European Humanitarian Forum 2024, Brussels, Belgium, March 2024

As the new year kicks off, I find myself reflecting on my plans for the coming weeks and months. Initially, I had envisioned ending 2025 with a break. The idea of taking a step back from work and dedicating some time to personal rest sounded enticing. Unfortunately, the realities of professional obligations had other plans for me. Despite my best efforts to carve out that time, the workload proved insurmountable, and I had to abandon my holiday aspirations.

Looking ahead, I remain optimistic about having a short break in March. However, I still do not have any concrete ideas about what to do during this time. Similarly, I am planning a more substantial holiday towards the end of April or early May, but my plans remain wide open. If anyone has good suggestions for destinations or activities, I would love to hear them.

This holiday will coincide with the period just before the European Humanitarian Forum (EHF) in Brussels, a key event in the humanitarian sector's calendar. The EHF brings together stakeholders, including policymakers, practitioners, and experts, to discuss pressing challenges and opportunities in humanitarian aid. This year, the event will be co-hosted by Poland, which currently holds the rotating presidency of the European Council. For more details about the forum, visit the official website: European Humanitarian Forum.

Balancing work and personal life is always a challenge, but the prospect of meaningful engagements like the EHF and the possibility of future holidays keeps me motivated. Here’s to navigating the weeks ahead with purpose and, hopefully, a little bit of rest along the way.

Happy New Year

As we step into 2025, I want to extend my heartfelt wishes to each of you for a year filled with hope, health, and happiness. This new year offers us a blank canvas—a chance to dream boldly, act decisively, and embrace the opportunities ahead.

2025 is a time to renew our commitments to making a positive difference, to deepen connections with those around us, and to explore new horizons. Whether it’s through humanitarian efforts, personal achievements, or simple acts of kindness, let’s make this year one of collective growth and shared success.

This space will continue to be a place for reflections, stories, and ideas that highlight the power of resilience and unity. I look forward to sharing this journey with you and hearing your own stories of courage and hope throughout the year.

Here’s to a 2025 full of new adventures and lasting memories. Together, let’s make it extraordinary!