From Nelson to the Hague
My background spans Canada and the Netherlands, shaped by growing up in the mountains of British Columbia in a bilingual environment and later relocating to the Netherlands to pursue legal studies. Moving between legal systems early on sparked a sustained interest in how law structures international cooperation and commercial relationships across borders.
I completed my bachelor's, studying International Law in Tilburg. There, I discovered that what motivates me most is stepping back to see the bigger picture: understanding complex international problems and working toward practical solutions that cross borders.
I am currently pursuing a Master’s in International Business Law at the Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam while living in The Hague, a city where international law is part of everyday life. My interests focus on trade, investment, and arbitration, fields where law, business, and global cooperation meet.
Outside of my studies, I enjoy cycling and remain inspired by initiatives such as World Bicycle Relief, which demonstrate how simple, practical solutions can create meaningful opportunities worldwide.
Looking ahead, I plan to qualify through the English bar and build a career working on international disputes and cross-border legal challenges. I am drawn to work where law serves as a tool for connection, problem-solving, and tangible change.
Simple… Unlimited positivity! Yes, there are big issues in life but there are also several big answers.
Raised and educated across Canada and the Netherlands, comfortable working across cultures.
Breaking complex problems into clear, workable questions.
Analysing how legal frameworks operate in practice across jurisdictions.
My professional experience began in restaurants and local community stores, where I worked in fast-paced kitchen environments preparing and handling food. These roles taught me the value of teamwork, clear communication, and performing reliably under pressure, lessons that continue to shape how I approach collaborative work today.
Alongside this, I developed a strong interest in public institutions and democratic processes. I participated in several Canadian elections, contributing both to campaign efforts and to the administration of voting itself. Working within the electoral system gave me first-hand insight into how legal and institutional frameworks operate in practice, and how trust in systems depends on precision, fairness, and accountability.
More recently, I worked in logistics at Decathlon and as a bicycle mechanic, roles that strengthened my problem-solving skills and attention to detail while working directly with customers and technical challenges. These experiences reinforced my interest in structured problem-solving and practical solutions, qualities that ultimately drew me toward the study and practice of law.
Together, these roles reflect a progression from hands-on teamwork and public engagement toward my current focus on international legal work and dispute resolution.
A great leadership role as I was in charge of the Rosemont voting on elections day, taking part in the democratic process.
Stories from past employers...
Motivating young people as assistant coach, we had fun and worked hard together! Thank you Boris! And see you on the Courts.
Nelson Tennis Club Matt Martin
Boris, a really nice inclusive person to work with!
Ashman's Smash B&F Aaron Ashman
Faced with challenges of missing resources, Boris was running his team through training and election day, to register the vote. Thank you for your hard work.
Elections Canada Rob Switzer
I can help you with, English, including listening, reading, speaking and writing skills, high school level.
Here are some of the projects I have been working on!
L.V. Rogers Grade 12 student Boris Oudemans observed that way too many tennis balls were heading for the landfill, and he set about doing something about it.
Looking forward to get in contact with you!
Den Haag, The Netherlands
Nelson, BC, Canada