CONCEPT
The CIFAL Brussels KICK OFF is an annual multi-stakeholder event that brings together stakeholders and partners from across sectors to exchange insights, foster collaboration, and set the tone for the year ahead. It also serves as a key moment to connect our diverse action learning networks, strengthening synergies and shared learning.
Through plenary sessions and interactive formats, the event explores sustainability challenges and opportunities, with a focus on how these translate into concrete actions in practice.
KICK OFF 2026
From Challenges Today to Resilience Tomorrow / 18 march 2026, Brussels
On March 18, we gathered for our annual CIFAL Brussels, KICK OFF 2026 at the Marie-Elisabeth Belpaire Building in Brussels. Under this year’s theme, “From Challenges Today to Resilience Tomorrow,” we brought together partners, experts, and changemakers to reflect on today’s challenges and explore pathways towards a more sustainable and resilient future.
opening plenary session
The opening plenary session started with welcoming remarks by Peter Wollaert , UNITAR Fellow and Managing Director of CIFAL Brussels, formerly known as CIFAL Flanders. His introduction explained the importance of collaboration across sectors and prepared the audience for a series of keynote contributions.
Opening keynote words by Jan Danckaert , Rector of Vrije Universiteit Brussel.
Insights on the state of the SDGs in Belgium by Patricia Delbaere of Federal Planning Bureau.
Reflections by Oskar Bonte , European Climate Pact Ambassador and Youth Advisor at the Flemish Youth Council, on fostering “active hope” in addressing today’s challenges.
Panel debate exploring competitiveness and international trade, featuring Xavier Vanrolleghem from Flanders Investment & Trade and Peter Garre , Managing Director, from Bopro, moderated by Femke Gilis , trainee at CIFAL Brussels.
Morning learning sessions
ALN Flemish Agencies: From Policy to Practice
Yves Dierckx (Sustainability Advisor at VLAIO – Flanders Innovation & Entrepreneurship & Enterprise Europe Network Flanders) presented the Green Deal Sustainable Value Chains.
Bridget Thielens Lomo (Trainer & Project Manager, CIFAL Brussels) introduced the CSR Risk Check, and facilitated a hands-on workshop using the tool.
ESG Frontrunners: Insights on Sustainability Reporting
Peter Wollaert, ( UNITAR and CIFAL Brussels), opened the session with his keynote “Essential in an Annual Report“, as it is becoming indispensable for organisations committed to sustainable development.
The session conitnued with a keynote by Eva Schobyn, Sustainability Consultant at Pantarein, who highlighted the central role of strong data management in credible sustainability reporting.
The panel discussion brought together Elke Thurman ( IDEA Consult), Johan Van Damme ( Het Facilitair Bedrijf), Stefaan Martel (Bopro) and Arno Vanermen (ViTes), moderated by Topsana Du Bois (CIFAL Brussels). Each speaker reflected on key aspects of the sustainability reporting journey.
lunch Pause
AFTERNOON learning sessions
ALN Higher Education Institutions and SDG Ambassadors:
The SDG Ambassador Community and Action Learning Network Higher Education Institutions came together for a learning session on realising impact through the Theory of Change Model. The session was moderated by Bridget Thielens and Topsana Du Bois, Trainer & Project Manager at CIFAL Brussels.
Karen Van Bastelaere from HOGENT started the session with an introduction to the Theory of Change.
Participants dove into a real-life case presented by Griet Sinove from Upgrade Estate, which develops innovative, community-focused housing projects.
To wrap up, Topsana Du Bois led a collaborative exercise exploring both short and long term partnership opportunities between higher education institutions and the SDG Ambassador Community.
UN at a Crossing Point: How UN Agencies Are Adapting to Global Changes
Adriana López Mendoza (United Nations Institute for Training and Research ( UNITAR), and Global Coordinator of the CIFAL Global Network, opened the session online and shared insights on UNITAR and CIFALs’ priorities.
The panel discussion featured:
• Christina Bache, PhD, Associate Researcher at the Brussels School of Governance ( BSoG) (Vrije Universiteit Brussel). With reflections on global governance, and multilateral cooperation.
• Marise Habib, Chief of Mission for IOM Belgium and Luxembourg with insights on how geopolitical tensions are shaping migration dynamics.
