From “Problem Child” to Entrepreneur: Dennis Fransz Inspires Youth During Entrepreneurship Talk
Dennis’ Story – From Messing Around to Taking Responsibility
Dennis began his talk with honesty and openness.“I was sixteen, father of twins, skipping school, and working three part-time jobs… No one thought I would ever amount to anything — including myself.”
Yet, he slowly found his own path. Not because he knew exactly what to do, but because he kept getting back up even when no one was watching. His message was clear: everyone has the ability to rewrite their story, no matter the label others give you.
He asked the audience, “Who here has ever felt like others already defined who you were before you even got to know yourself?”
From Surviving to Growing
Dennis shared how he spent years in survival mode. Living on €50 a week, juggling three jobs, and battling debt.“Surviving is standing still while moving,” he said. “It looks like you’re going forward, but you’re just going in circles.”
Only when he made the choice to take responsibility did real growth begin.“I stopped thinking: ‘Why is this happening to me?’ and started asking: ‘What am I going to do about it?’ That shift from victim to owner changed everything.”
Taking ownership of your own life story became the core of his message. A theme deeply rooted in the values we share within 3X3 Unites and our 3X3 Leaders program. Mindset, Leadership, and Failure as Fuel.
Throughout his talk, Dennis emphasized that leadership begins with honesty towards yourself.“You don’t have to be perfect to grow. The situation may not be your fault, but the solution is your responsibility.”
He also shared how vulnerability became a strength:“I only learned how to lead when I dared to show that I didn’t always have the answers.”
His key lessons:
- Ownership starts with yourself
- Failure isn’t a step back, it’s progress
- Your self-worth should never depend on external validation
- Leadership means letting go and passing it on
An Interactive Session Full of Reflection
Throughout the evening, Dennis turned the focus back to the youth in the room with thought-provoking questions that opened real dialogue. These moments led to reflection, honesty, and recognition. Young attendees asked and answered questions about fear of failure, perseverance, and dealing with setbacks. Dennis encouraged everyone to take one concrete step toward their own growth:
“My story isn’t unique. The only difference is — I didn’t stop. So if you’re wondering whether you can do it… that’s up to you. Every single day.”
Zorg & Zekerheid Partnership
In collaboration with our partner Zorgverzekering Zorg & Zekerheid, we had the opportunity to provide extra support to young people in their personal development. Through this partnership, we received 100 laptops to distribute to those who need them most. During this special evening, the first 18 3X3 Leaders received their laptops. An important step to continue their growth and strengthen their ambitions with the right tools by their side.
Reflection
The Entrepreneurship Talk showed that entrepreneurship doesn’t start with success — it starts with courage. The courage to look at yourself honestly, take responsibility, and start again whenever necessary.It was an inspiring evening filled with stories, reflection, and energy — where Dennis showed that everyone can reach their own NXT Level. A valuable reminder for everyone within the 3X3 Unites community who dares to walk their own path.
Do you want to take new steps in your own development?
Join one of our upcoming workshops and talks within the 3X3 Unites Academy program.
Meet inspiring speakers, entrepreneurs, and 3x3 leaders who just like Dennis show what’s possible when you choose to invest in yourself.
