Luc Desender elected Port Personality of the Year 2025 at Port Oostende

During the eighth edition of the networking event Where Onshore Meets Offshore on Thursday, August 28, the prestigious title of Port Personality of the Year was awarded to Luc Desender, founder of Renasci. The award was presented by Charlotte Verkeyn, president of Port Oostende.

This year marked the third presentation of the Port Personality of the Year award. The title honors individuals who have made exceptional contributions to Port Oostende. Luc Desender is recognized for his years of entrepreneurship, his forward-looking vision, and his role as a driving force behind the further development of the circular industry in Ostend. With the successful growth of Renasci—now joined by Borealis as a major shareholder—he actively contributes to strengthening the region’s circular economy.

Luc Desender succeeds previous laureates: Patrick Degryse of Group De Cloedt (2023) and Frans Hoorelbeke of Daikin, together with Kristof Buffel & David Bruyndonckx of Toyota (2024).

“Luc Desender is a pioneer who succeeds in combining innovation and sustainability with economic value for Ostend and its port. Through his work, he places our city firmly on the national and international map,” says president Charlotte Verkeyn.

Over the past years, Where Onshore Meets Offshore has grown into a key event within the offshore and port community. It offers a unique meeting point that builds bridges between onshore and offshore, highlighting the increasing interconnection between the blue economy and the circular industry. Both sectors share the same foundation: a forward-looking approach to resources, space, and energy. Together, they create opportunities for sustainable employment, innovation, and growth, forming two of the four niche growth markets on which Port Oostende is focusing.

This eighth edition once again brought together hundreds of professionals to network, exchange ideas, and collaborate on the future of Port Oostende.

Port Oostende is a growth engine and hub of the blue economy. Port Oostende focuses on four niche growth markets: Blue Technology, Maritime Connections, Circular Industry, and Blue Food. The development of these sectors is built on three pillars: prioritizing safety, health, and the environment; supporting innovation and development; and providing maritime services.