It had to remain a secret. I caught the train to Haarlem very early in the morning. There, our chairman and founder of the Kidshare Foundation, Hans van Driel, was to receive a royal honour. Mayor Jos Wienen praised Hans’s dedication and enthusiasm, which have made it possible for Kidshare to build 66 schools in several African countries. Furthermore, 85 girls who would otherwise have had no chance have received an education at secondary school and university. “The result of your efforts is visible not only in the school buildings but also in the lives of thousands of children. They have gained access to education and, with it, to a better future,” said the mayor. Hans was moved and honoured. At a closing lunch, he thanked his family, board members and friends. “This recognition is for you too; together, we are truly making a difference in the lives of the poorest children.”
(Gea Dekker, secretary of the Kidshare Foundation)
