WILLEMSTAD – Trade union DOEN, which represents interests within Curaçao's education sector, has elected its executive board for the 2026–2028 term during its annual statutory meeting held on Thursday, October 29, 2026.
The election took place as part of the union's regular leadership renewal process, which has been held every two years since DOEN was established in 2020.
DOEN's new board
According to the union, the annual meeting and executive board elections had been announced publicly and internally since early September.
Because no opposing candidates came forward, all nominated candidates were elected by acclamation to the positions for which they had registered.
Marbella Felipa will continue as president of DOEN, with Jurine Nieddu-Evertsz serving as vice president.
The newly elected executive board also includes Marie-Kély Pinedoe as treasurer, Dayenne Reed as secretary and Misjenou Romano as second secretary.
Denies Martien and Rolando Chirino have been elected as board commissioners.
Leadership Transition After Six Years
The election also marks a transition within the union's leadership.
Cedric Manuella and Jeroen Heuvel, who helped build and support DOEN during its first six years of existence, have handed over their responsibilities to the newly elected commissioners.
In its press release, the union expressed appreciation for their contributions to the organization's development since its establishment in 2020.
DOEN stated that the new commissioners will continue the union's work in defending workers' interests, particularly within Curaçao's education sector.
Since its founding, the organization has been active in trade union affairs, with a particular focus on issues affecting education professionals.
Members Welcome New Board
Following the statutory meeting, DOEN members welcomed the newly elected executive board during a celebratory gathering.
According to the union, members expressed satisfaction with the election results and marked the occasion with a toast.
The organization described the gathering as a positive start for the new leadership team.
The new executive board is expected to hold its first official meeting shortly.
Following that meeting, DOEN will publish its work plan for the 2026–2027 union year, outlining its priorities and planned activities.
The union has not yet disclosed the specific issues or initiatives that will form part of the upcoming work plan.