WILLEMSTAD - Fundashon Pro Bista has been awarded this year’s Appeltje van Oranje, the most distinguished recognition granted by the Oranje Fonds to impactful social initiatives. Dutch Representative Gerbert Kunst visited the foundation on Thursday to personally congratulate the team.

Pro Bista Foundation visits the Governor

Kunst highlighted that Pro Bista has spent decades demonstrating how guidance, rehabilitation and social inclusion for people with visual impairments can be structurally improved. Founded in 1972 as an association, the foundation has since evolved into a fully established care institution with extensive partnerships spanning education, government and the private sector.

Empowering People With Visual Impairments

The award underscores Pro Bista’s essential role in promoting integration and independence for visually impaired individuals on Curaçao. Its team of professionals and volunteers provides support with schoolwork, vocational skills and daily self-reliance, while also offering information sessions and digitalizing study materials to broaden accessibility.

During his visit, Kunst received a detailed overview of Pro Bista’s many projects as well as the challenges the organization faces. He praised the commitment of the staff and volunteers, emphasizing that Pro Bista “makes a visible difference in the Curaçaoan community in many ways.”

The Appeltje van Oranje award is widely regarded as one of the Kingdom’s most significant honors for organizations dedicated to social impact and strengthening communities.