WE ARE YOUNG Foundation

At YOUNG Foundation, we believe every big change begins with a seed - a small idea, a moment of courage, a quiet dream. But growth doesn’t happen alone. That’s why we exist: to nurture the roots of ambition and help young changemakers shape something bold, lasting, and theirs.

About us

Our symbol’s meaning

Our symbol, the four-heart clover reminds us of what it takes: Groundwork. Growth. Grit. Guidance. Because success isn’t just about luck…it’s about support, timing, belief, and the right tools to get started.

Our origin

The YOUNG Foundation is the social impact arm of the YOUNG – born from a personal story of resilience, risk-taking, and an unwavering belief in potential. YOUNG’s Founder, Wim de Jong, didn’t follow the traditional path. Born in 1982 in The Hague, he began selling coffee at 12, later organizing events and running a successful student catering business. School wasn’t his thing, but entrepreneurship was. A pivotal moment came when Wim invested his savings in real estate, unlocking a bold journey that would evolve into YOUNG.

What began as one venture has grown into a thriving ecosystem — spanning media, workspaces, talent development, and hospitality, from the Netherlands to Spain and beyond. But success, for Wim, was never the end goal. It was a means to give back.

Where real change takes root

The YOUNG Foundation was created to share this spirit…. to ensure that no young person with drive and dreams is held back by lack of access, confidence, or connections. We believe that every lesson learned and every path paved helps the next generation achieve more and build a future that truly gives back.

The foundation

Our mission

To equip young changemakers, no matter where they start; with the tools, community, and belief to cultivate curiosity and ambition into real‑world entrepreneurial impact.

Our vision

We envision a world where entrepreneurship is not just for the few.  It’s a mindset that belongs to all. When people are given access, support, and trust, they become the architects of real change, regardless of their identity, age or origins.

Our values

This is what we stand for and build upon….

  • Groundwork. We believe strong foundations build lasting futures.
  • Growth. We nurture progress, step by step.
  • Grit. Determination and resilience drive us.
  • Guidance. Through mentorship and community, we lift others up.

The YOUNG Foundation is in the process of being formally incorporated as a nonprofit foundation (stichting) in the Netherlands. Application for ANBI designation will follow.

MAKE A

DIFFERENCE

Our Staff & Board of Directors

Board Member

Nanne Veenstra

Nanne Veenstra is a real estate entrepreneur with degrees in Economics and Information Technology. He started his career in banking, spent several years at a scale-up, and later moved into the real estate sector, where he brings together broad experience from different industries. Curious and positive by nature, Nanne enjoys exploring new fields and finding practical ways to turn ideas into reality.

Read more
Board member

OPEN BOARD MEMBER SEAT

Read more

Financial Transparancy

We publish our full financials, policy plan, and annual report online each year. We dedicate our resources to mission-driven work—and are committed to full transparency.

Download report