Bert Sweerts studied philosophy, Germanic literature and theology, and his career has spanned pastoral work, advising on healthcare, and working for microfinance organization Oikocredit Nederland. Bert has also been involved as a donor, member or activist with numerous organizations over the years, including Pax Christi, the international Catholic peace movement; NVMP, a Dutch group working in the field of peace and health issues; and Upact, an organization that aims to inform citizens about the causes of conflicts and encourage them to use their influence to bring about change.