Ruben Nieuwenhuis

Ruben Nieuwenhuis

Ruben Nieuwenhuis is a social entrepreneur and co-founder of several initiatives, including Techgrounds, CupolaXS, TechMeUp, and DutchEdTech. As the former director of StartupAmsterdam, he played a key role in connecting Dutch startup initiatives and tech clusters. He also co-authored the book StartupCity, which provides administrators, civil servants, and public-private initiatives with insights on how to think and act like a startup.

Ruben frequently gives talks on artificial intelligence (AI), focusing on both its opportunities and challenges. He has a unique ability to make complex AI concepts understandable for a broad audience. His talks blend practical applications with socio-cultural issues, encouraging open discussions.

Currently, Ruben is leading the project ‘Uit Je Bubbel: A New Mental Model for the Netherlands.’ This project delves into personal “bubbles,” exploring how they contribute to polarization and, more importantly, how we can step outside of them. The aim is to enhance our critical thinking skills so that we can collaborate with those who think differently to address the complex challenges society faces.

In his lecture ‘Out of Your Bubble,’ Ruben guides participants through common thinking and reasoning pitfalls. Through inspiring examples and stories, the lecture holds up a mirror, offering practical tools for making better decisions in both personal and professional settings.