[Entrepreneurs Impact 20] Journey Frans Eersteling

Childhood of Frans Eersteling Born on February 27, 1963, Frans Eersteling came into the world in Paramaribo. His mother is Albertina Eersteling, and his father is Siegfried Rellum. He is the eldest in a family of five younger brothers and one younger sister. Frans is married, has one daughter and is an actively professing Christian. These are some of the sayings he applies in his daily life:”Piano Piano,” which means ‘gradually’ or ‘little by little’. Another quote he often uses is: “There must be a difference,” which can be interpreted in various ways. ‘As an individual, you can choose to stand out or be unique in a positive way’. ‘Just because everyone does something doesn’t mean you have to do it too’. And finally, “Think before you act”; for him, it means ‘Don’t react, respond’. When responding instead of reacting, you take some time to think. Hence, you remove much of the emotion and replace it with more rationality. His hobbies include enjoying jazz music, reading, gardening, and exercising. Frans has a weekly routine where he exercises with his wife under guidance. They also try to walk about three times a week in the morning. Frans played basketball in the past for the ‘De Schakel’ team. As an active athlete in the past, he played for over 10 years and participated in competitions.  With ‘De Schakel’ youth team he became a Youth basketball champion. Over the years he played for a short period in the veterans’ team. From time to time, he shoots hoops with his daughter, who also plays basketball and volleyball. Frans attended primary school at the Richard Voulaire School in Paramaribo. During the intense strikes in 1973, when Suriname was still a colony of the Netherlands, the Richard Voulaire School caught fire. That year saw the largest wave of strikes, during which 13 union leaders who had called for a strike against the ‘Sedney cabinet’ policies were arrested. As a result of the fire, Frans had to attend school in the afternoon. He found this less pleasant because, while everyone else was going home, he had to get ready to go to school in the blazing sun. Fortunately, he only had to do this for a year. He then attended the Zuiderstad School for a year, followed by a return to the Richard Voulaire School. After finishing primary school, he continued his education at the Frowein School, a secondary school. In High school,  the Algemene Middelbare School (AMS), he had a life-changing and wonderful period. Frans made lifelong friends and had a whole lot of fun. One of the highlights was meeting people who also listened to and loved jazz, who drew him in. He continued studying History at the Instituut voor Opleiding van Leraren (IOL), the higher teacher training institute. He had completed all the exams and was about to start his thesis when he began working, which prevented him from finishing his studies. After taking a year off, he started the doctoral study in  Public Administration at the Anton de Kom University of Suriname, which he finished in the late nineties. He later completed his Master’s in Business Administration (MBA) at the FHR Lim A Po Institute for Higher Education (FHR). Frans had a unique upbringing. His mother was raised by his godmother, and as his mother’s first child, he benefited from his godmother’s upbringing. With her, he enjoyed much more freedom than in a typical Surinamese upbringing. His godmother had studied in the Netherlands in the 1950s and had very different ideas about parenting, which she applied to Frans. His childhood was very enjoyable, filled with freedom, self-discovery, sports, music, and more. At a young age, he was allowed to attend shows & concerts. He became a teenager during the disco era, so there was a lot of dancing and frequent visits to discos. His Impact It all started at the Ministry of the Internal Affairs with the Central Staff Office & Efficiency unit, an arm of the government responsible for job descriptions, job evaluations, etc., for two years. He then worked at the Ministry of Finance in the Postal Services, now known as Surpost, for another two years. In 1990, the journey of a lifetime began at Telesur, where he served for 33 years and 7 months, experiencing growth in various roles across different departments. Frans has now ushered in his retirement from Telesur. He started working in this company as an Information Analyst in the Automation Department. He then had the opportunity to move to a newly established Telecommunications and Marketing Department, which was initially focused on marketing activities. The department later transformed into the ‘Marketing’ and subsequently the ‘Business Development & Marketing’. When the company prepared for and entered into the era of competitiveness in telecommunication, a special project group was established. This ‘TeleG group’ played a crucial role in readying Telesur for stark competition. Being part of and co-managing this group with regard to mobile, marketing, branding activities and everything related to these, was an exciting, intensive learning experience.   