Future Game Changers | Bente Biemans

Bente Biemans

Hi, my name is Bente. I’m 23 years old and currently in my fourth year at the Hotel Management School Maastricht, where I’m working on my consultancy project within the Hotel Management track. I’m originally from Hilvarenbeek, a small village near Tilburg, but over time Maastricht has really started to feel like home.

From MBO to Hotel Management School

In high school, I completed VMBO-TL. Around that time, I started working in restaurants as a hostess, and that’s where I discovered my passion for hospitality. After high school, I decided to study at the secondary hotel school in Tilburg. I learned a lot there, but I felt I wasn’t done learning yet. That’s why I decided to take the next step and continue my studies at the Hotel Management School Maastricht.

My MBO studies gave me a strong practical foundation, but I wanted to learn more about the management side of hospitality. I also wanted to challenge myself and grow on a personal level. Moving to Maastricht felt like the right step to continue developing myself, both professionally and personally.

Since starting at HMSM, I’ve developed a completely different way of thinking. During my MBO, I mainly focused on the practical side of hospitality, which gave me a strong base. At HMSM, I’ve learned to think more strategically and analytically.
For example, in projects I now look not only at what works best for the guest, but also at what is financially realistic and what fits within the brand or concept. On a personal level, I’ve grown a lot to  I’ve gained more confidence, I know my strengths better, and I’ve learned to reflect more consciously on my actions. That’s something I did less during my MBO years. For our graduation project, we work with a real client and design a product they can actually use. We’re in close contact with them throughout the process, and seeing how our ideas contribute to their business makes me realise that our work really has an impact.
 

Bente's Wings

For me, “Wings” stands for growth, discovery, and finding my own path within the hospitality industry. I want to use my knowledge to inspire others and to approach hospitality in a modern, people-focused and sustainable way.

I’m especially inspired by people who are truly passionate about hospitality and genuinely care about others. At HMSM, I’ve met teachers who show that hospitality is about much more than a smile  it’s about connection, empathy, and real attention. My fellow students also inspire me a lot. Everyone has their own background, culture and perspective, and that makes me learn something new every day.

HMSM offers many opportunities for personal and professional growth. The projects with real clients make learning very practical, but at the same time, we learn to think like managers. The personal guidance, workshops and feedback moments really help me to develop further. I also find the school’s network very valuable  it opens many doors for the future.

In five to ten years, I see myself in a management position within a hospitality concept where people and experience are central. I want to lead a team in which everyone feels heard, valued, and motivated to grow. I want to contribute by using hospitality as a way to connect people. For me, hospitality is not just about service  it’s about creating a space where people feel welcome and seen. In the future, I’d love to give something back to HMSM, for example by sharing my experiences with new students.
 

Bente's Tips

My biggest tip is to step out of your comfort zone. Say yes to opportunities, even if they feel scary or new those are the moments when you learn the most. Be curious and ask questions; teachers are always willing to help when they see that you’re interested. It’s also smart to start networking early. Don’t be afraid to make mistakes  that’s how you grow.
And finally, stay true to yourself. Find out what’s important to you, and don’t compare yourself to others. Everyone has their own path, so be proud of your own growth and journey.