Farewell to Dick Oosting: A Steady Hand, a Wise Heart
Today we celebrate and honour one of Asylos’ longest-standing and most cherished trustees, Dick Oosting.
After many years of dedicated service, thoughtful leadership, and deep commitment to our mission, Dick is stepping back from his role with Asylos.
It’s hard to imagine Asylos without Dick’s calm, steady presence and his signature blend of warmth, wisdom, and quiet strength. From the very beginning, he has been a guiding force — helping to shape the organisation’s direction, mentoring fellow trustees, and reminding us all of the human heart at the centre of our work.
Many of us have known Dick for years — some from Freedom from Torture, others meeting him first through Asylos — and the words that come up time and again when we think of him are kind, steady, wise, and generous. As one colleague put it, “You’ve always made me feel at ease — steady, kind, and full of wisdom. Your calm presence has been a true anchor, and I will always be grateful for everything you’ve given.” Another reflected on the learning and inspiration that came from working alongside him: “You have surely made a lasting impact on the organisation and its Board. Your insights and expertise have been invaluable — I have learned a lot from you as a fellow trustee.”
For many, Dick’s greatest strength has been his ability to lead with empathy — to offer clear guidance while always leaving space for others, to navigate challenges with calm pragmatism, and to never lose sight of the people behind the processes. As one message shared, “I have learned a lot from you about what it means to offer strong yet kind leadership — giving clear directions while leaving others space, navigating organisational constraints while always keeping the human central.”
Dick’s impact has been deeply personal, too. He has shaped not only Asylos’ governance but also the people around him. One colleague summed it up beautifully: “If I were still a child and someone asked me what I’d like to be when I grow up, I would definitely say, ‘I want to be like Dick.’ You have truly made a lasting impact on the organisation, its board, and on me personally.”
Whether it was welcoming new board members, brainstorming ideas over funding pitches, or sharing a moment of laughter (sometimes with his dog in tow!), Dick brought an openness and warmth that made everyone feel part of something bigger. “You always made the Board such a welcoming place for new joiners — we will miss you, and your dog!” wrote one colleague. Another recalled: “I still remember being a little bit intimidated by the wealth of experience you had when I first joined. I quickly found out that you were very welcoming and always shared your thoughts in an open and enthusiastic way, inspiring me to speak up as well.” As someone else reflected, “It is very clear that you have made such a wonderful contribution over the years. We have so much appreciated your calm and thoughtful presence on the Board, as well as your deep wisdom on all things. We have been lucky to have you, and you will be sorely missed.”
As Dick steps away from his role, we know that his influence will remain woven into Asylos’ DNA — in the way we approach our mission, in the values we uphold, and in the care we show one another.
From everyone at Asylos: thank you, Dick, for your years of service, your generosity of spirit, and the many ways you have helped this organisation grow. We wish you a retirement filled with joy, peace, and perhaps a few long walks with your four-legged friend.
With heartfelt gratitude,
The Asylos Team and Board