Dear members,

After twenty years in the board and almost seven years as president, an important chapter in my life is coming to an end. This is my farewell to AIDA Belgium, but the book never ends at a chapter

In 2002, as a member, I had no clue what happened behind the scenes at one of the largest freediving associations in the world. As an active member, I was wildly enthusiastic, sometimes too much, that even the board members had to hold me down. I learned many things as being a judge’s assistant, webmaster, organizer, translator, and became a driving force behind countless events, and only after three years I became an administrator.

Thanks to founder and former president Jean-Pol François, my good friend Philippe Desitter and a whole host of people, I had the opportunity to grow and explore the world, including beyond AIDA Belgium.

I made great contacts with nationals, such as AIDA Netherlands and AIDA France, and was honored to help supporting other nationals in the establishment. Bonds that were forged for life.

As president, the world truly opens up and you become the first contact.
Countless questions are fired at you and you’re drawn into debates to which you don’t always know the answer. I have been applauded, but also received criticism we had to manage as best as possible.

Although the sea often seems calm, sometimes the ship also braves rough waters.
The art is not to sail rudderless through the storm.

A responsibility that, with the position, is often underestimated. Fortunately, I could count on the support of other board members.

AIDA Belgium has given me what I invested in it, voluntarily, for 20 years.
In a resumé, I am honored for what I have learned, for the person I became today and more importantly, the many friends I taking with me.

Today, we are charting a different course, and the torch is being passed to a young team facing other difficult challenges. I wish the new board members lots of strength and hope they will take their roles to heart.

Of course, I cannot forget to thank Paul enough for his impeccable and loyal support as treasurer, and Wouter, who continued to manage our website behind the scenes.

Thank you to all our members for the many years of loyalty and trust.

This isn’t goodbye yet, quite the opposite! The silent underwater world remains unfathomable and sometimes offers unexpected opportunities. It’s time for me to explore new horizons now.

Thank you, AIDA Belgium, congratulations on your 25th anniversary,

Filip