About Qing Gong – Your Dedicated Coach for Personal and Professional Growth

I’m Qing, a passionate Career Coach and Trainer with over a decade of experience supporting internationals in the Netherlands. My deep curiosity for learning, personal growth and building meaningful connections has shaped my journey. Now, I’m here to guide yours.

My integration journey began with learning the Dutch language — a path that not only connected me with the local culture but also sparked a journey of self-discovery. I started my professional career at the University of Groningen, where I gained extensive experience supporting and guiding students. During my 8 years at the university, I successfully applied for and obtained various roles: from international officer to assistant programme manager.

Through networking, I was also invited to become a confidential advisor for students. This experience inspired me to develop my training How to Network in the Netherlands — a workshop designed to help internationals build connections and unlock career opportunities.

In 2024, I applied for a coveted role at UWV, a Dutch governmental organization. Competing with Dutch candidates, I successfully secured the position after three rigorous rounds of selection. This experience reinforced my belief that with the right mindset, preparation and networking strategies, internationals can succeed in the Dutch job market.

Inspired by my own journey, I founded Thrive — a coaching service dedicated to helping internationals like you gain clarity about your strengths, expand your personal and professional network, and unlock your potential. I believe your background is your strength — and with the right mindset and strategies, you can build a fulfilling career in the Netherlands. Let’s thrive together!