RESEARCHER · AUTHOR · SPEAKER
Different perspectives. Better decisions.
I help companies and organisations better understand young talent, entrepreneurship and diverse consumers.
With 26 years of experience, a strong research foundation and diversity as a common thread, I share insights and stories that open up new perspectives. Through talks, workshops and research, I turn these into better-informed decisions.
Experience
26 years
experience in higher education and research
Talks and workshops
Across borders
at home and abroad
3 working languages
NL · FR · EN
for a wide range of audiences
How can I help you?
Talks & Keynotes
Evidence-based insights, clearly presented. With stories that stay with you and open up new perspectives.
Workshops & moderation
Interactive sessions and conversations that create space for exchange, reflection and practical ideas.
Research & Advisory
Turning complex questions into clear insights about entrepreneurs, talent and consumers.
Pelckmans 2026
My book: Young Entrepreneurship
How young people are reshaping work and entrepreneurship
What drives young people today? How do they view learning, work and entrepreneurship? And what can employers, educators and organisations learn from them?
In Young Entrepreneurship, I combine research with stories from young entrepreneurs and insights from experts. Beyond the clichés, with a nuanced view of a generation shaping work and entrepreneurship in its own way.
The insights from my book also form the basis for talks, guest lectures and tailored workshops.
My expertise
Young entrepreneurship & the future of work
How do young people view learning, work and entrepreneurship? What do they expect from employers, and what role does an entrepreneurial mindset play in their development? Insights relevant to HR, organisations, education and business associations.
Women’s & diverse entrepreneurship
Who starts a business, who grows, and what potential remains untapped? I research motivations, ambitions and barriers—from access to finance to networks and growth opportunities.
Diverse consumers & markets
To better understand consumers, we need to look beyond the average. With my background in ethnomarketing, I explore how culture, identity and lived experience shape choices, and what market insights organisations can gain from this.
In practice
From conferences and guest lectures to workshops, panel discussions and research projects: I bring my expertise to a wide range of audiences.
Always well prepared, tailored to the audience, and focused on making research accessible and relevant to practice.
A selection of my work
From international conferences and panel discussions to interactive workshops, guest lectures and research projects.
For over 25 years, I’ve shared research insights with a wide range of audiences, in Belgium and beyond. In Dutch, French and English, always tailored to the people I’m speaking to.
International panel discussion
Cadi Ayyad University Marrakech
Lowering financial and market barriers for women entrepreneurs. Closing event of a joint research project with Cadi Ayyad University.
Keynote
Artevelde University of Applied Sciences, Ghent, Global Minds Day
Beyond the suit: entrepreneurship in all its forms and colours. Keynote for young people.
Panel moderation and keynote
Voka TRY Dendermonde
Youth entrepreneurship, book launch & panel discussion: how do young people view work and entrepreneurship, and what does this mean for employers?
Workshop
WBA Empower & Connect Women Only Antwerpen
From values to story: an interactive workshop for women entrepreneurs
Hello, I’m Karijn
Researcher by expertise, curious about people, with 26 years of experience in higher education.
Diversity is a common thread throughout my professional and personal life. I’m fascinated by the stories behind the numbers, the choices people make and the potential we sometimes overlook.
What drives me? Bringing people with talent and ambition closer to those who help shape their opportunities. So that new perspectives lead to different choices.
