WILLEMSTAD – In a recent presentation titled “Leisure Events as Catalysts for Narrative Change: The Case of Kaya Kaya Festival, Curaçao”, researchers Dr. Ilja Simons from Breda University of Applied Sciences in the Netherlands and Corina Regales from the University of Curaçao shared their findings with the Kaya Kaya Movement team and invited guests. The study explores how cultural events like the Kaya Kaya Festival can reshape public perception and narratives about neighborhoods.
The presentation, which took place at the University of Curaçao during the Tourism and Leisure Studies conference on June 18, 2025, is currently under peer review for publication in the Annals of Leisure Research, a leading academic journal. The research, conducted alongside Nadège Heyligar, offers a qualitative scientific analysis of how leisure events can influence opinions and conversations about community development.
The study focuses on the Kaya Kaya Festival’s role in the transformation of Otrobanda’s public image. Through interviews with residents and stakeholders, workshops held during the 2024 Kaya Kaya Urban School, and observations from Art Week and the Kaya Kaya Festival, the researchers gained a deeper understanding of how perceptions of Otrobanda have evolved—from a neighborhood once deemed dangerous and neglected, to one that is lively, colorful, and celebrated.
Key changes noted in the research include the physical revitalization of the area, such as cleaned streets, repurposed abandoned buildings, new murals, public art installations, and even the construction of an amphitheater. These visible transformations have been accompanied by increased community participation, entrepreneurship, and cultural pride. Residents and local business owners are now more engaged, selling food and products, showcasing art, and contributing to the festival in meaningful ways.
The festival has helped restore a sense of pride among Otrobanda’s residents, with one participant stating, “You can now walk around peacefully and enjoy our history and art.” The festival not only attracts tourists but also has become a regular destination for locals.
However, the research also highlighted emerging challenges. Rising property prices, increased tourism, and concerns that the festival might become overly commercial at the expense of its social mission were noted. The researchers emphasized the need to maintain a balance between growth and preserving the authenticity and inclusivity of the community.
At the close of the presentation, Kaya Kaya Foundation directors Kurt Schoop and Raygen Zuiverloon thanked the researchers for their valuable insights. They reaffirmed their commitment to continuing the foundation’s social and cultural projects, engaging residents and entrepreneurs in the development of Otrobanda, and considering the community feedback and concerns raised in the study for future planning.
The Kaya Kaya Movement sees inclusivity as a core value and is committed to remaining a key partner in discussions with government and other stakeholders to ensure a sustainable and positive transformation for Otrobanda—one that reflects its growth, concerns, and authentic identity.
Photo (left to right): Caroline Manuel (Director of the Infrastructure and Urban Planning Sector, Ministry of VVRP), Tamara Nivillac (Kaya Kaya Project Management), Kurt Schoop (Director, Kaya Kaya Foundation), researchers Dr. Ilja Simons and Corina Regales, and Raygen Zuiverloon (Director, Kaya Kaya Foundation).
