Bart De Wever’s journey into the world of politics wasn’t solely driven by ambition; it was intertwined with the pursuit of personal happiness. In 1999, seeking a healthier lifestyle, he joined a badminton club at KU Leuven. While weight loss might not have been the primary outcome, he found something far more valuable—his future wife, Veerle Hegge.
“If we started drinking something in a group after the badminton, he always jumped out,” she recalled in an interview, “Because of the way he could fascinate the whole group with his stories. Those were entertaining and frequently enough funny conversations.”
Ten years later, on July 11th, the Flemish holiday, De Wever and Hegge tied the knot. “A date that I can easily remember,” De Wever shared. Their union brought forth four children: Hendrik, Katrien, Simon, and Liesbet, who were still young at the time. From the outset, Hegge understood that sharing her husband with the demands of politics was an unavoidable reality.
the night before their wedding, De Wever was engrossed in work, striving too establish a Flemish government by half past one in the morning. During the wedding ceremony, he expressed his heartfelt gratitude to his bride, saying, “The life I lead is no fun for you. But without you and the children I am nothing.”
Hegge eschewed the whirlwind of social events and formal gatherings, prioritizing family life. She resigned from her position as a graphic designer at an advertising agency after the birth of their third child.”Years ago, Bart and I talked about it for a long time how we wanted to organize our further lives,” she later explained. “We already knew that Bart had opted for a busy life. And there was also the intense desire to have more than two children.That is why I decided to stop working and putting my energy in our family. I do not want key kids who end up in an empty house after school as their father and mother are still working.”
Today, with their children nearing adulthood, hegge has returned to the workforce as a primary school teacher, finding fulfillment in nurturing young minds while supporting her husband’s political endeavors.
How does Veerle Hegge balance her role as a primary school teacher wiht the demands of her husband’s political career and her family life?
Table of Contents
- 1. How does Veerle Hegge balance her role as a primary school teacher wiht the demands of her husband’s political career and her family life?
- 2. Finding Love and balance: An Interview with Veerle Hegge
- 3. From Badminton Courts to the Political Arena
- 4. Love, Family, and Political Life
- 5. A Balancing Act
- 6. A Collaborative Partnership
“]
Finding Love and balance: An Interview with Veerle Hegge
Veerle Hegge, wife of renowned Flemish politician Bart De Wever, has consistently stood by her husband through his demanding career while prioritizing their family life. In an exclusive interview with Archyde, Ms. Hegge shares insights into her life, balancing personal happiness with the pressures of public service.
From Badminton Courts to the Political Arena
Archyde: We understand that your journey with Bart began at a badminton club. Can you tell us a bit more about how your paths crossed?
Veerle Hegge: Yes, that’s right! we met at KU Leuven’s badminton club. I was drawn to bart’s captivating stories, his ability to engage and entertain everyone. He had this natural charisma and humor that drew people in.
Love, Family, and Political Life
Archyde: Ten years later, you tied the knot on July 11th, a date Bart describes as easily remembered. What does this day represent for your family?
Veerle: That day signifies the beginning of our journey together, our commitment to building a life filled with love and family. It’s a cherished memory, one that reminds us of the foundation we established together.
Archyde: How do you navigate the demands of Bart’s political career with your role as a mother and wife?
Veerle: It undoubtedly presents its own set of challenges.From the start,I understood that Bart’s chosen path would be demanding. We talked extensively about how to balance his commitments with our family life. Choosing to prioritize our children and create a stable home habitat was essential for us.
A Balancing Act
Archyde: You made the decision to step away from your career as a graphic designer. What motivated this choice?
Veerle: Our desire for a larger family was a significant factor.Bart’s demanding schedule meant that needing someone at home to focus on the children was crucial. Watching them grow and creating a loving and nurturing environment was,and continues to be,my priority.
Archyde: You’ve recently returned to your profession as a primary school teacher. How has this transition felt?
Veerle: It’s incredibly fulfilling! Teaching offers a chance to contribute to the community, to nurture young minds, and pass on knowledge. it’s a passion that aligns perfectly with my values and complements Bart’s public service.
A Collaborative Partnership
Archyde: What are some key takeaways from your journey,especially for other couples navigating demanding careers and family life?
Veerle: Communication is paramount. Open and honest dialogues about priorities, expectations, and support systems are crucial. Remember that building a strong family isn’t a race; it’s a marathon. Lean on each other, celebrate the small victories, and never underestimate the power of shared commitment.
What are your thoughts on how families navigate the complexities of modern life? Share your experiences and insights in the comments below.
