Linda Vermaat

Biography

Linda Vermaat is a moderator, social innovation advocate and former director of Innofest. During her time as director, she facilitated the testing of more than 200 startup innovations in real-life settings, ranging from energy and circularity to fashion design. Throughout this work, she collaborated closely with designers, entrepreneurs and researchers. Her work centres on the human side of transitions: change that is not only technologically smart, but also socially inclusive, practical and widely supported.

Throughout the Thriving Planet session, Linda Vermaat will guide the conversations between speakers and audience. Drawing on two decades of experience leading conversations on complex topics, from boardrooms to design labs and research settings, she combines sharp insights with warmth, curiosity and subtle wit. Her style helps people from different backgrounds connect, challenge each other and move towards shared solutions.