Annelie Wambeek is a dynamic DEIB (Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging) trainer, speaker, and facilitator with a passion for creating spaces where everyone feels seen, heard, and valued. With a background in Sociology, Cultural Studies, and International Relations, she blends academic insight with real-world experience across cultures and industries. Through interactive workshops, thought-provoking keynotes, and transformative discussions, Annelie challenges perspectives, sparks meaningful change, and works with organisations to build truly inclusive environments.
šWhere can we typically find you on a week night?
On my balcony or under my electric blanket in Amsterdam :) Unless Iām travellingā¦
šÆāāļøIf we were to find you on the dance floor, what kind of music would be playing?
Anything that my body enjoys moving to!
Classic hip hop, r & b, anything nostalgic and cheesy, latino and reggae too!
šWhen we say FOOD, you sayā¦
Sri Lankan Food š±š°š
šŗLife quest?
Learn, experience and give something back!
š©°If you were a shoe, what would it look like?
Barefoot! Or in flip flops if I must wear shoes!
š§What's something your grandparent doesn't think is a job, but you'd like to get paid for?
My current one! My Gran still doesnāt truly believe that all my āinternettingā and calls lead to me travelling for work. The thought of getting paid to speak about my experiences, and facilitate discussions which Iād be having for fun is still surreal.
šWhat do you bring to The Outspoken Native?
I think my story and background brings complexity. Iāve spent a long time working on feelings of guilt for all the privilege Iāve been afforded, and now I am trying to use that privilege for something greater. There are SO many stories that need to be told, that have been forgotten, or erased or hidden, and Iād love to play a small part in exploring that.
š§What's something unpopular that you believe?
Decolonisation isnāt really possible. Iāve heard the phrase, you canāt take the eggs out of an already baked cakeā¦ I fully believe in unpicking and unpacking decoloniality but I think its naive to pretend we can truly decolonise - at least in the short term.
My parents are still in disbelief that people pay me to talk! They havenāt been able to shut me up since my toddler years of constantly asking āwhyā.
I guess Iāve always wanted to know whyā¦
I have quite a lenient boss (myself) so it can look like I am always travelling! The reality of running your own business is a roller coaster, but I do try hard to make the most of work opportunities to explore new cultures.
