Saartje Prinsen obtained her master’s degree in urban design and spatial planning at KU Leuven in Ghent. She has a strong interest in both open spaces and urban environments. With this degree, she wanted to contribute to spatial challenges and make a positive social impact. She also saw the programme as an opportunity to develop her analytical and design skills.

During her studies, she immersed herself in strategic planning, master plans and spatial analyses. Themes such as conflict management, participation and Flemish spatial instruments were also covered extensively. In her thesis, she investigated how neighbourhood initiatives in private spaces, such as book lifts, façade benches and murals in Kessel-Lo, contribute to neighbourhood cohesion. This research increased her understanding of the role of local projects in social cohesion and quality of life.