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Breda | 2 June 2025

Pieter Buist: ‘voor een kind betekent het de wereld’

Pieter Buist is a professional martial artist and trainer for special investigating officers (BOAs). He grew up in poverty and knows better than anyone how important it is to have opportunities. As an ambassador for the Youth Fund for Sports and Culture, he is committed to giving children that opportunity.

From street to success

I started with judo, fought over a hundred kickboxing matches, and eventually discovered MMA (Mixed Martial Arts). But there was also a period where I ended up out on the street. That was a turning point: I decided to pursue my dream. I had nothing to lose. I saw that successful people surround themselves with the right people. So I found a gym, trained every day, got a job, paid off my debts, and kept fighting—literally and figuratively. Eventually, I became a champion, again and again, until I could make a living from it.

The power of sport

I'm honored to be an ambassador because I know how important it is for children to have access to sports. My family couldn't afford kickboxing classes, but I was still allowed to join the competitive group. That was the first time I was good at something. When we couldn't afford the membership fee, I cried in the gym. My trainer saw that and gave me a chance: if I helped set up the boxing rings, I could keep training. That hard work has shaped me. Sports can truly make a difference in a person's life.

A world of difference

Growing up without money, you're left behind and feel left out, in my experience. Sports then mean so much more than just exercise – it brings you discipline, respect, perseverance, and a group of people who help you progress. For a child struggling, sports can be a source of support. I see that in the eyes of children struggling with themselves. If, as an ambassador, I can help such a boy or girl see that things can be done differently, then my mission has been accomplished.

Growing up without money leaves you feeling left behind and excluded. Sports means so much more than just exercise – it brings you discipline, respect, perseverance, and a group of people who support you.

Good example

I recently met a young man with a successful business. I knew him from back when he was going through a really tough time. Thanks to a sports program, he was able to turn his life around. I've also used sports to improve my life, and without realizing it, I've become a role model. That realization only hits me when others tell me so.

Shame and ignorance

Shame plays a big role, and sometimes I still feel it. Children and parents don't readily ask for help, even though it's readily available. That's why the Youth Fund is so important. It breaks the vicious cycle. Playing sports or music also means a brief escape from worries and stress. And I want that for every child. And what about swimming lessons, which the Youth Fund helps so many children with? That's truly unique in the Netherlands, that almost everyone can swim. These things should be accessible to every child.

Facts about Pieter

How old are you? I am 37 years old

What is your favorite sport? MMA (Mixed Martial Arts) of course!

Favorite song? Right now it's “Bachata Rosa” by Juan Luis Guerra, thanks to my Spanish girlfriend.

What are you proud of? On my world title in 2019, turning full-time pro, and recently finding happiness in love again.

What do you do if you win 1 million? Investing wisely, so it continues to grow and I can both make a living and help others. I come from poverty, so financial stability and avoiding financial stress are very concrete goals.

What do you want for children in Breda? The opportunity to discover themselves. Talent development should be a given for every child. This can make the difference between getting stuck and building a future.