Biography
Who is Tjarda Struik?
Early life and education
Tjarda Struik was born in Putten on April 17, 1986, and grew up alongside her sister and two half-sisters. During her primary school years, teachers and parents noticed vision issues that led to a diagnosis of macular degeneration, a progressive eye condition leaving her with about five percent vision.
Despite her visual impairment, she attended standard schools without special education placement. She studied at the University of Groningen, where she earned both her bachelor's and master's degrees in psychology between 2005 and 2012. After completing her university studies, she relocated to Amsterdam and spent nine months at a rehabilitation center learning Braille and cane usage.
Political career and mayoralty
Tjarda Struik began her professional path working as a communications advisor at the rehabilitation center where she received support, later transitioning into a management role within disability care. Following a discussion with former Speaker of the House Gerdi Verbeet, she decided to pursue a path in politics. From March 2018 until October 2023, she served as a municipal councilor in Zeist.
The Leiderdorp municipal council nominated her as mayor in June 2023, and King's Commissioner Jaap Smit officially swore her into office on November 14, 2023. This appointment marked a historic milestone as she became the first female nearly blind mayor in the Netherlands. Before taking office, she completed an orientation program through the Ministry of the Interior and also represents the People's Party for Freedom and Democracy.
Online presence and business
In 2021, she established her own speakers and consultancy firm to deliver lectures centered on inclusivity and diversity. She expanded her public reach in 2022 by creating a TikTok account where she documents her daily experiences as a blind creator.
By mid-2023, her online following on the platform grew to approximately two hundred thousand users. Through her digital presence and public speaking engagements, she continues to advocate for accessibility and understanding of visual impairments.
Birthday and age
Tjarda Struik was born on April 17, 1986, which makes Tjarda 40 years old today. That birthday falls under the Aries sign. Tjarda shares the date with 33 other famous people.
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