Sjieuwke grew up in rural Friesland, Netherlands, where she developed a deep connection with nature and a passion for exploration. After completing her International Course of Hotel Management in Vienna, she embarked on a journey that led her to New Zealand, which has been her home for nearly 25 years.

Combining her love for sailing with her hospitality background, Sjieuwke has crafted a unique career that allows her to live in eternal summer. She has worked in exclusive luxury lodges and resorts in New Zealand's Queenstown area, as well as on luxury sailing yachts cruising the Mediterranean, Caribbean and west coast of the United States. Her roles have ranged from assistant manager in high-end accommodations to captain on various vessels. Sjieuwke's professional life is split between two hemispheres. Part of the year, she's in New Zealand, sharing the country's beauty and culture with international guests as a naturalist guide. The rest of the time, she works as a boat captain in Europe.
 
A true people person, Sjieuwke excels at creating tailored experiences for her clients. She has a knack for understanding what would make someone's day truly excellent and then making it happen. Her approach to life and work is summed up in her favorite quote: "The pessimist complains about the wind; the optimist expects it to change; the realist adjusts the sails." When not working, Sjieuwke enjoys exploring in her camper van, reading, photographing, drawing or pursuing her newest passion, surfing. Her diverse experiences and adaptable nature allow her to connect with people from all walks of life.