Bobby’s page
That is what the great soccer player Pelé answered to my nervously posed question as to the secret behind his success in 1985. I was 14 and had won a spot in a New York soccer camp through a talent contest.
„What is often missing is a platform”Scroll down to read an interview with Bobby!
In the same moment that I heard his answer it became obvious to me – the school truant and rebel – that I had to become a professional soccer player. Today, 30 years later and with the experience of many ups and downs in my sports career and later as an entrepreneur, I never forgot Pelé’s words. I think to truly decide on a goal depends a lot on testing oneself and staying curious about life, people and different cultures.
The entire Foundation team and I believe that life offers many exciting possibilities – yet to find one‘s own way and belief in oneself is a lifelong challenge. Young people in particular are searching for meaning and are often left alone with it. On the other hand, experienced people would like to pass on their energy and experiences. What is often missing is a platform that brings young people from all around the world together with experienced and competent individuals to jointly engage in inspiring and motivating activities. Dekeyser & Friends aims to become the platform for these encounters.
Many friends from around the world have already become part of our efforts by offering their time, know-how and especially their idealism. We hope many of you reading these lines will join in as well and become part of the Dekeyser&Friends movement.
Yours truly,
Bobby Dekeyser
Founder and Chairman of the Board, Dekeyser&Friends Foundation
Questions for Bobby Dekeyser
What is your most outstanding memory from when you were young?
The moment when I stood up in the middle of an English lesson, said good-bye and left – I was 15 and had decided to become a professional soccer player.
Why soccer?
I did different sports but there were never any girls watching us. They all went to see the soccer games. So I decided to play soccer as well. Since I did not have much talent they put me into the goal. Six months after I started playing I had my first girlfriend.
What was the best moment in your soccer career?
When, after 2 weeks of test-training with Bayern Munich, I was told that I had made it and got a contract. I was 18 years old.
What was the worst moment in your soccer career?
My face injury at the age of 26. However, there were many difficult situations on and off the pitch – most had to do with me not catching the ball.
Why did you start DEDON?
I was already doing many creative things on the side during my soccer career. After the face accident I decided to quit and start a new career with my family and friends. We called the company DEDON.
What does DEDON mean?
As with so many things, the name was an accident. My brother-in-law from Italy was the first to visit me in the hospital. His name is Donapai, my name Dekeyser – DEDON was born.
What was your vision for DEDON?
To create a platform with family and friends in a great environment (we lived on a big farm) and develop wonderful handcrafted products.
Was your work a team effort?
Totally. DEDON really is a friendship story. Even now, with more than 3,000 people, this is still the philosophy.
Tell us five important DEDON memories?
There was our first order of 1,000 chairs to the Bahamas – we were so happy. Within three months all 1,000 chairs fell apart and we had to replace them – that was almost the end.
In the first several years I delivered the furniture with an opera singer who sang for the customers.
The unbelievable events we organized with our employees in the Philippines.
Sleeping in the DEDON trucks at the design fairs because we could not afford a hotel – we had beer and probably more fun than any customer of a five star hotel.
When we were told that Hollywood stars are now buying our furniture.
What’s good about being an optimist?
The secure feeling that everything will work out in the end. Not to be dependent on outside opinions. Making the best out of most moments.
What’s bad about it?
Nothing.
Why did you start the foundation?
To exchange experiences with young people and our friends, share energy and have great adventures.
Plans for the future?
Tour around the world with my wife for our 25th wedding anniversary. See the foundation grow into a movement with fantastic, inspiring projects.