KRALENDIJK – With the launch of Miss Dutch Caribbean in 2025, Miss Netherlands has introduced an official additional pathway for women with roots in the Caribbean part of the Kingdom. The initiative offers women from Curaçao, Aruba, Bonaire, Sint Maarten, Saba and Sint Eustatius the opportunity to represent their islands on a national stage in the Netherlands.
According to the organization, Miss Dutch Caribbean is about far more than a traditional beauty pageant. The platform focuses on representation, empowerment and positive visibility of the Caribbean community within the Kingdom. By creating a distinct route within Miss Netherlands, the cultural diversity of the islands is given a more prominent and structural place on the national stage.
The impact of the new initiative was already evident in its first year. The inaugural winner, Shashinduska Nazir, went on to place as 3rd Runner-Up at Miss Netherlands, drawing significant attention to the platform and generating a positive response from across the Caribbean islands.
Founder Alexandra Atalita says the initiative addresses long-standing underrepresentation. “Despite our rich culture and the immense talent of Caribbean women, our islands are often overlooked on national platforms,” she said. “It is time for our islands to be visible—not as a footnote, but as full and equal representation within the Kingdom.”
This year, twelve candidates are taking part in the competition. Nine are competing for the title of Miss Dutch Caribbean, while the organization is introducing a new category, Miss Dutch Caribbean Teen, with three young participants. Through this expansion, the organization aims to engage a younger generation around themes such as leadership, self-confidence and cultural pride.
In addition to providing a stage for contestants, Miss Dutch Caribbean also offers opportunities for Caribbean entrepreneurs. Through partnerships and sponsorships, businesses are able to promote their products and services within the Caribbean community in the Netherlands. The organization emphasizes that it is Caribbean-led and driven by Caribbean pride and ownership.
The Grand Finale of Miss Dutch Caribbean will take place on March 8, 2026, at Theater Lampegiet in Veenendaal. The evening will focus on culture, strength and community.
Alexandra Atalita (credit: Christopher Bregita)