During a festive event at Podium Azijnfabriek in s-Hertogenbosch, Henk van Mierlo, Marjolijn Sengers, and John Meulenbroeks received the Brabant Trophies 2025. The award from the Cultuurfonds Noord-Brabant is given annually to volunteers who contribute in a special and sustainable way to culture and nature in the province.
Commissioner of the King Ina Adema is chair of the Cultuurfonds Noord-Brabant and presented the trophies. The Brabant Chamber Orchestra (BCO) provided sparkling musical accompaniment. This young, international orchestra brought classical masterpieces and modern compositions to life under the direction of conductor Amin Ebrahimi. The afternoon was hosted by Oscar Kocken.
Henk van Mierlo (Valkenswaard)
Henk received the trophy for his enormous dedication to scientifically documenting the history of Valkenswaard and North Brabant. In addition, he advises municipalities and organizations with guidance and support on cultural history, preserving and passing on important knowledge. Watch the film portrait of Henk van Mierlo (YouTube)
Marjolijn Sengers (Eindhoven)
Marjolijn was honored for her many years of dedication as founder, coordinator, programmer, and artistic director of Podium Klassiek Eindhoven. Thanks to her work, classical chamber music has a permanent place in Eindhovens cultural life and she continuously inspires a diverse audience. Watch the film portrait of Marjolijn Sengers (YouTube)
John Meulenbroeks (Hooge Mierde)
John received the trophy for his tireless efforts to preserve knowledge about World War II and the Indonesian Independence War. By carefully documenting stories and materials, he ensures this history remains alive and accessible for future generations. Watch the film portrait of John Meulenbroeks (YouTube)
New trophies
Willem Zwiers designed the trophies. They were made at the ceramic studio Cor Unum. Willem Zwiers is an independent designer who graduated cum laude from the Design Academy Eindhoven in 2023. His design combines classic chalice shapes with experimental clay techniques, inspired by his Blow-up Lamp. The rough edges are torn differently each time, making each object unique. Cut-out shapes serve as handles to proudly hold the trophy high and symbolize the creativity and passion of the honored volunteers.
Badge and Brabant Guardians
The recipients of the Brabant Trophy also received a special badge, designed by the Eindhoven design collective Tweek-Eek. They are also invited to join the Brabant Guardians, a foundation that organizes an innovative cultural project in Brabant each year.
About the Cultuurfonds
The Cultuurfonds invests 50 million euros annually in culture and nature. This money is used for more than 4,000 projects in the Netherlands, the Caribbean part of the Kingdom, and Suriname. With support from the Friends Lottery, Dutch Lottery, donors, and partners, the fund enables a wide range of initiatives. Foundations, associations, cultural institutions, nature organizations, and individual artists can apply for financial support. The Cultuurfonds Noord-Brabant is one of 12 provincial departments. Read more about the Cultuurfonds Noord-Brabant
