Minister Plenipotentiary Gracita Arrindell with guests at the St. Maarten Day Event 2026, in The Hague (Photo M.G. Production).
THE HAGUE--Minister Plenipotentiary Gracita Arrindell has called on St. Maarteners living in the Netherlands, particularly students and young professionals, to share their knowledge, skills and expertise to support the country's development.
She made the appeal during the annual pre-St. Martin Day celebration organised by the Cabinet of the Minister Plenipotentiary on Sunday, November 8, 2026.
Addressing members of the St. Maarten diaspora, students, young professionals, families, friends and supporters, Arrindell described the community abroad as an important source of human capital for the country's future. “Our diaspora is not separate from the development of St. Maarten. Our diaspora is part of the human capital with which we must build our future,” Arrindell said.
She encouraged diaspora members to contribute by mentoring young people, sharing professional knowledge, transferring skills and supporting the development of local institutions.
Arrindell acknowledged that returning to St. Maarten permanently is not always possible for people who have established careers and families abroad. However, she stressed that contributing to the country's development does not necessarily require permanent relocation or financial contributions.
“St. Maarten needs you. We need your knowledge, your expertise, your creativity, your passion, and your fresh perspective,” she said.
The minister also highlighted the Cabinet's efforts to develop a diaspora database to identify St. Maarten students and professionals in the Netherlands and document their educational backgrounds and areas of expertise.
The database is intended to help connect qualified people abroad with institutions in St. Maarten seeking professional talent.
Arrindell disclosed that several organisations have expressed interest in connecting with young professionals through the Cabinet. These include government departments, government-owned companies, public sector institutions, the Common Court of Justice and representatives of the notarial profession.
The efforts are intended to strengthen connections between professionals in the diaspora and opportunities within institutions such as NV GEBE, Port St. Maarten and Princess Juliana International Airport.
The minister also reflected on St. Maarten's constitutional development since October 10, 2010, noting that although progress has been made, more work remains to strengthen institutions and advance national development.
She encouraged students and young professionals pursuing education and careers in the Netherlands to maintain their connection to home and consider how their achievements and expertise could benefit the island.
Young professional Iris Hakkens was also invited to address the gathering, reflecting the minister's commitment to recognising and encouraging young talent within the diaspora.
Arrindell expressed appreciation for the continued participation and support of the St. Maarten community in the Netherlands. She recalled that approximately 700 people attended the 2024 celebration and also acknowledged the support shown during the 2025 and 2026 events.
She paid tribute to individuals who had supported previous celebrations but have since passed away, recognising their contributions to the community and the preservation of St. Maarten's cultural heritage.
The minister also explained that the Cabinet's responsibilities extend beyond representing the Government of St. Maarten in the Kingdom of the Netherlands. It also serves as a link between the country and its citizens abroad by maintaining diaspora engagement, supporting students, providing access to information and services, and connecting people with opportunities at home. “Give back, share your knowledge, share your talent, stay connected and whenever possible come home and contribute,” Arrindell urged.
The celebration featured steelpan music by Darren, performances by the TMF Brassband and music by DJs Spy, Richie Styles and Biggerz, as well as Kyanni and LeyLey. King Beau Beau headlined the entertainment programme.
The event also included presentations involving WeConnect, Miss Dutch Caribbean and the St. Martin Song, as well as an awards presentation by the St. Maarten student organisation, SIU.
The annual gathering brought St. Maarteners and friends of the island together to celebrate their shared heritage and strengthen their connection to home.
The Cabinet of the Minister Plenipotentiary said it remains committed to strengthening ties with the diaspora and encouraging citizens abroad to take an active role in St. Maarten's continued development.
