WILLEMSTAD - Until the end of May 2025, young people and their parents in various Curaçao neighborhoods will receive support from street coaches under the Fundashon Bicentini initiative. These coaches, often local volunteers or neighborhood parents, act as trusted mentors, guiding youth on social issues, assisting with personal challenges, and coaching them as part of neighborhood teams.
Street coach Shurner Elizabeth, based in the Montana neighborhood, is an example of this hands-on approach, spending every day working closely with children in her community.
Wide Range of Responsibilities
Street coaches play a multifaceted role that includes:
Conducting home visits to check on family dynamics.
Accompanying young people to neighborhood activities.
Supervising and organizing training sessions.
Encouraging resilience and determination during challenges.
Their consistent presence in neighborhoods fosters trust, allowing them to identify and address problems early. In cases where rules are broken, street coaches collaborate with parents, schools, and other stakeholders to devise appropriate measures.
Community Engagement in Action
In Weto, street coach Jos plays a pivotal role by engaging youth during weekly activities and translating these lessons into performance strategies for competitions. This hands-on guidance bridges recreational activities with life skills development, reinforcing discipline and teamwork.
Support from Fundashon Bicentini
The project is managed by Fundashon Bicentini, founded by former Curaçao national soccer coach Remko Bicentini. The foundation not only trains street coaches but also assists them with complex cases, creating a network of support for youth.
“This collaboration helps establish a safe and nurturing environment for young people in their own neighborhoods,” says Bicentini. “We aim to address contemporary challenges constructively and responsibly.”
More Than Just Coaches
Street coaches are more than authority figures; they are confidants and problem-solvers. By providing practical assistance and emotional support, they help youth build a stable foundation for their futures.
“This neighborhood-focused initiative showcases how local involvement can make a real difference in the lives of young people,” Bicentini adds.
With its emphasis on mentorship, structure, and community support, the Fundashon Bicentini project exemplifies how grassroots efforts can transform neighborhoods and empower the next generation.
