Mayor Teun Helden van Heeze-Leende was named the best director of a small municipality 2024 on Wednesday evening. He defeated the other two nominees, mayor Anno Wietze Hiemstra of the municipality of Aa and Hunze and alderman Jef Kleijnen van Valkenburg aan de Geul.
When Heldens became mayor of Heeze-Leende in February last year, he was the youngest mayor of the Netherlands at the age of 30. With his fresh perspective, energy and strong involvement, he managed to distinguish himself in a short time.
Accessible attitude
His open communication and accessible attitude make him a particularly welcome person and a decisive mayor.
“I was already enormously worshiped with the nomination and never expected this recognition. That the voters feel so involved and support me is the biggest compliment for me,” said Heldens.
Femke Halsema
The prize for best local director 2024 goes to the Amsterdam mayor Femke Halsema. It is described as communicative and decisive, and is appreciated for her steadfastness, even under major challenges and pressure.
It is the sixteenth time that the election was organized.