Ten Great Belgian Women to remember

Discover the lives and legacies of these ten great Belgian women who broke down barriers and changed the world through their courage in difficult circumstances.

Isala Van Diest (1842–1916) 

The first female doctor in Belgium, she broke barriers in a male-dominated profession. A strong advocate for women’s rights and public health, she paved the way for female medical professionals in Belgium. Read her story.

Anna Boch (1848–1936) 

A feminist and influential Impressionist art patron, she supported many artists, including Vincent van Gogh. Her legacy lives on in art collections and her promotion of female artistic independence. Read her story.

Marie Janson (1873–1960) 

The first female senator in Belgium, she fought for women’s rights and social justice, playing a crucial role in integrating women into political life. Read her story.

Sister Jules-Marie Heymans (1878–1937) 

A pioneering Belgian nurse, she modernized hospital hygiene and patient care. Her emphasis on scientific nursing practices laid the groundwork for Belgium’s professional nursing education, influencing generations of caregivers. Read her story.

Gabrielle Petit (1893–1916) 

A brave World War I spy, she gathered intelligence for the Allies. Executed by the Germans, she became a national heroine, symbolizing Belgian resistance and sacrifice. Read her story.

Suzanne Spaak (1905–1944) 

A wealthy socialite turned resistance fighter, she played a key role in saving Jewish children from deportation during World War II. Her courage and sacrifice continue to be honored in Holocaust remembrance. Read her story.

Marie-Louise Habets (1905–1986) 

A Belgian nurse who left her convent life to work with wounded soldiers and later helped refugees. Her story inspired The Nun’s Story, shedding light on the difficulties of religious life and the dedication of wartime nurses. Read her story.

Augusta Chiwy (1921–2015) 

A Belgian-Congolese nurse who bravely treated wounded soldiers during the Battle of the Bulge. Overlooked for decades, she was later recognized for her heroism and dedication. Read her story.

Hortense Daman Clews (1926–2006) 

A teenage resistance fighter during World War II, she smuggled messages and weapons. Arrested and sent to Ravensbrück concentration camp, she survived and became a symbol of youthful defiance against oppression. Read her story.

Jeannine Deckers (The Singing Nun, 1933–1985) 

Known as “Sœur Sourire,” she gained international fame with her 1963 hit Dominique. Despite her success, she struggled with financial and personal hardships. Her legacy remains as a symbol of artistic integrity and the challenges faced by unconventional women in religious life. Read her story.

Thanks for reading. If you have a suggestion for a remarkable Belgian woman you would like to see profiled on Discovering Belgium, drop me a line.

Denzil Walton

I created Discovering Belgium in 2011 to share the country’s hidden stories, fascinating places, and remarkable people. Through articles, photography, and audio walks, I share discoveries that reveal Belgium beyond the obvious. Hope you enjoy this site.