New CEO of Dorcas Agnes Kroese: ‘I keep hope by looking people in the eyes’

As a small child, Agnes Kroese already wanted to ‘help people abroad’ and she ended up in South Sudan a few years ago. Since the beginning of this month, she is the new CEO of Dorcas. If you had told me this 10 years ago, I would not have believed you. But I am ready and looking forward to it.

Agnes is very excited to this new step and says: ‘Since my early childhood, I have felt called to dedicate myself to those in need. From close by, I have witnessed what Dorcas’ work means for people who are excluded, live in poverty, or in the midst of conflict and crisis. I have seen the glow return to the eyes of people who find themselves in the most difficult circumstances. I have seen communities flourish. That gives me hope. That motivates me. I would like to use my knowledge and experience to further develop and professionalise Dorcas, so that, together with everyone involved, we can realise a structural impact on even more lives.’  

Agnes looks forward to continuing her career at Dorcas as CEO and also Chairman of the Executive Board. Agnes: ‘From close up, I have experienced what Dorcas’ work means for those in need. The change in individuals and the flourishing of communities motivates me and gives me hope. I want to use my knowledge and experience to further develop and professionalise Dorcas, so that, together with everyone involved, we can realise a structural impact on even more lives.’ 

Agnes studied International Development Studies, and then took a Master’s degree in Emergency Relief. In her role as Country Director South Sudan, she has been actively involved with Dorcas since 2019.