Prince Bernhard van Oranje-Nassau, born on December 25, 1969, in Nijmegen, is not only a distinguished member of the Dutch royal family but also a symbol of resilience, entrepreneurship, and philanthropy. The second son of Princess Margriet and Pieter van Vollenhoven, and nephew to King Willem-Alexander, Bernhard has forged a powerful legacy grounded in action, not just lineage.
A Modern Royal Entrepreneur
Educated in economics at Georgetown University and marketing at the University of Groningen, Bernhard embraced the spirit of innovation early in life. His career began with founding the courier company Ritzen Koeriers, followed by his groundbreaking digital agency Clockwork—one of the Netherlands’ earliest internet ventures. After two successful exits from that company, he co-founded Levi9, an international IT services company based in the Balkans, offering nearshore software development and consultancy services.
He is also the visionary behind Waterdream, a high-end boat manufacturer known for its bold, luxury aluminum watercraft. And through UXUS Jeep Wrangler, Bernhard has fused his love for design and performance, offering custom-crafted Jeeps that represent the adventurous, forward-thinking spirit he embodies.
But perhaps his most visible public venture is as co-owner of Circuit Zandvoort, the iconic racetrack he helped revive to bring Formula 1 racing back to the Netherlands. This move didn’t just energize Dutch motorsport fans—it signaled his ability to blend culture, economy, and passion into powerful national moments.
Lymph&Co: From Survival to Saving Lives
In 2013, Bernhard’s life changed when he was diagnosed with non-Hodgkin lymphoma. What could have been a private struggle became a public mission. Upon surviving cancer, he founded Lymph&Co, a foundation dedicated to research into lymphatic cancer. His determination to create change for others living with this disease has made him one of the most active cancer advocates in Europe.
Through events like De Hollandse 100—a challenge combining 10 kilometers of ice skating and 90 kilometers of cycling—he has helped raise over €4 million to date. These funds have supported eight major international research projects, including collaborations between institutions in the Netherlands, the UK, and the US. Bernhard is not just a donor—he participates in these events himself, side by side with other survivors, researchers, and supporters.
His recent Fund Racing events at Circuit Zandvoort, blending motorsports and charity, show just how creatively he uses his platform to make a difference.
The Man Beyond the Title
Despite his royal background, Bernhard is remarkably grounded. In interviews and public appearances, he often emphasizes the importance of “earning your own way” and building businesses that matter. His kindness is quiet but impactful—whether supporting cancer patients through Lymph&Co or creating jobs and innovation through his companies.
In today’s world, where many leaders are driven by image, Bernhard van Oranje remains driven by impact. He is a survivor, a builder, and a changemaker.
He is a royal not because of birth but because of the way he lives: with courage, compassion, and conviction. In Prince Bernhard van Oranje, we don’t just see a member of a royal family—we see a man who has become a force for good in the world.
Why This Story Matters
This article isn’t just about a prince. It’s about a man who turned his fight against cancer into a movement. About an entrepreneur who created opportunity where others saw risk. About a leader who lives for legacy through contribution.
Prince Bernhard van Oranje is not only writing a royal story—he is writing a human story of purpose, and it’s one the world deserves to know.
