This family website celebrates the shared heritage and individual achievements of the very small Schooneknaep family (7 living members), proudly represented by niece and nephew Ilse and Gaëtan.
Here, you’ll find dedicated sections highlighting their distinct professional journeys, expertise, and accomplishments. Whether you're looking to learn more about their work or connect directly, this website offers a way to explore their unique contributions and shared commitment to excellence.
01
I'm Ilse
A FREELANCE PRODUCER BASED IN GHENT
Ilse Schooneknaep (°1990) is a seasoned freelance producer and researcher with over a decade of experience in the audiovisual sector. With a strong academic background, including a Master’s in Communication Science (University of Brussels), a Master’s in Film Studies (University of Kent), and a Fulbright Scholarship, she began her career as a researcher at the VUB, contributing to the Mecetes project.
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During her research years, Ilse worked as an industry programmer for the Ostend Film Festival and served as a consultant for various Flemish film companies, such as Brutteo, De Wereldvrede, Bullitproof Cupid, Potemkino and Borgerhoff & Lamberigts. As a producer, she is known for her focus on documentaries and series that explore deep human emotions and vulnerability, often delving into themes like life and death, aging, and human rights. She produces these audiovisual works under her own Poolhert Productions label.
Currently, she works as a consultant for Mediapartners within the Flanders Tax Shelter group, specializing in film and series financing, tax shelter strategies, and overall production strategy. She also teaches film and authorship at RITCS film school and Vives and is a founding member of the WANDA Collective, an organization dedicated to promoting gender equality and diversity in the industry.
Ilse is currently pursuing an MBA at Vlerick Business School, further expanding her skills in business and leadership.
02
I'm Gaëtan
Bridging Strategy and Operations
from Prep Room to Boardroom
Gaëtan Schooneknaep (°1988) is Business Strategy Director at EXKi, a Belgian-European Healthy Restaurant Brand, with a strong track record in rebranding, shaping and implementing growth strategies where he focuses on sustainability and responsible business practices.
Prior to EXKi, Gaëtan has worked with prominent companies such as Avolta-Autogrill, NMBS/SNCB, and Kinepolis on F&B place making strategies, rebranding of concepts, enhancing both profitability and customer experiences across Belgium, Germany, the Netherlands, France and Switzerland.
He thrives on solving complex challenges through innovative, data-driven approaches and is known for his analytical skills and out-of-the-box thinking. As a natural leader and motivator, he excels in managing diverse teams, fostering collaboration, and driving shared objectives. As a skilled communicator, fluent in multiple languages, he effectively navigates diverse environments and consistently delivers results.
Passionate about sustainability, he is dedicated to making a positive impact both professionally and in his community.
Gaëtan holds a Bachelor in Real Estate Management from University-College Ghent and is currently pursuing an MBA at Vlerick Business School Ghent, further expanding his skills in business and leadership.
Gaëtan lives near Bruges with his wife and two kids and enjoys traveling with them.