• Stefano Matonte, EU Affairs Officer at the UNIDO Brussels Office with perspectives on the role of public–private partnerships in sustainable industrial development and international cooperation.
closing plenary session
CIFAL Brussels updates
CIFAL Brussels has officially moved into its new office space and training centre, right in the heart of Brussels. The new location offers an environment that accommodates:
- Office space for CIFAL Brussels and VVN
- A conference room
- A workshop space
- A documentation centre
- A bar
All these rooms are available for rent.
Board of Directors
With a heavy heart, we had to say goodbye to two of our board members, Astrid van Parys from Colruyt Group and Dirk Franco from PXL Hogeschool. We thank them for their commitment and energy they brought to our organisation. We wish them the very best as they step into new opportunities and continue making an impact on the paths ahead of them.
With a heartfelt welcome, we are pleased to introduce Jan Danckaert from Vrije Universiteit Brussel and Els Stuyven from HOGENT as the newest members of our board of directors.
UNITAR SDG Ambassador Certificate of Completion
We are happy to recognise two new SDG Ambassadors. Continuing the tradition of empowering frontrunners who demonstrate leadership in sustainable transformation, HOGENT and Het Facilitair Bedrijf were welcomed as the newest institutions to join the SDG Ambassador Community. HOGENT is the first higher education institution to reach this milestone. Their ambassador journeys will further support peer learning across sectors and reinforce the collective momentum toward strategic sustainable impact.
Message from UNITAR
To end the session, Dr. Michaela Majcin Dorčiková from UNITAR delivered a closing message. She emphasised that sustainability is not static, it evolves. As with sustainability, we continue evolving as an organisation. Reflecting this evolution, supported by our broadening activities and collaborations, Michaela noted that CIFAL Brussels continues to be an essential part of UNITAR.
Relive the KICK OFF 2026
Discover the highlights of our annual KICK OFF and revisit the conversations, connections and learning moments that brought our network together.
In collaboration with and supported by
KICK OFF 2025
From Agenda 2030 to Pact For The Future / 26 february, Brussels
On February 26, 2025, we had our KICK OFF “From Agenda 2030 to Pact For The Future” at the Marie-Elisabeth Belpaire building. Participants came together for a day of insights and collaboration. The event featured two plenary sessions and six action learning sessions, offering a platform for in-depth discussions on sustainability challenges and opportunities.
The sessions explored key sustainability themes, from updates on CSRD, CSDDD,
and the EU Omnibus Regulation to higher education networks and interactive SDG workshops. Discussions highlighted business and human rights, sector federations in SDG 17,
and stakeholder engagement strategies.
venue & team
opening plenary sessions
Peter Wollaert, Managing Director CIFAL Flanders outlined the journey from Agenda 2030 to the Pact For The Future.
Prof. Luc Van Liedekerke from the University of Antwerp, presented the latest insights from the SDG Barometer Belgium 2024, offering a deep dive into the country’s progress on sustainability goals.
The plenary ended with an insightful interview conducted by Topsana Du Bois with Marian Blondeel from UNRIC on the UN’s 2025 communication priorities.
Morning learning sessions
ESG Frontrunners: Update CSRD, CSDDD & EU Omnibus
The ESG Frontrunners network, organised by Topsana Du Bois and Charlotte Heyvaert (CIFAL Flanders), held the first session of the year as part of one of the Action Learning Sessions of the KICK OFF 2025. This session marked the beginning of its four-part learning network, aimed at understanding the latest European Union regulations that impact businesses. Speakers included:
- Phillipe Nys, from Voka, shared updates on CSRD, its Belgian adoption, and its impact on SMEs.
- Jonas Kiesekoms from Pantarein, explained how to communicate sustainability under CSRD.
- Boris Verbrugge from KU Leuven & Möbius, discussed due diligence.
- Marc Daelman, Partner at PwC, focused on CSRD assurance.
New Action Learning Network: Higher Education Institutions
The New Action Learning Network on Sustainable Development in Higher Education was launched, bringing together universities and colleges to exchange knowledge, share best practices, and collaborate on sustainability initiatives.
- Prof. Dr. Dirk Franco (Hogeschool PXL, Universiteit Hasselt) presented his paper on transition teams as a tool for driving systemic change in higher education.
- Katrien Monden & Tom Janssen (Duurzaam Educatiepunt) showcased existing initiatives and resources supporting sustainability in higher education.
