From left: Christine Regis, Elvis Lewis, Jada Smith, Aisha-Jamila Mussington, Delano Samuel, Hubert Davis Anjeanee Mathew, Paul Leeflang, Senator John Hodge and Cheryl Dangleben-York.
WILLEMSTAD--JCI SXM A.C.T.I.O.N proudly represented St. Maarten at the 2025 JCI Dutch Caribbean National Convention in Curaçao October 16-18, a landmark gathering that brought together chapters from across the region to celebrate leadership, impact, and collaboration.
The seven-member delegation was joined by five special guests, including Jada Smith, the first runner-up of JCI SXM A.C.T.I.O.N’s 2025 Interscholastic Speech Competition, and her coach, Cheryl Dangleben-York of Caribbean Pearls Toastmasters Club. Participants from across the Dutch Caribbean engaged in strategic meetings, debate and public-speaking competitions, and immersive training sessions aimed at shaping the next generation of change-makers.
This year’s convention marked a historic milestone for JCI SXM A.C.T.I.O.N, which took home eight awards for its outstanding contributions to community development and youth empowerment. In addition, Anjeanee Mathew was elected 2026 JCI Dutch Caribbean National President, with Christine Regis joining her board as National Secretary, further solidifying St. Maarten’s leadership on the regional stage.
Among the chapter’s achievements was the award for Best Inter-Organization Collaboration Project, earned for the “Cover Your Lover” Safe Sex Campaign. The initiative united local partners including St. Maarten AIDS Foundation, Collective Prevention Services (CPS), Kalaboom, Dirty Dawgs, and various Carnival booth owners to promote sexual health awareness during Carnival 2025 in a dynamic and culturally resonant way.
JCI SXM A.C.T.I.O.N also excelled in public speaking competitions. Local Vice President Aisha-Jamila Mussington won the Public Speaking Award – Advanced Level, while newcomer Delano Samuel, who joined in January, received the Public Speaking Award – Rookie Level. The Youth Public Speaking Award went to the young delegate representing the Interscholastic Speech Competition, whose confident and thoughtful presentation impressed judges. Samuel was also named Most Outstanding New Member for his dedication and impact within his first year.
A highlight of the convention was the Ten Outstanding Young Persons (TOYP) Awards Ceremony, where three St. Maarteners were recognized for their remarkable achievements: Rolinda Carter for Medical Innovation, Louinel “Skelet” Telisma for Business and Economic Accomplishment, and Dannah Abraham for Personal Improvement and Development. Two recipients accepted their awards in person and delivered inspiring remarks, while the third was represented by the chapter’s Local President.
In reflecting on their success, the JCI SXM A.C.T.I.O.N delegation thanked their members, partners, and supporters, noting that the awards represent a shared commitment to service and progress. The team credited St. Maarten’s strong community spirit as the foundation of their achievements.
As JCI SXM A.C.T.I.O.N looks ahead to 2026, the chapter remains committed to fostering leadership, service, and unity, reaffirming that Opportunities Never End, and together, they are truly O.N.E.
For updates on JCI SXM A.C.T.I.O.N’s achievements and upcoming initiatives, follow the organization on Facebook and Instagram at
@JCISXMAction.
