William Klaver is the Student in the Spotlight

Student in the spotlight is a new segment in the Opening of the Academic Year: one or more students get five minutes on stage in the auditorium to talk about their special project or initiative. Inspiring stories, special things that students of the Erasmus University do to realize their ambitions. Projects with social value, students who are an example to others. 

This year, the jury, consisting of the university’s Executive Board and Jong Trust Fund, has chosen to award William Klaver. Over the last few years, he has spent a lot of energy putting the sport of volleyball back on the map in all of Rotterdam. It is not easy taking volleyball to streets and squares, as it is not a real street sport. However, Klaver persisted, approaching schools, teachers and even groups of children playing in squares. He also quickly got other students involved to help him provide the training sessions. All over Rotterdam, these students got groups of children to play volleyball on a regular basis.

By now, partly because of his project, volleyball has become one of the fastest-growing sports among Rotterdam children. Erasmus University students continue to help William provide children with volleyball training in fields and squares every week, a project that now receives funding from the Rotterdam municipality. In addition, William Klaver, along with a few other people, established Beach Club Rotterdam, thus allowing Rotterdam children to play beach volleyball as well. 

According to the jury, William Klaver is a source of inspiration to other students. He almost singlehandedly got an excellent project off the ground. His passionate and spontaneous approach speaks volumes about his level of ambition, which fits beautifully into the university’s Make it Happen ethos, where ambition is key. Last but not least, Klaver’s project brilliantly reflects the idea that Erasmus University is society-oriented, giving back to the city of Rotterdam.

Guest speaker
‘Meeting tomorrow's challenges’ is this year’s theme of the Opening Academic Year. Both Lilianne Ploumen, Minister for Foreign Trade and Development Cooperation and alumna of Erasmus University, and President of the Executive Board Kristel Baele will discuss the fast-changing world around us. How do we resolve today’s and tomorrow’s complex issues? How do we meet the challenge of digitalization, for example? And how can we create a truly inclusive society?

Check the website for more info and registration