13. Patricia Rodrigues da Costa

I was born and raised in Brussels and have Congolese and Portuguese roots. I descend from a socially committed family. My parents are from Congo and fought for a better DRC all their lives. At home everything was always about politics. Ironically, I always told myself I'd never get involved in politics because it eventually drove my parents apart, and look at me now. Since I was 16, I have been working part-time to pay for my studies because a scholarship was not sufficient. I also earned my own pocket money to be able to occasionally do something fun with my friends. So I understand very well what it means to be short of money. Culture and sports basically served for me as a way to let off some steam.  

Therefore, culture and sports are very important in my eyes and should be accessible to everyone.

I have a bachelor's degree in communication management & PR and a master's degree in Political and Social Sciences from VUB. I work as a Public Affairs Advisor for the infrastructure operator of the Belgian railway network. Previously, I was press attaché to the first female Chair of the Senate. I am currently a municipal councillor and CPAS councillor in Jette. And recently also Vice-President of Visit.Brussels. 

I am married to a well-known Belgian rapper and together we have two daughters.