Insights and inspiration for project professionals

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