Some time hereafter, Frans was appointed Manager of the Business Development & Marketing department. In 2015, after being removed from this position along with 14 other managers, he was transferred to the Strategy department. After several months he was appointed Policy Advisor to the CEO.. He was then requested to manage the transformed department of Business Development. One year prior to his retirement, Frans made his position as Manager of Business Development available to the management. He did this to allow someone else sufficient time for transitioning into this management responsibility and if necessary to receive adequate coaching. This purposefully stepping-back was looked upon in the company as very daring, but Frans was content that the department could continue its work without any management gap or problem. During what was meant to be his final working year in Telesur, he was appointed Policy Advisor of Innovation. Upon a fairly sudden departure of an employee, Telesur needed a manager for the

In today’s rapidly evolving business landscape, the digital industry stands at the forefront of innovation and transformation. The realm of digital business encompasses a diverse range of sectors, from e-commerce and digital marketing to cloud computing and artificial intelligence. As technology continues to advance at an unprecedented pace, here are some key insights shaping the digital business industry. 1. Customer-Centricity: The digital era is defined by a shift towards customer-centric business models. Companies are leveraging data analytics and AI to gain deep insights into customer behavior, preferences, and needs. This understanding enables personalized marketing strategies, tailored products, and seamless customer experiences across multiple touchpoints. 2. E-commerce Revolution: The rise of e-commerce has disrupted traditional retail paradigms. Online shopping platforms have democratized market access for businesses of all sizes, fostering a highly competitive environment. Moreover, the pandemic accelerated the adoption of e-commerce, with businesses investing in robust online infrastructures and last-mile delivery solutions. 3. Data-Driven Decision Making: Data has emerged as the new currency in the digital economy. Organizations are harnessing big data to drive strategic decision-making processes. Advanced analytics tools allow businesses to extract actionable insights, optimize operations, and forecast market trends with unprecedented accuracy. 4. Digital Transformation: The COVID-19 pandemic acted as a catalyst for digital transformation across industries. Businesses embraced remote work models, cloud technologies, and digital collaboration tools to ensure continuity. This shift underscored the importance of agility and resilience in the face of unforeseen disruptions. 5. Artificial Intelligence and Automation: AI and automation are redefining business operations. From chatbots handling customer inquiries to predictive analytics streamlining supply chain management, AI-powered solutions enhance efficiency and drive innovation. However, ethical considerations surrounding AI governance and transparency remain paramount. 6. Cybersecurity Imperatives: With increased digitalization comes heightened cybersecurity risks. Businesses must prioritize cybersecurity measures to safeguard sensitive data and protect against cyber threats. Proactive cybersecurity strategies are essential in preserving customer trust and ensuring regulatory compliance. 7. Sustainability and Responsibility: In the digital age, sustainability and corporate responsibility are integral to long-term success. Consumers expect businesses to operate ethically, minimize environmental footprints, and champion social causes. Sustainable practices not only enhance brand reputation but also drive innovation and cost savings. 8. Agile Business Models: Agile methodologies are reshaping business frameworks. Start-ups and established enterprises alike are embracing agile principles to adapt quickly to market changes, iterate products based on feedback, and foster a culture of continuous improvement. 9. Collaborative Ecosystems: The digital economy thrives on collaboration and partnerships. Open innovation ecosystems enable businesses to leverage external expertise, access niche markets, and co-create value with stakeholders. 10. Regulatory Landscape: The digital business industry operates within a complex regulatory environment. Evolving data protection laws, antitrust regulations, and taxation policies pose challenges for businesses navigating global markets. In conclusion, the digital business industry is a dynamic landscape shaped by innovation, disruption, and continuous adaptation. Success hinges on embracing technological advancements, prioritizing customer-centricity, fostering agility, and upholding ethical standards. By leveraging these insights, businesses can harness the full potential of the digital age and chart a path towards sustainable growth and competitiveness.

