WILLEMSTAD – On the eve of the celebration of King Willem-Alexander’s birthday, Curaçao’s centenarians were honored during a special gathering hosted by Governor Mauritsz de Kort at the garden of the Governor’s Palace in Fort Amsterdam.
The event, held on Sunday, April 26, brought together some of the island’s oldest citizens—those aged 100 and above—in a tribute recognizing their contribution to Curaçao society and their unique place in the island’s history.
The initiative was organized by Fundashon Nos Grandinan, with the aim of putting Curaçao’s centenarians in the spotlight and expressing gratitude for their role in shaping generations of family and community life.
In his address, Governor De Kort praised the centenarians for their life experience, resilience and wisdom, calling them a source of inspiration for both young and old.
He described reaching the age of 100 or older as something extraordinary, saying their longevity alone inspires awe and respect.
The Governor reflected on the historic eras the centenarians have lived through, noting that many were born during the reign of Queen Wilhelmina, lived through the reigns of Queen Juliana and Queen Beatrix, and now witness the reign of King Willem-Alexander.
He said their lives span not just a century of personal memories, but a century of Curaçao’s transformation—from colonial rule to the former Netherlands Antilles and eventually to becoming an autonomous country within the Kingdom of the Netherlands.
According to the Governor, the development of Curaçao today is built on the hard work, sacrifices and commitment of this older generation.
He highlighted that many of the centenarians contributed to building families, supporting communities and helping shape the social foundation of the island.
During his speech, De Kort also touched on social security and elderly welfare, noting how the introduction of old-age pensions and social laws based on solidarity principles have played an important role in providing dignity and security for senior citizens.
He acknowledged that the government is currently working on improvements to the AOV pension system and stressed that any reforms should be sustainable and future-oriented.
The Governor emphasized that solidarity toward the elderly must remain a core principle of Curaçao society, ensuring that older generations can continue to live with dignity.
At the same time, he linked the celebration of the centenarians to the future of younger generations, saying the lessons, values and stories of today’s elders remain essential for children, grandchildren and generations yet to come.
He described the centenarians as living proof that strong family support, community care and social connection contribute to long life and well-being.
Following the official ceremony, guests enjoyed a festive afternoon with traditional Curaçao snacks, music and social interaction, creating what organizers described as a warm and nostalgic atmosphere.
The Governor thanked Fundashon Nos Grandinan and organizer Mrs. Coffie for the initiative, expressing hope that the gathering would become an annual tradition in honor of Curaçao’s centenarians.
The event formed part of the broader lead-up to King’s Day celebrations, but for many in attendance, the afternoon became a celebration of something even greater: a century of life, memory and contribution to Curaçao’s history.