Interview with supporter Mohan Zeilstra

In an inspiring conversation with IT4Kids supporter Mohan Zijlstra, he shares his story and motivations for helping others. From his adoption from India to his youth in Drenthe and his current commitment to charitable causes, Mohan offers insight into how personal experiences and sports have contributed to his mission of providing youth with a better future. Read further to discover how he became involved with IT4Kids and the valuable lessons he has for others.

I was adopted from Bombay (India) and came to the Netherlands at the age of one, where I grew up in a truly Dutch family in Drenthe. My childhood consisted of typical Dutch dishes like kale with meatballs. My adoptive mother passed away when I was 12, an age when you really need support from your parents. The parents of a friend from my class took me in, and I lived with them for two to three years. They had two conditions for taking me in: I had to continue playing sports and finish my studies. This period greatly contributed to my personal development and helped keep me on the right path. At some point, I realized what sports had given me and how grateful I am for the opportunities I’ve received. This was when my passion for helping others began to develop.

What has sport meant to you?
Sports have given me structure, perseverance, and self-confidence. But most importantly, it has provided me with enjoyment, social connections, and a sense of fitness. I started playing sports at the age of six, initially playing football, and then took up boxing and cycling at twelve, which I still do today—though with a different intensity. Sports bring both physical and mental benefits, helping me stay fresh and strong. Mental health becomes increasingly important as you grow older. I don’t smoke, drink minimally, and take good care of myself through sports and healthy eating. This enables me to better support others. This may seem obvious, but I’ve learned that it’s not attainable for everyone. I know how important sports are for me, and I want this for everyone.

How did you start helping youth?
From a young age, around 12 or 13, I came into contact with organizations that focus on youth. Unconsciously, I chose to help in my own way at that time. Later, especially when I got my first job and started earning my own money, I began to develop this further. I saw many beautiful things but also things that didn’t feel right. This realization made me want to make a difference—a difference that others made for me when I was young.

How did you become involved with IT4Kids?
Through my business contacts at FC Utrecht, I encountered various charitable causes, one of which was IT4Kids. About five to six years ago, I had a conversation with Colette from IT4Kids and found their mission wonderful. IT4Kids combines many facets that I value: youth, sports, and providing a (second and/or third) chance.

What do you do for IT4Kids?
I have been working for the same employer for over 25 years. My role is to connect supply and demand, both internally (with colleagues) and externally (with prospects and clients) by creating sustainable relationships with people. I gladly help IT4Kids by raising awareness of what they do within my network, so companies can donate hardware. I continue to work to send as much hardware to IT4Kids as possible.

What would you like to share with others?
Believe in yourself and your abilities, and always stay true to yourself. I strongly believe in the power of sports. It provides structure, self-confidence, and a sense of belonging. I want everyone to have the chance to be challenged in sports because it brings so many benefits. Not everyone has parents who can encourage them or the financial means to participate in sports, so I gladly help wherever I can.

I would also like to inspire others to look for ways to help. Help can take many forms, such as being a listening ear or connecting someone with a network or other people. I encourage everyone to thoroughly research and choose a cause they truly believe in and where they can make a difference. Share your experiences and insights with others as much as possible, and let yourself be inspired by others. If you’d like to share experiences or insights, feel free to contact me or IT4Kids!