History: In 2014, our founder, Adenike Olusola, relocated to the Netherlands with her husband and children in pursuit of academic goals. A skilled migrant with a background in Political Science, International Relations, and Legal Studies, she had built a successful career as a project manager in her home country. Moving abroad meant leaving behind the familiar and facing the challenges of a new language, culture, friendships, and career path.

Her experience of starting over gave her a deep understanding of the barriers faced by skilled female migrants in the Netherlands including career setbacks, financial instability, and the struggle to integrate while maintaining mental well-being.

Determined to turn these challenges into opportunities, Adenike pursued further education and professional development. She obtained her Inburgering diploma, completed a Pre-Master’s and Master’s degree in Consultancy and Entrepreneurship at Rotterdam University of Applied Sciences, became an Associate Certified Executive Coach and member of the International Coaching Federation, and received the McKinsey Forward badge. She also studied NGO Management at the Rotterdam School of Management, Erasmus University, under the mentorship of Professor Lucas Meijs. Through this journey of growth and transformation, she also became a naturalised Dutch citizen.

From these experiences, Thrive Lydia Generation was born, created in collaboration with highly skilled migrants who, like Adenike, understand the challenges of starting over in a new country. Together with our executive advisors, board members, and passionate facilitators, coaches and volunteers, we empower migrant women to navigate their new environment, rebuild careers, and thrive personally and professionally. Our motto: “Don’t just be a woman — be extraordinary.”