Team

Myriam already has a lot of experience within international and world exhibitions under her belt. She was pavilion director already been pavilion director for Expo 2020 Dubai and Expo 2010 Shanghai, and she was a regular at Floriade 2012 Venlo. As pavilion director, she focuses on team management and an anticipatory approach. In the past, she has also coordinated Belgium's participation in the Business & Design Week in Hong Kong. She works together with her team to ensure that Belgium is represented with dignity.

Arnaud joined the team in July 2023. He first came on as Content Officer where he focussed on following up construction and the completion of the pavilion as well as the content of the events. As Expo neared, he took on the role of Deputy Director of the pavilion. Arnaud has a degree in Japanese studies from Université Paris Cité. Before joining BelExpo, Arnaud worked for the Japanese Embassy to the European Union in Brussels for eight years as well as for a construction company.

As communication manager, Justine looks after the website and social media. She has been doing so since 2022, when she first joined the team. Furthermore, Justine deals with press communication, graphic design, event communication, and so on. Justine has a degree in Applied Linguistics Multilingual Communication Dutch, French & English from KU Leuven.

Hänsel started as content officer in August 2023. He maintains partner relations and monitored the public tender for the visitor journey. Additionally he was responsible for the content programme development of the thematic weeks and additional partner events. When expo started, he took on the responsibilities for protocol officer. Hänsel has a degree in Japanology from KU Leuven and used to work for the Japanese Embassy to Belgium before starting at BelExpo.

Pieter joined the Belgian pavilion team in February 2025. With a strong background in international events and public diplomacy, he supports the pavilion as Operations & Logistics manager. He previously coordinated high-level side events at COP28 and was involved in the preparation of Belgium’s presence at Expo 2025 through his work with VO Europe. Pieter studied at Ghent University and has a degree in interpreting (French & Czech) as well as a degree in organisational psychology and has been active in projects connecting Europe and Asia.

Tom joined the Belgian Pavilion team as Event Manager in early 2025. Based in Osaka, he oversees the coordination of events and visitor experiences throughout Expo 2025. With a background in event management and a degree from Hogeschool PXL, Tom brings valuable expertise to the pavilion's operations. His role involves managing daily activities and ensuring the seamless execution of the pavilion's programming.

Rabab joined the Belgian Pavilion team as HR & Administration Manager in April. She brings valuable experience in talent acquisition and human resources, having previously worked as a Recruitment Consultant at Page Personnel. In her current role, Rabab oversees administrative processes, ensuring smooth operations and effective team management throughout Expo 2025. Her background in HR and administration contributes to the pavilion's success in fostering a collaborative and efficient work environment. Rabab has a degree in Social Sciences from ULB.

Ani joined the Belgian Pavilion team in early 2025 as Junior Administration Manager. In this role, she is responsible for managing the team of attendants, overseeing their schedules and ensuring smooth daily operations. Ani supports the HR & Administration Manager with various administrative tasks. Her organizational skills and attention to detail contribute to the efficient functioning of the pavilion during Expo 2025. Ani has a degree in Office Management from Erasmus Hogeschool.

Azamat joined the Belgian Pavilion team in early 2025 as Junior Operations Manager. In this role, he supports the Operations Manager in overseeing logistical, technical, and security aspects of the pavilion. Azamat holds a Master's degree in Oriental Languages and Cultures: Japanology from Ghent University, complemented by an academic exchange at Kanazawa University in Japan. His responsibilities include managing facility operations, coordinating deliveries and ensuring effective crowd control and risk management.

Xante joined the Belgian Pavilion team in early 2025 as Junior Event Manager. In this role, she assists in coordinating the pavilion's event programming, supporting the planning and execution of thematic weeks and partner events. Her previous experience includes involvement in cultural initiatives such as the JAPAN SQUARE vzw Film Festival. Xante's background in event coordination and her passion for cultural exchange contribute to the dynamic programming of the pavilion during Expo 2025. Xante has a degree in Japanese and Cultural studies from Ghent University.

Aki joined the Belgian Pavilion team as Shop & Retail Coordinator in 2025. She is responsible for the management of the pavilion’s retail operations and supports partnerships related to commercial activities. Aki ensures that visitors enjoy a smooth and welcoming retail experience that reflects the Belgian spirit.

Sawako joined the Belgian Pavilion team in 2025 as Administration Officer. She supports the HR and operations teams with administrative coordination and helps ensure smooth day-to-day functioning of the pavilion during Expo 2025. Her role is essential in bridging communication and administrative processes between the Belgian and Japanese teams.

Tomomi is the Accountant for the Belgian Pavilion at Expo 2025. She oversees financial administration, reporting, and daily bookkeeping. With precision and reliability, she ensures that all financial procedures are aligned with local requirements and supports the team in maintaining budgetary discipline.

Bunya joined the Belgian Pavilion team in 2025 as Operations Consultant. With extensive experience, he supports the smooth day-to-day functioning of the pavilion. Bunya plays a key role in liaising with Japanese service providers, ensuring compliance with local regulations, and facilitating seamless communication between Belgian and Japanese teams. His knowledge of the local context and his solution-oriented approach are essential to the successful delivery of pavilion operations.

Mr Pieter De Crem was appointed as the new commissioner-general of BelExpo by Royal Decree on 12 November 2023. The commissioner-general will lead the BelExpo team in its preparations for Expo 2025 Osaka and, together with the team, ensure a successful Belgian pavilion.

Aldwin Dekkers came on board in the year 2018, as deputy commissioner-general. He then took over as commissioner-general at BelExpo in 2022. Since October 2023, he has held the position of Senior Programme Lead.

Klaartje came on board in 2017, with already extensive experience in government agencies. Klaartje deals with complex procedures and public tenders.

Yousra has been our jack-of-all-trades since 2021. As Office Manager, Yousra supports the whole team and she also takes care of the accounting.