Childhood of Gail Eijk “Today I am not the person I was yesterday, nor am I the person I will be tomorrow.” Gail Eijk, a mother, grandmother, sister, and author. Born on March 5, 1972, to Eleonora Dragman and Ivan Joemankhan. Gail enjoys a fulfilling life surrounded by her family, including her four cherished grandchildren. She has two brothers and a sister and enjoys hobbies such as exercising in the gym, which has almost become an addiction, she also loves writing poems, reflections, and songs, and enjoys engaging in deep conversations to learn from others, cooking, baking, and connecting with people. Gail is the proud author of two books, “Tranen voor mijn Horizon” and “Splinters op mijn Pad”. Gail lives by inspiring quotes: “Today I am not the person I was yesterday, nor am I the person I will be tomorrow.” “I seize the day, for tomorrow I do not know who I will be, every change can transform you.” Gail’s journey has been anything but easy. She faced a challenging childhood, losing her mother early and moving to Suriname with her brothers, where they endured abuse and hardship. She was quite close to one of her brothers, and she laments that their relationship has changed over the past two years. Despite this, she remains resilient, recognizing the strength she has gained from her experiences. Gail attended Shri Vishnu School, Elizabeth 1, and Christus Koning Mulo school, but her education was cut short in the second year of MULO. She then found herself on the streets, fighting to survive through difficult times. However, her love for reading helped her understand and adapt quickly. Gail has continued to grow and develop herself by taking courses and gaining knowledge whenever possible. Gail Eijk’s story is one of perseverance, continuous learning, and transformation. She embraces each day with the understanding that who she is today is different from who she was yesterday and who she will become tomorrow.   Her Impact Gail found herself on the streets at a very young age and had to leave school to take care of herself and her brother. As a woman at that time, it was easier to find work without a diploma than it was for men. At just 16 years old, she ensured her brother could attend school, providing everything he needed. She worked in various fields to make ends meet. As she started in the hospitality industry, working in a range of bars from modest to upscale. She even hauled cows on her shoulders in a butcher shop and cleaned houses. Gail was never afraid of hard work and always found honest ways to earn money to support herself and her brother. Later, she continued working in butcheries and, in 2005, she joined Apintie, a television & radio station where she worked for 13 years. She then moved to De Surinaamse Televisie Stichting (STVS), where she enjoyed her job but felt it wasn’t fulfilling her purpose. Afterward, she received an offer from SUN Web TV, which she helped establish. Today, she serves as one of the managers at SUN Web TV. Gail believes that everything happens for a reason. Perhaps her journey was meant to be this way so she could share her story and inspire others, demonstrating that no matter what happens, she remains steadfast. Her experiences have not deterred her from her path. Gail doesn’t consider herself a role model and doesn’t aspire to be one because she believes everyone must learn from their own experiences and strive to be better than they were yesterday. While she can’t control if others put her on a pedestal, she frequently shares her experiences with others. After her first book was published, a group of university students asked to use her story for their graduation project due to the childhood abuse and other challenges she faced, as detailed in her book.   Growth through Experience I’m rebellious Back in the day, people had a much more rigid mindset. Women were often viewed as mere objects of desire, and if a woman was seen at a bar, she was quickly judged as promiscuous. Despite these challenges, she managed to stand out and avoid these labels thanks to her strong personality and willpower. Her rebellious nature was her secret to success, even if she didn’t realize it at the time. She would deliberately go against the grain. If people wanted to talk about her, she’d give them even more to talk about. She had her own will, vision, and perspective on things, and as she grew more structured in her approach, she managed to secure the positions she wanted, wherever she went. Highlights Winning the Suriname Popular Song Festival (Suripop XV) in 2008 with the winning composition ‘Ala Ogri e tyar’ wan bung’, sung by Bryan Muntslag, and publishing her first book, “Tranen voor mijn Horizon.” As a young girl, she declared she would one day win Suripop and write a book, and she made it happen. It’s inspiring to see her fulfill her own promises. Gail further states, “You’re a failure if you make a promise to yourself and can’t keep it. “Her goal with her books is primarily to inspire young people. Everyone faces challenges, and everyone deals with them differently. It’s always uplifting when you can inspire others with your story. No matter what situation you’re in, don’t underestimate the impact of inspiration. This is especially evident from the responses she has received for her new book. Every mistake is a lesson, but you must be able to learn from it. You are only a winner if you are not afraid to lose.   Closing Remarks from Gail When you want to take a step forward, you have to go for it wholeheartedly. You’re only a winner when you’re not afraid to lose. Sometimes, losing can be your greatest gain. The lessons learned are invaluable for your future endeavors. When you get an inspiration, and it feels right, ask yourself: What do

In the realm of business, clarity of purpose is the bedrock upon which successful ventures are built. Every entrepreneur embarking on a new venture or seasoned professional seeking growth understands the importance of defining a clear mission and vision for their business. Let’s delve deeper into why this step is crucial and how it impacts the trajectory of your enterprise. Why Define Your Purpose? Imagine starting a journey without knowing your destination. That’s what operating a business without a defined purpose feels like—directionless and uncertain. Your business purpose encapsulates the fundamental “why” behind your endeavors. It answers pivotal questions such as: – Why does your business exist? – What problems are you solving? – What values and principles guide your decisions? Motivating Your Team A strong sense of purpose isn’t just a statement on paper; it’s a rallying point for your team. When your employees understand and resonate with the purpose of your business, it ignites passion and commitment. People want to be part of something meaningful and impactful. Your purpose becomes the North Star that aligns everyone towards a common goal, fostering a sense of belonging and shared vision. Resonating with Customers and Investors Beyond motivating your internal team, a well-defined purpose resonates powerfully with external stakeholders—your customers and investors. In an increasingly competitive marketplace, consumers gravitate towards brands that stand for something beyond just profits. A clear purpose communicates authenticity and builds trust. Customers are more likely to engage with businesses that share their values and demonstrate a commitment to making a positive difference. Investors, too, are attracted to businesses with a compelling purpose. They seek enterprises that are not only financially viable but also have a meaningful impact on society. A strong purpose signals long-term sustainability and potential growth opportunities, making your business an attractive investment prospect. Crafting Your Mission and Vision Statements Crafting your mission and vision statements is an exercise in introspection and strategic planning. Your mission statement should succinctly articulate the core purpose of your business—its reason for existence. It should be specific, actionable, and inspiring. On the other hand, your vision statement paints a picture of the future you aspire to create. It’s a bold declaration of your aspirations and goals. When drafting these statements, involve your team. Seek input from stakeholders to ensure inclusivity and alignment. In Conclusion Defining your business purpose is not just a box to check; it’s a transformative exercise that sets the stage for success. It’s about clarifying your identity, values, and aspirations. When your purpose is clear and compelling, it becomes a guiding force that shapes decisions, inspires action, and ultimately drives sustainable growth. So, take the time to define your purpose—it’s the first step towards building a purpose-driven business that leaves a lasting impact on the world.

