Bianca, what can you tell us about yourself?  

"I have been co-owner of Eyco Flowers since 2008. With my brother Danny, I have a farm in Nootdorp where we grow Agapanthus (African lily) for sale as cut flowers. With my father Cor, who started Eyco in 1978, I co-own a farm in Portugal where we grow various exclusive cut flowers. We also have a breeding department. I am married to Chiel Hazeu, owner of Hazeu Orchids in Delfgauw. So flower growing is very much in my blood."

And you have also been involved with Royal FloraHolland for a long time.

"Ten years ago, I was actively involved in Cooperative 2020, in which members participated in thinking about the cooperative of the future. I took part because I think it is important for the cooperative to be strong. Out of Cooperative 2020, the Members' Council has emerged. I also founded the Youth Council with three young growers. We were keen to make the voice of young growers heard. This is important, as they are the future of our sector."

‍

Was this a success? And what have you yourself gained from the Youth Council?

"It certainly was a success! The Youth Council has become a serious sparring partner. It is a powerful body, regularly consulting with the management board and giving solicited and unsolicited advice. The council also organises programmes and events for young growers, such as on business succession. Young entrepreneurial growers can learn about Royal FloraHolland's organisation and governance structure through the Youth Council. I experienced this myself as a board member and I will take my experience from the Youth Council to the Members' Council."

Why did you want to join the Members' Council? And what do you want to achieve?

"I would like to remain involved and actively contribute to a strong cooperative. As a grower of a niche cut flower product, I think it's important to keep the marketplace of the future broadly accessible and affordable. Based on my experience with the farm in Portugal, I can also relate to international members. Additionally, I of course want to continue to represent the interests of young growers. In short: I will work from various angles to make the cooperative as strong as possible."