- Karen Van Bastelaere (HOGENT) shared HOGENT’s sustainability journey, highlighting how the SDGs shape its strategy and policies.
SDG Action Learning Manual: Simulation of a Workshop with SDG Wheel
Emma Sageot and Camila Salazar from CIFAL Flanders, previewed the upcoming SDG Action Learning Manual and led a simulation workshop using the SDG Wheel on a fictional company.
lunch pause
AFTERNOON learning sessions
SDG Ambassador Community: Business and Human Rights
The SDG Ambassador Community , a learning network by CIFAL Flanders and Voka, supports 9 SDG Ambassadors in driving sustainability at the highest ambition level of the PCA2030 Trajectory. Their first session of the year focused on Business and Human Rights and the impact of human rights legislation on businesses.
- Astrid Van Parys from CIFAL Flanders & Colruyt Group, moderated the session.
- Leen De Ruck from VS Advocaten, provided a legal perspective on human rights in business.
- Boris Verbrugge from KU Leuven & Möbius, discussed the CSRD’s impact and due diligence requirements.
- Stephan Parmentier from KU Leuven, introduced a human rights test designed for Flemish universities.
Action Learning Network Sector Federations
The Action Learning Network Sector Federations session explored SDG 17 and development cooperation, with a focus on business initiatives in Africa.
- Loïc De Cannière from Incofin, author of Afrika, een gedroomde toekomst, delivered a keynote on why Africa is the continent of the 21st century.
- Bert Bortier from Exchange, Pol Deturck from Ondernemers voor Ondernemers, and Werner Sels from Lignaverda, joined a panel discussion on SDG 17 and development cooperation, focusing on business initiatives in Africa.
Why and How to organise a Stakeholder Panel?
This interactive session, led by Bridget Thielens Lomo and Mei-Ke Vanryckeghem from CIFAL Flanders, explored the value of stakeholder panels in fostering dialogue and informed decision-making. It began with a presentation of the CIFAL Flander’s Stakeholder Brochure , outlining five key steps for setting up panels with practical tips and examples. Participants then engaged in a Mentimeter debate, sharing perspectives and best practices.
closing plenary session
CIFAL Flanders Updates
Ari Epstein former CEO of AWDC, was recognised for his remarkable leadership as CIFAL Flanders Chair from 2011 to 2024 and became our first Honorary Chair.
Ingrid Lieten from Verso was appointed as our new Chair of the Board of Directors, and Geert Aelbrecht from BESIX as new Vice Chair.
UNITAR SDG Pioneer Certificate of Completion
Congratulations Apeiron! Looking forward to the next steps in the trajectory.
Congratulations BESIX! Excited to see the continued progress toward strategic sustainable impact.
Networking Reception
In collaboration with and supported by
KICK OFF 2024
28 february 2024, BRUSSELS
On February 28th, we marked the
closure of our Jubilee year with the grand KICK OFF of 2024. Hosted within the chambers of the Antwerp Provincial Council, the event unfolded in two distinct acts. Firstly, we showed a first glimpse of our company video and our Impact Report.
Delving deeper, sessions on our PCA2030 trajectory, stakeholder engagement, and ESG initiatives aimed to spark inspiration amongst participants. Following this, the Province of Antwerp segment shone a spotlight on our collective commitment to sustainability initiatives.
Networking lunch
opening plenary sessions
Word of welcome by Ingrid Lieten , Vice-Chair CIFAL Flanders and CEO Verso.
Thank you Wouter Van Gulck , General Manager Belgian Chambers, for your valuable contributions of last years to the CIFAL Flanders’ Board of Directors
10 years of impact in numbers
Overview of 10 Years of CIFAL Flanders: Insights from Peter Wollaert, Managing Director CIFAL Flanders and UNITAR Fellow
ISO SDG Management System Standard
Marijke Janssens, Project Manager CIFAL Flanders, interviews Bernard Fieremans, expert NBN, on the new ISO SDG Management System Standard
Morning learning sessions
Bridging the SDGs and ESG principles: get inspired by the new Sustainability Report of Blue Gate Antwerp
closing plenary session
Congratulations to the 2 new SDG Champions by Alex Mejia, Division Director UNITAR and Head CIFAL Global Network
Networking cocktail
Empowered by
In collaboration with
