~New Deadline is February 14th, 2025, register projects via www.sxmdoet.com~

PHILIPSBURG:--- The SXM DOET team would like to inform all community organizations that the deadline for project registration and funding applications has been extended to Friday, February 14th, 2025.
“We initially set the deadline for February 7th, but after considering feedback from organizations, we decided to extend it by an additional week,” said the SXM DOET team. “This extension will give organizations more time to brainstorm and complete their registration. We are aiming for 90 registered projects, and we are currently halfway to that goal.”
This year’s deadline extension reflects the later dates for SXM DOET. The event will take place on May 16th and 17th, 2025, but to avoid any delays due to the change in dates, the deadline for applications remains in February. “We hope that this adjustment will help organizations better plan and prepare for their projects,” added the project management team. While the deadline has been extended, it is important to note that this new date will be strictly adhered to in order to meet the registration goals.
Community organizations, including non-profits, schools, social clubs, churches, and other organizations with social impact, are invited to register their SXM DOET projects and apply for funding at www.sxmdoet.com. Once registered, organizations can apply for up to $650 in funding to help complete their projects during SXM DOET 2025.
SXM DOET, which will be held on May 16th and 17th, marks the 11th anniversary of the largest volunteer initiative in Sint Maarten. The event is organized by Be The Change Foundation (BTC) and funded by the Oranje Fonds. It is the largest volunteer-driven initiative in the Dutch Kingdom, involving foundations, associations, schools, and NGOs in various community projects that require volunteer support.
As part of the 2025 registration period, the project management team is continuing the “Early DOETies” initiative. The first 10 fully registered organizations will receive special SXM DOET-branded goodies for their first 10 volunteers. The volunteer coaches and project management team have already reached out to numerous organizations and will continue to do so as the deadline approaches.
Organizations in need of assistance can contact the SXM DOET team via email at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or by phone at +1 (721) 581 6831. Volunteers interested in signing up for registered community projects can do so at www.sxmdoet.com starting in March 2025.
For more information or to stay in touch with regards to all things SXM DOET, follow us on Facebook.com/sxmdoet or Instagram at @sxm.doet.

Simpson Bay:--- The Kidz at Sea Foundation proudly announces the launch of the second session of its “Zero to Hero” Engineer Certification Course, providing six young individuals with a pathway to a career in the marine industry. This initiative, made possible by main sponsor Samenwerkende Fondsen, continues to equip local youth with essential skills and internationally recognized certifications.
This second session commenced last week with a balanced group of six students—three young men and three young women. The first phase introduced participants to Marine Careers and Communications, concluding in a mock interview assessment. Each student successfully passed the exam, demonstrating their readiness to enter the professional world.
Special thanks go to industry professionals Lela Simmonds (Port St. Maarten), Brian Deher (Dock Maarten), and Debby Lind Steyn (Aqua Mania Adventures) for generously volunteering their time to conduct the mock interviews, ensuring students gained real-world experience and valuable insights.
In the coming weeks, students will work towards earning the following industry-recognized certifications: STCW (Standards of Training, Certification & Watchkeeping), 15M Powerboat License, VHF Radio License and Basic Engineering Certification.
Upon completion, graduates will be job-ready for positions in the marine industry, with the necessary qualifications to work in many valuable positions in the sector including charter boats and mega yachts. The foundation encourages local businesses to support these skilled young professionals by providing them with employment opportunities that will help them gain hands-on experience and further develop their careers.
The “Zero to Hero” initiative is designed for young individuals aged 17 to 25 who may not have the financial means to obtain these certifications independently but possess a strong passion for the marine industry.
As a community-driven program, Kidz at Sea Foundation extends its appreciation to Maritime School of the West Indies, Magnis NV and Shortcut 2 Success, for their continued support. Their contributions help ensure young talent is identified, nurtured, and provided with a sustainable future in the marine industry.
Kidz at Sea will be running at least 2 additional Engineering sessions over the course of 2025, the next one tentatively scheduled for mid-March.
For more information about the “Zero to Hero” program or to submit an application, please contact: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or +1 (721) 580-5806.