Rik van de Westelaken: A Profile of the Dutch Presenter

Hendrik Peter Johan (Rik) van de Westelaken is a prominent Dutch television presenter, known for his work with the NOS Journaal and his participation in the popular game show Wie is de Mol?. Born on April 22, 1971, in Vlaardingen, Netherlands, Van de Westelaken has established himself as a familiar face in Dutch broadcasting.

Early Life and Education

Van de Westelaken spent his formative years in Maassluis, Hoogblokland, and Uden, being the eldest of three children. He completed his secondary education (vwo) in Uden before pursuing higher education. He initially studied Public Administration at Leiden University (1989-1991), achieving propedeuse, and later transitioned to Communication Science at the University of Amsterdam, graduating in 1996. Source During his time at Leiden University, he served as chairman of the dispuut AquaVite, a subsection of the ALSV Quintus student society.

Career Beginnings

Van de Westelaken began his broadcasting career at the age of 16 with Omroep Kersenland (later Skyline RTV) in Uden. He subsequently worked for the Amsterdam local broadcaster AT5 from 1999, holding roles as a news editor, reporter, and presenter. Source

NOS Journaal and Beyond

His career took a significant step forward when he joined the NOS (Netherlands Public Broadcasting) as a reporter and presenter for the NOS Journaal. He frequently filled in during the 8:00 PM news broadcast. Source From late September 2010, he also served as a substitute presenter for the Radio 1 Journaal. Source

Other Notable Appearances

In 2007, Van de Westelaken was nominated as “Best Dressed Man” by Esquire magazine. Source While reporting on the 2008 Paralympic Summer Games in Beijing, he contracted a bacterial infection that temporarily sidelined him. Source He resumed his presenting duties at the NOS Journaal in February 2009. Source During the 2012 Olympic Summer Games, he presented news bulletins on Nederland 2 and flash news on Nederland 1. Source