CURAÇAO:--- From October 16–18, 2025, JCI SXM A.C.T.I.O.N proudly represented St. Maarten at the highly anticipated JCI Dutch Caribbean National Convention, a landmark event uniting chapters from across the Dutch Caribbean in celebration of leadership, impact, and collaboration.
The seven-member delegation was joined by five special guests, including the 1st runner-up of JCI SXM A.C.T.I.O.N’s 2025 Interscholastic Speech Competition, Jada Smith and her coach for the competition Mrs. Cheryl Dangleben-York from Caribbean Pearls Toastmasters Club. This annual convention saw participants engage in strategic meetings, national public speaking and debate competitions, and immersive training sessions designed to prepare the region’s next generation of changemakers. The convention also served as a celebration of the accomplishments of local JCI organizations throughout the Dutch Caribbean and an opportunity to build momentum heading into the new year.
This year proved to be especially historic for JCI SXM A.C.T.I.O.N. The chapter secured a total of eight awards for its outstanding contributions to community development and youth empowerment. In addition, Ms. Anjeanee Mathew was elected as the 2026 JCI Dutch Caribbean National President, and Ms. Christine Regis will be joining her board as the National Secretary, further cementing St. Maarten’s leadership presence at the regional level..
Among the highlights was the chapter’s win for Best Inter-Organization Collaboration Project for their impactful “Cover Your Lover” Safe Sex Campaign. This initiative brought together several local partners, including the St. Maarten AIDS Foundation, Collective Prevention Services (CPS), Kalaboom, Dirty Dawgs, and various Carnival booth owners. The campaign promoted sexual health awareness in an engaging, culturally relevant way during Carnival 2025.
JCI SXM A.C.T.I.O.N also celebrated a strong showing in the national public speaking competitions. One Local Vice President Aisha-Jamila Mussington took home the Public Speaking Award Advanced Level, while another, Delano Samuel who only joined the organization in January, received the Public Speaking Award Rookie Level. The Youth Public Speaking Award was proudly claimed by the young delegate representing the Interscholastic Speech Competition, who had impressed judges with her poise, clarity, and message.
Delano Samuel who received the Rookie Award was further honoured as the Most Outstanding New Member, recognizing his remarkable commitment and impact within less than a year of joining the organization.
A moving moment during the convention was the Ten Outstanding Young Persons (TOYP) Awards Ceremony, where three inspiring individuals from St. Maarten were recognized for their achievements. Awards were presented in the fields of Medical Innovation to Ms. Rolinda Carter, Business and Economic Accomplishment to Mr. Louinel “Skelet” Telisma who was accompanied by his wife Melissa Boasman, and Personal Improvement and Development to Ms. Dannah Abraham. Two of the recipients were present to accept their awards and delivered powerful remarks, while the third was represented by the chapter’s Local President.
The JCI SXM A.C.T.I.O.N delegation expressed their heartfelt appreciation for the recognition received and emphasized that the achievements reflect the collective effort of the chapter’s members, partners, and supporters. They credited the island’s spirit of community and collaboration as the driving force behind their success.
As the organization looks ahead to 2026, its members remain committed to creating positive change through leadership, service, and unity, reaffirming that “Opportunities Never End”, and that together, they are truly O.N.E.
For more information on JCI SXM A.C.T.I.O.N’s achievements and upcoming activities, please follow our Facebook and Instagram pages at JCI SXM Action.
PHILIPSBURG:--- The Second Annual St. Maarten Reading Festival, held at the close of Literacy Month 2025, has been hailed a resounding success. The two-day event, a collaborative endeavor by The Sint Maarten Library, Biblionef Nederland, The Ministry of Education, Culture, Youth, and Sports, The University of St. Maarten, Help our Children Foundation, and 721 kids Foundation, brought together students, educators, and the general public to celebrate the power and joy of reading.
PHILIPBSBURG:--- In a move for animal welfare on the island, Minister of Public Health, Social Development and Labor, Hon. Richinel Brug, and Member of Parliament Francisco A. Lacroes once again have reaffirmed their commitment to supporting community-driven initiatives aimed at improving the lives of St. Maarten’s most vulnerable its stray animal population. Following a motion presented by MP Lacroes during the 2025 Budget Debate in June, and a request from the Animal Welfare Foundation in August, the Ministry has agreed to allocate XCG20.000 toward a comprehensive sterilization and public education program designed to humanely control the growing number of stray animals on the island. The motion, which did not received broad support in Parliament, outlines funding from the Ministries of TEATT and VSA to cover spaying and neutering procedures, post-operative care, and awareness campaigns promoting responsible pet ownership. MP Lacroes emphasized the urgency of the issue, citing health risks such as leptospirosis and ringworm, which disproportionately affect children and vulnerable populations. “This is not only about animal welfare, it’s about public health and community safety,” Lacroes stated. “We must act now to prevent further suffering and ensure a cleaner, safer environment for all.” Minister Brug echoed this sentiment, praising the initiative and the organization and all volunteers and has confirmed the Ministry’s support. The program will be executed in collaboration with local veterinary professionals and non-profit organizations, including SXM PAWS and international partners such as 4 Leaf Rover, whom have also reached out to Minister Brug for support. A report on the campaign’s progress will be submitted to the Ministry and Parliament within six months of its implementation. MP Lacroes also proposed a legislative amendment to include a fee on animal import permits, creating a sustainable funding mechanism for future animal welfare programs, hoping that this also is taken up by the ministry responsible. This initiative marks a significant step forward in addressing long-standing concerns about stray animals on the island and reflects the government’s and parliaments growing commitment to holistic community care.
PHILIPSBURG:--- On Friday, October 17, the Sint Maarten National Heritage Foundation & Museum officially launched its Tours of Culture project under the Let’s ACT Program. The launch was hosted at the Museum in Philipsburg. It featured a lively and interactive drum performance by Samy Alexis & Mr. Snow and guided historical tours through the museum by historian Jean-Marc Augusty.
