Sharing the vision of Laudara

Life has a beautiful way of bringing people together from different corners of the world, weaving their paths into a tapestry of shared goals and aspirations. Our story, Kelly Brantner and Irene, is a testament to this magic, a journey that began in Uganda and has led to join forces in the recently set of the Laudara Foundation—a beacon of hope and change.

Kelly's Roots: From Rural Canada to the World

Kelly Brantner's roots has her roots a rural farm in Canada. Growing up amidst the vast landscapes, she learned the invaluable lessons of community and togetherness. These early experiences on the farm didn't just shape her values; they ignited a passion that would guide her career path. Her journey took her far from the Canadian countryside all the way to China, where is lived for many years. Her career became a global expedition, traveling the world to work on various projects that always echoed her core belief: the importance of community and making a positive impact.

Irene's Drive: From the Netherlands to International Ventures

Irene Zijp's story begins in the Netherlands. After completing her university studies, her professional journey took her overseas, working for an international company that opened her eyes to the limitless possibilities of the global market. But Irene's true ambitions  was to help others succeed.

Irene embarked on a path of entrepreneurship, buying and starting companies with a singular goal in mind: to create thriving environments where people and groups could flourish. Her experiences across different continents and industries have equipped her with a unique perspective and a wealth of knowledge, all driven by her desire to make a tangible difference in the world.

Crossing Paths in Uganda

It was in Uganda that our paths crossed, a meeting that neither of us could have anticipated but both of us now cherish. We were both there, driven by our individual missions to foster growth and support communities. And enjoyed having breakfast together while watching the Formula 1.

We found common ground in many aspects and despite our different backgrounds we discovered a shared passion for making a difference. Conversations flowed easily, filled with stories of our personal journeys and experiences and dreams of creating a better world.

The Birth of Laudara Foundation

Our meeting in Uganda was not just a chance encounter; it was the beginning of a collaborative journey. Irene decided to start a new foundation in close cooperation with the Joanne Foundation that had brought her to Uganda in the first place. After some initial talks we quickly concluded that combining Kelly's extensive experience in international projects and Irene's entrepreneurial spirit, we envisioned that by joining our forces we could lead a foundation that would encapsulate our shared values and goals.

Laudara is more than just a foundation; it is a manifestation of our belief in the power of community and the importance of helping others thrive. With Kelly's hands-on approach and Irene's strategic vision, we are dedicated to creating sustainable growth and positive change. Our projects are diverse, but they all stem from a common ethos: to support and uplift communities, fostering environments where everyone has the opportunity to succeed.

Looking Ahead

As we continue to build and grow the Laudara Foundation, we keep being reminded that life’s most meaningful journeys often start with unexpected meetings. We are excited about the future and the endless possibilities that lie ahead. Together, we are committed to making a difference, one community at a time, inspired by the values that brought us together and the shared dream that drives us forward.

Our journey is just beginning, and we invite you to join us as we work towards a brighter, more inclusive future for communities around the world.