My name is Tessa de Goede, 27 years old. I am a driven woman with a life changing passion.
This is my story:
Eight years ago I discovered for the first time, the incredible beauty of South America. Not only because of its nature, but also through my various volunteer work. I started with looking after handicapped children in Peru and I finished with teaching English in Ecuador.
A year and a half later, my studies took me to China but only for a short duration. I had another goal in mind: Nepal. I helped build an orphanage in Kathmandu, called: Ramro Sathi. It was here when my dream and mission started.
In 2008 I lost my heart to Guatemala. It didn’t take long to learn the Spanish language and I started working in a public basic school and in a hospital with children afflicted with cleftlips. Very soon my mind was filled with ideas for plans and projects.
Thanks to the necessary drive and perfect dose of willpower, I started with my action plan.
With the right contacts in place I created my own foundation.
Ever since that moment, I live and work permanently in Guatemala to make sure that my foundation operates as well and efficiently as possible.
The operation of T.E.S.S Unlimited consist of the following devoted people:
- Paul de Goede (54) *
- Tessa de Goede (27), founder T.E.S.S. unlimited, lives and works in Guatemala.
- Bob de Goede (24), secretary T.E.S.S. unlimited and Tessa’s brother.
- Desiree Weiermans (42), PR and fundraiser T.E.S.S. unlimited.
- Sam van Nispen tot Pannerden (20), treasurer T.E.S.S. unlimited.
- Veronique van Loock (30), volunteer coordinator T.E.S.S. unlimited.
* Tessa’s family believes and supports Tessa’s work wholeheartedly. That is why we have decided, through financial means, that Tessa will be able to continue her volunteer work for the next 5 years.
