Rutgher

Rutger Maters: ‘I manage the FeelFit center next to Nuenens College. I really enjoyed my time at this school. I didn’t make things too hard on myself: I was the kind of student who aimed for a passing grade—just enough to get by. Yet, the teachers here taught me that sometimes you have to do more to achieve your goals. That provided a solid foundation for the rest of my career.

However, that career was abruptly interrupted in 2018, when my life was saved on the operating table. When I woke up, I was told I had been hit by a motorcycle while riding my bike. From that moment on, I’ve had to live with a non-congenital brain injury. Rehabilitation was tough, but I’ve learned how to manage it now. Fortunately, I have a fantastic team around me that understands what I need. I start work early because I’m at my best in the morning. Around midday, I take a short nap to recharge. As strange as it sounds, the accident has brought me a lot of good things. I now realize what is truly important. 

My advice to young people? Don’t stress too much while you’re young. Go do something that energizes you and suits who you are.’