe Bernard) for their invaluable collaboration in bringing this inspiring program to life.

Intertwined into the program we will have talks that are both inspirational and that showcase pivotal moments in projects to illustrate what awesome Project Management is all about. 

Masterclass to Work in a Matrix Environment   Don’t miss the opportunity for 10 participants to participate in a unique Master class gamification experience facilitated by Benoit Schmitt, PhD, PMP. This gamified workshop is designed to immerse participants in the complexities of working within a matrix environment in drug development. The workshop leverages real-world scenarios to enhance skills such as assertiveness, leadership, teamwork, resource management, and driving SteerCo decisions. Participants will assume roles of Project Managers (PMs) and Line Managers (LMs) across simulated projects, facing real-life constraints like resource shortages, SteerCo decisions, interdependencies, and financial limitations   Target Audience: Manager, Senior Manager or Associate Director level Project/Program Managers in Drug Development

Benoit Schmitt, PhD, PMP

🌟 Don’t miss this opportunity to take your career to the next level! 🌟
Welcome to the hashtag#PMIBelgium Chapter!
Are you a new member or considering volunteering? Don’t miss this opportunity to discover how the PMI Belgium Chapter operates and how you can get involved!
Why join us?
Being part of PMI Belgium offers countless opportunities for professional growth and networking. You’ll learn about the chapter’s mission and vision and how its activities and member benefits can help advance your career.
What’s in store for you?
1. Meet the chapter leaders and learn about our strategic vision.
2. Get an overview of our activities and exclusive member benefits.
3. Find out how to volunteer and contribute to the chapter’s various initiatives.
We’ll also have an exclusive Q&A session with our chapter leaders, where you’ll learn how to apply for open positions in the 2025-2026 elections.
🗓 When: Monday, October 21st
🔗 Register now: https://lnkd.in/eYyw3u4p
An interactive session with inspiring leaders and opportunities for direct engagement. Don’t miss the chance to be part of something greater!

#PMIBelgium #ProjectLeadership #PMICommunity #ProjectManagement #VolunteerWithUs #NetworkingOpportunities

👋 Que vous soyez nouveau au PMI Belgium Chapter ou déjà familier avec nous, rejoignez notre 𝗦𝗲𝘀𝘀𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗱'𝗜𝗻𝘁𝗿𝗼𝗱𝘂𝗰𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 & 𝗤&𝗔 𝘀𝘂𝗿 𝗹𝗲𝘀 É𝗹𝗲𝗰𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻𝘀 !
Découvrez la mission de notre chapitre, nos activités, et les opportunités de bénévolat. En plus, obtenez toutes les infos sur comment postuler aux postes de leadership pour les élections 2025-2026 !
🗓️ Quand : 21/10/24 18h
🔗 Inscrivez-vous maintenant : https://lnkd.in/ePRbu3VG
C'est l'occasion idéale pour vous connecter avec notre communauté, poser vos questions et explorer comment vous impliquer !