WILLEMSTAD – The young men who took part in the Social Formation Program (SVT) titled “A New Beginning” at the Suffisant Marine Barracks have officially received their berets. The group began their journey in early March 2025 with the first phase of the program, guided by the Dutch Defense Forces and social workers from FAJ. 

Over the course of four months, the participants were taught important values and norms such as discipline, self-respect, structure, resilience, confidence, and a sense of responsibility. 

On June 12, a total of 12 young men were awarded their berets and a certificate in a brief but meaningful ceremony in the presence of all involved partners. 

Next Phase 

These 12 participants will now begin the second phase of the program: the “Learning & Work Path” (LWT). During this stage, they will continue their personal development and receive guidance to prepare for employment suited to their individual abilities. This phase will be supervised by the social organization Gwen Inspires. 

Through these two phases, the Government of Curaçao and the Dutch Defense Ministry aim to offer new perspectives and opportunities to local youth. 

Result of Curaçao–Netherlands Cooperation 

This program was made possible through the agreements between Curaçao and the Netherlands under the Country Reform Package (Landspakket). The initiative falls under Theme H18, officially known as the Social Formation Program (Sociaal Vormingstraject). 

It is a collaborative effort between the Ministry of Justice, Ministry of Social Development, Labor and Welfare (SOAW), Ministry of Education, Science, Culture and Sport (OWCS), and the Ministry of Defense. 

New Group Starts in August 2025 

In August 2025, a new group consisting of young women will begin the program. There is still room for new participants. 

If you are between 18 and 24 years old, you can send a WhatsApp message to +5999 563 6626 for more information.