Breakthrough. Build it. Make it happen.
Breakthroughs come in many forms. Sometimes they begin with an ambitious idea that grows into a successful business. Sometimes they require personal resilience and conviction when change is met with resistance. And sometimes they are about driving innovation within a large and complex organisation.

On 17 September 2026, the Breakthrough Festival brings these three perspectives together through candid stories from leaders who have faced and overcome these challenges themselves.

From Idea to Impact
The afternoon opens with the story of a scale-up that successfully navigated its challenging early years and has since achieved international growth. Which decisions made the difference? How do you deal with uncertainty, setbacks and changing market conditions? And what does this require from leaders?

Breaking Through Despite Resistance
Change does not always create immediate support. How do you stay the course when stakeholders question your approach or decisions? This session explores the human side of leadership, focusing on resilience, influence, trust and the ability to bring people along on the journey of change.

Driving Innovation in Large Organisations
The final keynote addresses a challenge familiar to many technology leaders: how do you create a breakthrough within an established organisation? What organisational, cultural and leadership conditions are needed to make innovation succeed? And what role do you play as a leader when existing systems and ways of working need to evolve?

What Can You Expect?
At the Breakthrough Festival, you will connect with peers who are actively involved in digital transformation, innovation and technological advancement. You will gain access to real-world experiences from leaders who have launched new initiatives, challenged established practices and delivered meaningful impact within their organisations.

The festival also offers ample opportunities to exchange ideas, expand your network and participate in interactive discussions. Featuring contributions from Joost Kamermans, Valentijn Lemkes, Elies Lemkes-Straver and Jeroen Tas, the programme combines entrepreneurial experiences, personal leadership stories and insights into large-scale transformation.

The event starts at 3:30 p.m. with an informal welcome and networking session and concludes with dinner at 8:00 p.m.

Reserve Your Spot
Are you an ambitious IT, Digital, Data, Cyber or Technology professional looking to learn from experienced leaders, gain new perspectives and expand your network within the NextGen Tech Leaders Community? Register here.

We look forward to welcoming you on September 17th 2026, from 3:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., at LINKIT, Rijnzathe 9, De Meern.