“I grew up in the countryside in a village on the stormy North Sea front, surrounded by cows, horses and sheep.” Born in Oldenburg, a historic university town that once belonged to the Kingdom of Denmark, her childhood was simple and joyful, firmly anchored in nature and tradition. “In a way, it still feels like home,” she says, and I can hear the affection in her voice.

After finishing school, Vicky’s curiosity took her far beyond that quiet landscape. She spent a formative year in Oxford before studying law in Saarbrücken, Lausanne, and Münster. Eventually, Brussels became the setting for her professional life. She worked in several European institutions, including the then newly created office of the European Ombudsman and the European Parliament, mostly with liberal Members. “I enjoyed working in the political field,” she explains, and the experience strengthened her belief in openness, dialogue and European cooperation.

Today, she has lived in Belgium longer than in her native Germany. With her husband, two adult children, and their beloved dog, she now calls Brussels “my home,” a place she has grown attached to over three decades. “During my 30 years in this small country, I learned a lot about its cultural, linguistic, and yes, political circumstances,” she shares, describing Belgium with humour and affection. She enjoys the capital’s manageable size, its cultural life, its green spaces and, she adds, “It has great parks for dogs to run around.” The country girl never really left her.

Her journey with Femmes d’Europe began quite naturally. She had known the Christmas Bazaar for years, but it was her neighbour, former president Bernadette Ulens, who finally persuaded her to join. “She was very convincing,” Vicky laughs. And once she entered the association, she discovered not only an organisation, but a community of women who share the same purpose.

Creating events together brings her a great sense of fulfilment. “It makes fun to create and organise events with similarly minded people knowing that the result will make a difference for those who are in need of support,” she tells me. Vicky has seen with her own eyes how profoundly Femmes d’Europe can impact lives. “Our contributions make a world of difference to groups and individuals alike. It is well worth the effort we make.”

Among the many activities, one event stands above all others in her heart : the Christmas Bazaar. “It is and will probably always be my favourite event, with its unique atmosphere,” she says with enthusiasm. For her, it is more than a fundraiser ; it is a celebration of unity. “There is a ‘come together’ feeling, a common spirit that carries us and unites us.” It is this very spirit that she cherishes most in Femmes d’Europe ; a friendly and cooperative energy, free of competition or prejudice. “Everyone is welcome, without regard to background or nationality,” she emphasises. “Openness and a common aim not hampered by any type of jealousy or bias. That,” she says, “is the true strength of the organisation.”

The international character of the association is something she values deeply. “The international membership profile is, in fact, its asset,” she explains. It enriches conversations, broadens perspectives, and keeps the mind open. “I very much enjoy my contacts with members from other groups.” In her view, diversity is not just a feature of Femmes d’Europe, it is one of its essential pillars.

Beyond her volunteer work, Vicky loves discovering Brussels in everyday ways. She enjoys small local restaurants, especially at lunchtime, and she enthusiastically recommends her favourite, La Fleur d’Oranger, on Rue des Aduatiques, which she describes as offering “tasty Mediterranean food.” Simple pleasures and genuine encounters seem to define her rhythm of life.

When asked what keeps her motivated after so many years of involvement, she answers in her characteristically concise and sincere way : “It’s the goal that makes the difference.” Helping others, creating change, working together toward something meaningful ; these are values she carries naturally.

Before we end our conversation, Vicky shares a blessing she loves, a timeless Irish wish that reflects her gentle outlook on life :
May the road rise to meet you,
May the wind be always at your back.
May the sun shine warm upon your face,
The rain fall soft upon your fields.
And until we meet again,
May God hold you in the palm of his hand.

It suits her perfectly : uplifting, sincere and profoundly human. Just like Vicky !

Alexandra Paucescu
Communications Committee - Romanian Group