World Summit 2010 Presenters: Hans van Keken

Hans van Keken works as a journalist for the regional newspaper in Hilversum, the capital of media in the Netherlands. He reported for various editions, but most impact had the seven years he worked as ‘Ombudsman' , an experiment in journalism he developed with others. It definitely confirmed the opportunities he always hoped media could bring, in a world that is rapidly changing.

Hans didn't have a predictable career. He did a social study, but quit in 1981 cause he missed something in science. He started working in very different jobs and branches, ranging from Mc Donalds - difficult being a veggie - to assembly line worker, and from chief communication officer of a pension fund - boring - to giving dancing lessons and starting (with others) a local television network. These experiences transformed the way he looked at the world, and influence the way he writes, cause all these years he kept on writing freelance for newspapers and magazines.

In 1990 he won a trip to Japan in an international essay contest with a story in which he marveled at the cruel attitude towards nature of the Japanese, that contradicts Zen Buddhism. That year he also won a trip to Thailand in a TV quiz about the woods of the world.

Hans is happy to be able to write for a newspaper. It gives freedom to dedicate, to investigate and to be of service. He's also involved in the new district he lives in (as chairman of the neighborhood council and with developing a garden park), and for many years he was member of the Works of the newspaper. Every December he plays Sinterklaas, the magical Dutch (and original version) of Santa Claus.