Tjarda Struik

Tjarda C.M. Struik (born 17 April 1986) is a Dutch politician and civil servant representing the People's Party for Freedom and Democracy (VVD). Since 14 November 2023, Struik has been mayor of Leiderdorp.

Early life and education Struik was born in Putten on the Veluwe, where she grew up with her sister and two half-sisters. When she was in primary school, her teachers and parents suspected that she could not see well. Examination revealed the eye disease macular degeneration, a progressive disease. Due to this eye condition, Struik has approximately five percent vision. She obtained a bachelor's and master's degree in psychology in Groningen between 2005 and 2012. On 13 June 2023, she was nominated as the new mayor by the Leiderdorp municipal council. On 14 November of that year, Struik was sworn in as mayor by King's Commissioner Jaap Smit. This made her the first female (almost) blind mayor of the Netherlands. In preparation, she followed an orientation program from the Ministry of the Interior.

In 2021, she started a speakers and consultancy firm, through which she gives lectures on inclusivity and diversity.

Personal life She is married and the mother of two children. Her father was director of the Struik canning factory.