Twelve young people from Otrobanda shared their stories, dreams, and talents during a special photo exhibition and community dinner organized by HUNTU Curaçao Foundation on May 21. The evening brought together young people, policymakers, professionals, entrepreneurs, and residents around one central message: strong communities create strong youth.
WILLEMSTAD – The stories, talents, dreams, and future aspirations of young people from Otrobanda took center stage during the closing event of the Living History project organized by HUNTU Curaçao Foundation. Through a photo exhibition, spoken-word presentations, and a community dinner, visitors were given a unique insight into the lives of twelve young people who participated in the program over the past several months.
Throughout the project, the participants explored their identity, their neighborhood, and their future through photography, storytelling, art, personal development, and conversations with one another and their community. The exhibition served as the visible result of that journey.
The photo exhibition was officially opened by His Excellency Mauritsz de Kort, Governor of Curaçao. Following the opening, he joined the community dinner and spoke with the young participants about their experiences, dreams, and future plans.
A recurring theme throughout the evening was the importance of community, connection, and shared responsibility in the development of young people. Wladimir Kleinmoedig, Director of Education at the Ministry of Education, Science, Culture and Sport (OWCS), referred in his speech to the Ubuntu philosophy: “Ubuntu: I am because we are. I am who I am because of who we all are.”
Lizette Sambo-Velder, Director of Culture at OWCS, also emphasized the importance of a strong community surrounding young people, stating: “It takes a village to raise a child.” These messages closely reflected the vision of HUNTU Curaçao Foundation, which sees young people not as separate from their environment, but as part of a larger network of families, schools, residents, organizations, and society as a whole.
The Governor visiting the HUNTU Curaçao Foundation
In addition to the exhibition, attendees enjoyed a community dinner featuring traditional dishes from Otrobanda, prepared under the leadership of local resident Michel Magdalena. The service was provided by mothers from the neighborhood. As a result, the evening became not only a platform for young people, but also a celebration of the strength of the community itself.
Several current and prospective partners were also present, including Wintertuin Curaçao, creating opportunities for future collaboration and follow-up initiatives.
According to HUNTU Curaçao Foundation, the strength of the evening lay not only in the artwork that was presented, but especially in the connections that were formed among members of the community.
“When young people are given the space to tell their stories and adults take the time to truly listen, something special happens. Not only for the young people, but for the entire community,” said Debora Bakker of HUNTU Curaçao Foundation.
HUNTU Curaçao Foundation consists of Lara Melkert, Debora Bakker, and Nelida Cathalina. Two years ago, they launched the first edition of the project in Otrobanda. Since then, the initiative has continued to grow, and this year Living History Curaçao was conducted simultaneously in both Otrobanda and Koraalspecht.
Together with a dedicated team of workshop facilitators, volunteers, social professionals, parents, and community residents, the foundation works to strengthen young people, families, and communities based on the belief that sustainable social development begins within neighborhoods themselves.
In addition to the creative workshops, a social-emotional support program was provided under the leadership of Nelida Cathalina, child coach and community activator for HUNTU Curaçao Foundation. The program focused on strengthening self-confidence, resilience, and personal development among participants.
Various workshop facilitators also contributed throughout the project by sharing their knowledge, experience, and talents with the young people. As a result, participants not only gained creative skills but were also encouraged to explore new possibilities for their future.
For HUNTU Curaçao Foundation, Living History Curaçao is not the end point but rather the first step in a broader long-term vision. The foundation is currently developing several programs, including Women Circles, Father Circles, Community Activation projects in various neighborhoods, workshops and exhibitions, and the exploration of a future Youth Court Curaçao.
These initiatives are designed to provide long-term support for young people, families, and communities while strengthening connections between them. The foundation deliberately collaborates with existing initiatives and organizations that can further assist youth and families.
In addition, the organization is exploring ways to combine practical experience, research insights, and scientific knowledge to further strengthen its approach. The experiences gained through Living History Curaçao serve as an important foundation for these future developments.
HUNTU Curaçao Foundation extends its gratitude to all the young people, parents, volunteers, partners, professionals, neighborhood residents, and visitors who contributed to the success of the project.
Because, as was emphasized several times throughout the evening: “It takes a village to raise a child.”