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Pernille Hagild Joins Speaker Line-Up for Tech Table: Diversity in Tech Breakfast

The Swedish Chamber of Commerce is pleased to announce that Pernille Hagild, Global Equality, Diversity & Inclusion Manager at Inter IKEA Systems, will be speaking at the upcoming Tech Table: Diversity in Tech Breakfast on May 13, 2025.

With over two decades of international experience in operational and managerial roles within IKEA, Pernille brings a deep understanding of organisational development and people strategy. In her current role, she leads the company’s global ED&I team, responsible for shaping and implementing the strategic framework for inclusion across IKEA’s global operations.

At the event, Pernille will offer insights into embedding inclusion into core business strategy, and reflect on the practicalities and challenges of leading global ED&I efforts at scale.

For more information visit - https://swedishchamber.nl/events/may-21-swedish-chamber-tech-table-and-di-breakfast/

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May 1 – Workers Day
In Sweden, 1 May is a public holiday known as Första maj. It has been observed since 1939 and is traditionally associated with the labour movement. While political rallies and parades still take place in many cities, the day today is just as often seen as an opportunity to enjoy a slower pace, connect with others, and welcome the arrival of spring.
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Happy Valborg!
Walpurgis, or Valborg (short for Valborgsmässoafton), also lovingly referred to as 'the last of April', is one of Sweden’s most cherished spring traditions. Originally, it was a way to mark the changing seasons and keep evil spirits at bay – but today, it’s a joyful community celebration. So why do Swedes still gather around bonfires on Valborg? Simply put: to welcome spring. It's a symbolic farewell to the dark, cold months, and a big, fiery hello to lighter days ahead. Students embrace it as a preview of summer holidays, while families and friends come together to sing, watch the flames, and enjoy the first true outdoor evening of the year. Expect choral singing, springtime speeches and plenty of people huddling together, slightly shivering – but smiling – in the glow of the bonfire. You’ll also spot lots of Swedish flags waving – 30 April happens to be the birthday of King Carl XVI Gustaf. And as if one celebration wasn’t enough, it’s followed by May Day, a national public holiday packed with parades and political demonstrations.   Source of information:
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Leon Kanters speaker at Tech Table: Diversity in Tech Breakfast

The Swedish Chamber of Commerce is pleased to announce that Leon Kanters, Partner at KPMG Meijburg & Co – Trade & Customs, will be joining the upcoming Tech Table: Diversity in Tech Breakfast on May 13, 2025.

With over 25 years of experience, Leon advises multinational corporations and director-major shareholders across sectors including automotive, fashion, pharmaceuticals, and electronics. His areas of expertise include trade compliance, export control, excise duties, and customs valuation. Prior to joining Meijburg & Co, he served at the Dutch Tax and Customs Administration.

Leon currently chairs the Customs Committee of VNO-NCW, the Netherlands’ largest employers’ organisation, and leads KPMG’s Trade & Customs practice across the EMEA region. As a frequent speaker and litigator, including appearances before the European Court of Justice, he offers valuable insights into the regulatory landscape influencing international trade.

