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About Us
Meet Danny Vader and Hélène van Engelen
Danny Vader and Hélène van Engelen are the heart and soul of the Firekeeper Academy. With over 30 years of experience in fields ranging from banking and IT to consultancy and the health industry, they bring a wealth of professional knowledge to their roles. But it’s their deep spiritual journey and dedication to personal growth that truly define their work.
Transformational Pioneers
Danny and Hélène are more than just experienced professionals; they are transformational pioneers. Drawing inspiration from indigenous cultures and the profound teachings of nature, they guide others in redefining personal and professional boundaries. Their holistic approach integrates Emotional Intelligence, environmental awareness, and spiritual alignment, helping leaders and communities navigate life with wisdom and compassion.
A Deep Capacity to Listen and Guide
Known for their exceptional ability to listen and support, Danny and Hélène create a nurturing environment where personal transformation can occur and flourish. They are committed to helping others develop their inner wisdom, discover their true purpose, and make a meaningful impact..
Danny and Hélène are also affiliated with the Sustainable Global Leadership Academy. As teachers, facilitators, and trainers. In this role, they train new leaders worldwide with a holistic leadership and personal development approach.
Our Journey
Partnership & Alliances
- We don’t work alone. Our guiding principle is collaboration. We partner with professionals and strategic allies worldwide who share our mission, philosophy, and approach, adding depth and expertise to our collective journey.
- Our ultimate purpose is to contribute to a world where every person is deeply connected to their authentic self, their community, and the environment, paving the way for a future filled with peace, purpose, and transformational growth.
Otan Partick Ford
Otan Patrick Ford is a core strategic partner. A former psychotherapist, he has spent decades working closely with senior community and business leaders and overseeing programs for disadvantaged youth. His vibrant presence adds a glow to our shared mission. He lives in Brazil, works remotely, and frequently visits the United States.
Suzana Dabess
Suzana is a Brazilian therapist and the visionary founder of Udhara, a non-profit organization in Brazil dedicated to restoring peace and safety for women and families affected by abusive relationships.
With a strong background in Human Resources and expertise in various healing techniques—especially through the teachings and her partnership with the Firekeeper Academy—She has developed a beautiful ability to open hearts, rekindle the inner fire, and foster hope and thriving through the power of togetherness.
Linda van den Bedem
Linda is a fire starter from the Netherlands. She loves (re)creating a basis of safety, peace, truth and trust with people and groups to be working from and building on. Giving the possibility to grow naturally and create 1+1=3 projects together, in line with life and the next 7 generations. She does this based on her heart and decades of life and professional experience. One of her projects is tending campfire circles, which are rooted in the Firekeeper Academy. These circles provide a place for people to come together in small groups and practice listening in/for real life, which allows for openings to occur, connections and trust to grow.
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Mariska &Â Stephan
Mariska works as a Business coach, guiding people back to their core and their true talents. She loves working with the Academy's teachings because they gently and naturally touch and open people's hearts.
Stephan owns a retail store and integrates the principles of firekeeping into his business. They are passionate about bringing more beauty, kindness, and connection into the world. Together they have two sons, Boaz and Toby.
