About us
At VDV Internacional Golf Manejo, our mission is to foster a passion for golf by organizing high-quality sports and social events. We aim to become global leaders in creating unique golf-related experiences, offering tournaments, exclusive trips, and tailored services that meet the high expectations of our clients.
Our dedication is to providing unforgettable experiences on the world's most iconic golf courses, alongside personalized services ranging from golf lesson packages with Jean Van De Velde, corporate events for our valued clients, to the design and construction of golf courses tailored to the desires of our passionate clientele. We strive to ensure every detail is meticulously managed to guarantee that each experience is exceptional and memorable, making every encounter with us a pinnacle of golfing excellence.
Jean Van de Velde
Founder
Jean Van De Velde, born on May 29, 1966, in Mont-de-Marsan, Landes, France, began playing golf at the tender age of six and quickly showcased his talent by joining the French boys' team as a teenager. He won the French Youths Championship and the French Amateur Championship, and was a three-time French champion, including twice in the under-21 category. His early promise led him to represent France in various international competitions and he finished fourth in the European championships and eleventh in the world championships. Jean was a key player for the continental team in the under-18, under-21, and amateur categories, as well as a member of the French men's team.
Choosing to turn professional rather than accepting offers from American universities, Jean embarked on a notable career where he competed alongside and against some of the world’s top players, such as Severiano Ballesteros and Tiger Woods. He amassed eleven victories, including two on the European tour and one on the Asian tour, making history as the first Frenchman to win on the European Tour. Jean spent twenty-two years on the European tour and retained his playing rights on the PGA Tour during 2000 and 2001, a unique achievement for a French player. He competed in all the Majors, played in the Seve Trophy, and was the first Frenchman to participate in a Ryder Cup. Notably, he nearly clinched the Open Championship at Carnoustie in 1999, losing in a playoff.
Jean's influence extended beyond the green. He served on the European Tour's players' committee for over a decade, sat on the board of directors for the same tour, as well as the prestigious Ryder Cup board, reflecting his expertise and commitment to the sport. He also directed the French Open for five years from 2012 to 2016.
Jean’s commitment to societal well-being is evident through his role as a UNICEF France ambassador, making him only the second French sportsman to receive this accolade. Jean has also been an ambassador for Lacoste, and a commentator for the BBC, Sky Sports, Canal+, and the dedicated Golf+ channel.
Currently, Jean focuses on nurturing new talent through his golf academy in Paris, which he founded with Éric Douennelle, demonstrating the same enthusiasm and rigor he has shown throughout his career. His journey from a celebrated athlete to a philanthropic leader exemplifies a life dedicated to excellence and empathy, making significant strides in both the sports and humanitarian arenas.
The Directors Team
Jeovana Van De Velde
CEO
Jeovana Van De Velde was born in Sonora, Mexico, and spent 32 years in the United States, where she trained in Communication and Journalism. Her career has focused on non-profit organizations and public relations. Thanks to her bilingual fluency in English and Spanish, Jeovana has made a significant impact in both countries, developing support programs for women and children in the United States and Mexico.
During an interview and press conference at the PGA Championship in Tucson, Arizona, Jeovana met golfer Jean Van De Velde. This professional relationship blossomed into a marriage, and together they have collaborated on behalf of youth and children globally. They have organized international sports events in France and Mexico, known for their top-quality entertainment, bringing triumphs and joy to both professional and amateur participants. Their initiatives have supported golfers in pursuing their sports careers and achieving international success.
Recently, Jeovana returned to Mexico, where she has lived for the past three years. During this time, she led as the Executive Director of a non-profit organization in Punta de Mita, Nayarit, standing out for her leadership in creating community programs and maintaining a close connection with the local community. Additionally, she continues to support Jean in his sporting activities, promoting the development of youth and children through their collaboration.
Currently, Jeovana focuses her efforts on fostering an inclusive golf culture in Mexico, aiming to expand the sport and provide more opportunities for both golfers and those involved in its promotion. Her vision includes job creation and a new perspective on golf, driving economic and social development through the sport.
Jeovana Van De Velde's dedication and professionalism have had a significant impact on the local community and the international sports scene, redefining the role of golf in society and in the lives of future generations.
Alexis Ornelas
COO
Born in the lively coastal city of Puerto Vallarta, Alexis has consistently demonstrated the power of education and cultural immersion. His academic path began at the Universidad de Guadalajara, where he earned a degree in law. At just 20 years old, Alexis ventured to China, expanding his educational and cultural perspectives by mastering the local language.
After becoming a licensed attorney in 2018, Alexis’s career took a global turn with various projects and leadership roles across Hong Kong, Thailand, Japan, and Canada. His work in these regions underscored his adaptability and commitment to fostering international collaborations.
Alexis has received recognition for his contributions to human rights defense from the OAS and holds an additional degree in forensic psychology from UDG. His diverse skill set is further enhanced by certifications in human resources management from the University of Minnesota, reflecting his wide-ranging interests in the arts, philanthropy, and linguistics.
Prior to his current position, Alexis contributed to several civil organizations and foundations, developing programs that significantly impacted social and community welfare. In April 2024, he took on the role of Operations Director at VDV Internacional Golf Manejo. His extensive international experience and comprehensive background are instrumental in driving the company's global initiatives and enhancing its operations, subtly supporting philanthropic efforts through strategic corporate responsibilities.