WILLEMSTAD – The Curaçao Federation of Savings and Credit Cooperatives (Fekoskan) has expressed satisfaction with the successful first edition of the Curaçao Cooperative Convention 2026, held on Saturday, October 31, at the Corendon Mangrove Beach Resort.
The convention, organized as part of Fekoskan's 65th anniversary celebrations, brought together leaders from the cooperative sector, government representatives, experts, and a significant number of young participants interested in the future of cooperatives in Curaçao.
Under the theme "Building Financial Well-Being, Innovation, and Sustainable Communities," the event provided a platform for discussions about the development of the cooperative movement and the opportunities for greater collaboration among cooperative organizations.
According to Fekoskan, the convention exceeded expectations and demonstrated the importance of bringing together different generations and stakeholders to strengthen the sector.
Focus on Financial Well-Being and Digital Innovation
Throughout the convention, participants attended presentations, strategic discussions, and exchanges of ideas focusing on innovation, digitalization, financial well-being, and sustainable community development.
A central theme was the importance of strengthening cooperation among existing cooperatives to improve services and create additional opportunities for their members.
Speakers and participants explored how technological developments and innovative approaches could help cooperative organizations adapt to changing economic circumstances while maintaining their commitment to serving their members and communities.
The discussions also highlighted the role cooperatives can play in promoting financial inclusion and supporting sustainable economic development in Curaçao.
Cooperatives Explore Opportunities for Joint Projects
One of the most significant outcomes of the convention was the enthusiasm expressed by participating cooperatives to pursue closer cooperation.
According to Fekoskan, several organizations demonstrated a willingness to explore opportunities to share resources, develop joint projects, and strengthen partnerships that could benefit both their members and the wider Curaçao community.
The federation considers this commitment an important step toward building a more united and resilient cooperative sector.
By working together, cooperatives may be better positioned to address common challenges, improve operational efficiency, and develop services that respond to the evolving needs of their members.
The participation of young people was also highlighted as an encouraging development, reflecting growing interest in ensuring the continuity of the cooperative movement for future generations.
Fekoskan Celebrates 65 Years of Cooperative Development
The convention formed part of Fekoskan's celebration of 65 years of existence, marking more than six decades of involvement in Curaçao's cooperative sector.
The federation described the event as an example of what can be achieved through shared vision, dedication, and teamwork.
Fekoskan Director Jurphrey Maria and President Earlrich Lourens were among the representatives associated with the convention, alongside Gilbert Martina, Luis Coto Moya, Director of CCC-CA, and Raymond Jamanika.
According to the organizers, participants concluded the event with renewed motivation, fresh ideas, and a stronger commitment to contributing to the continued development of cooperatives on the island.
Fekoskan thanked the speakers, panelists, participants, and partner organizations whose contributions helped make the inaugural convention possible.
Second Convention Planned for 2027
Following the positive response to the first edition, Fekoskan has announced its intention to organize another Curaçao Cooperative Convention in 2027.
The federation hopes to build on the discussions and partnerships initiated during this year's gathering, with particular attention to innovation, cooperation, and sustainable growth.
Fekoskan believes that continued dialogue between cooperative organizations, government representatives, experts, and younger generations can contribute to a stronger and more future-oriented cooperative movement.
The federation views the convention not simply as an anniversary celebration but as the beginning of a broader effort to encourage closer cooperation and strengthen the contribution of cooperatives to Curaçao's economic and social development.