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Event Recap: Mentorship Program 2025 – Sustainable Leadership.
Last week, we held the second session of the Swedish Chamber and Young Professionals Mentorship Program 2025: Sustainable Leadership. This time, we were honoured to welcome keynote speaker Gabriele Hamm Adler, who led us through an engaging and interactive session on regenerative leadership. Through group discussions and brainstorming exercises, Gabriele introduced us to strategies for building strong, positive, and successful work cultures. We explored key questions such as:
  • What makes a great team or leader?
  • What defines regenerative leadership?
  • How can we draw inspiration from nature to lead more sustainably?
This session also marked the first time we welcomed Mentorship Program Alumni. Looking ahead, we’re excited to extend an open invitation to all alumni for future keynote lectures. We warmly welcome you to join these inspiring presentations and discussions. Here’s a glimpse of what’s to come: May 15: Personal and Professional Branding with Swati Narwal, Organisational and Development Leader at IKEA. September 18: Mindfulness and Work-Life Balance with Cole Groom, Co-Founder of Balance Breathing   About the Swedish Chamber Mentorship Program The Mentorship Program was launched in October 2012. Since then, more than 100 Young Professionals of the Swedish Chamber have followed the program and benefited from their future personal and professional growth. The many Mentors have benefited from meeting the new generation leaders of the future and learning more about their insights and values. The Mentorship Program is made possible by the Swedish Chamber of Commerce in collaboration with AIMS International Netherlands B.V., a member of AIMS International. 
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Event Recap: The Ins and Outs of Employment Background Screening
We  would like to extend our sincere thanks to everyone who joined us at the Swedish Chamber of commerce for The Ins and Outs of Employment Background Screening event held together with Validata. Your presence and engagement made it a truly insightful evening. Special thanks to Harm Voogt, Managing Director of Validata and our esteemed Patron Member, for leading us through an engaging session filled with expert insights, interactive discussions, and meaningful dialogue on the future of employment screening. From the warm welcome and registration to the closing networking drinks, we explored key industry topics, including:
  • The growing necessity of background screening across sectors
  • Challenges and solutions in implementing effective screening processes
  • A competitive look at screening practices in the Netherlands vs. Sweden
  • How global trends, including AI and remote work, are shaping the future of screening
We also got to hear the inspiring journey of Validata, from its founding in 2009 to its recent integration with DISA Global Solutions, marking a new chapter of growth and innovation. This event highlighted the cultural, regulatory, and technological factors that influence background screening, as well as the importance of clear communication and policy consistency across regions.
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Marlies Baijer Will Present at Diversity in Tech on May 13

We are pleased to welcome M.H.M. (Marlies) Baijer, Partner at Meijburg & Co Tax Lawyers (Dutch member of KPMG International), as part of the speaker line-up for the upcoming Tech Table: Diversity in Tech Breakfast.

Marlies joined Meijburg & Co in 2012 and is an all-round tax advisor with broad experience in both Dutch and international tax law. Her focus lies in advising family businesses, privately-owned enterprises, and high-net-worth individuals. With a client portfolio spanning diverse markets and industries, Marlies is known for her practical, proactive, and solution-oriented approach.

In addition to her client work, Marlies actively contributes to advancing inclusivity and professional development within the industry. She is a committee member of the Young IFA Network (YIN) and serves within Meijburg & Co’s internal diversity platform, Women in Control.

What to expect:
Marlies will share her perspectives on inclusive leadership and governance within international advisory work, highlighting the value of diversity in strengthening client relationships and driving sustainable business strategies.

Event Details
Date: May 13, 2025
Time: 08:30–11:00
Venue: KPMG Meijburg & Co, Amstelveen

We look forward to welcoming you to an insightful morning of dialogue and connection.

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May 12, 2025 – Celebrating 65 Years of the Swedish Chamber of Commerce in the Netherlands: Join Us Anniversary Fika
On Monday, May 12, 2025, the Swedish Chamber of Commerce proudly celebrate its 65th anniversary in the Netherlands. For over six decades, the Chamber has served as a vibrant platform for networking, promoting business exchange, and strengthening the bond between Sweden and the Netherlands. To commemorate this milestone, we are delighted to invite our members to a celebratory Swedish fika at the Chamber’s office, located at Edge Olympic in Amsterdam. Join us for fika with Swedish treats, and warm conversations with fellow members and the Chamber team. Event Details: Date: Monday, May 12, 2025 Time: Drop in anytime between 09:00–12:00 Location: Swedish Chamber of Commerce for the Netherlands Fred. Roeskestraat 115, 1076 EE Amsterdam Whether you can stay for a brief moment or linger a bit longer, we look forward to celebrating this special occasion together with you.  
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