“Actually, it was far more amazing than I ever expected,” Sharon Reidinga says with a big smile. “I received compliments everywhere. People even recognised me in the supermarket and said, ‘Hey, weren’t you in the newspaper?’ That really made an impact.”
In 2025, her team was named **Cleaning Team of the Year**. A title that not only meant a great deal to Sharon herself, but also to her colleagues, clients, and the people at the locations where they work.
A Strong Foundation for Growth
She has been working for Breedweer for several years at the Municipality of Leeuwarden. What started as an opportunity through the Dutch target group register grew into a place where she could truly thrive.
“I was given responsibility for cleaning an entire department on my own. They told me, ‘If you can get everything under control within two weeks, you can stay.’ I grabbed that opportunity with both hands.”
With qualifications in Care and Welfare Assistance and Facility Services, Sharon has a solid professional foundation. “I don’t just know how to clean something, I also understand why it needs to be done that way. That gives you confidence. You understand the purpose behind what you do.”
Sharon Reidinga and a Team That Feels Like Family
What makes her work special is the atmosphere. “You can truly be yourself here. We laugh a lot, but there is also room for serious conversations when needed.”
Colleagues are always there for one another. Whether it’s offering support, listening, or lending a helping hand, teamwork comes naturally. Sharon works 33 hours a week and could easily work even more. At the same time, she is learning to set healthy boundaries for herself.
“I never want to let anyone down. But I’m also discovering how important it is to take good care of yourself.”
A Journey with Twists and Growth
Her career has gone through several different phases. She started in healthcare, later worked at a charity shop, and spent time at a credit bank. Sitting still has never suited her character.
She is also active outside of work. Travelling is her greatest passion. A husky tour in Norway is already planned for the near future. She also enjoys photography, especially capturing nature, birds, and historic buildings.
“Everything has a story. I find that fascinating.”
What means the most to her in her work? The appreciation she receives.
“A compliment or a thumbs-up can mean so much. It makes you feel that people notice and value what you do.”
The story of Sharon Reidinga shows what can happen when commitment, professional expertise, and social impact come together.
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