Childhood of Desmond Croker Desmond Olsen Croker was born on September 16, 1979, in Georgetown, Guyana, to Desmond and Annie Croker. Raised in a small housing community in Georgetown, he is the eldest of three brothers and one sister. Growing up in a one-parent household with financial challenges, Desmond and his siblings faced a tough upbringing. His father, a soldier, was often away, and his mother, a domestic worker, struggled to maintain stable employment due to health issues. Desmond attended Southern Elementary School and South Georgetown Secondary School. There was a period when Desmond, his mother, and siblings had to relocate to Essequibo for a year. Despite excelling academically, financial constraints led Desmond to leave school at the age of 14. He began working as a groundsman at a private hospital in Georgetown, foregoing his desire to complete high school. Despite the strict upbringing that limited social interactions with neighbors, Desmond and his siblings developed a strong bond that persists even though they are now living overseas. They make a conscious effort to meet monthly, demonstrating their close-knit relationship. Desmond, who has been married three times, has a daughter from his first marriage. Desmond’s professional journey began as a dropout working at the same hospital where he started as a groundsman. He took on various jobs, including working as a printer. Five years after leaving the hospital, his sister encouraged him to take the entrance test for a Nurse Aide Program. To his surprise, his previous application was still valid, leading him to make the life-changing decision to pursue nursing despite the significant pay cut. At the printery he was making about $3500 fortnight, that was $7000,- a month. If he decided to start the Nursery training, he would get a stipend of $1200 per month. After considerations he made his decision and started with the training. He and his sister successfully completed the training and started working as Nursing Assistants at the hospital. They spent three years there. His mother always instilled the value of education, so one day he was approached by a nurse if he wanted to do nursing During nursing school, Desmond had to work security at night to support his family. Balancing his studies, personal life, and a one-income household proved challenging. After initially failing the final exam, he took a break from his marriage to focus on completing the nursing program, eventually succeeding in his second attempt. Desmond then worked as a nurse in various departments at Georgetown Hospital for five years while pursuing his bachelor’s degree in nursing, the first of its kind at the University of Guyana. After completing his degree, Desmond became a nursing lecturer at the Georgetown School of Nursing. A chance opportunity in Jamaica prompted him to move there, where he worked at a community college and completed his Diabetes Educator education. His time in Jamaica was marked by personal loss, as his Mother passed away from diabetic problems.  After spending 2 years in Kingston, Jamaica, Desmond applied in Trinidad and got his registration. He wanted to be close to his daughter, since it was a 1 hour flight to Guyana. Desmond worked at the nursing college in Trinidad for 5 years.  Desmond later moved to Trinidad, where he worked at a nursing college for five years. In 2008, an opportunity arose for him to undergo Diabetes Education training,  where he finally got the chance to learn more about what happened with his mother. Even Though he had over 10 years experience as a nurse, a lot of things he learned in the training were new to him. That is when and where he found his passion and decided to do this for the rest of his year. During training for chronic diseases, he developed a successful Diabetes Self-Management Education program. His Impact From a young age, he and his siblings were aware of their mother’s frail health, witnessing her resilient recoveries after each setback. However, a tragic day arrived when she succumbed to her condition, leaving an indelible impact on Desmond. Eager to honor his mother’s memory, he channeled his passion for Diabetes Education into a meaningful initiative. This vision led to the establishment of AMCEC (Annie’s Memorial Education Centre) in Trinidad. Originally named in memory of his mother, the business faced challenges securing its domain name. Consequently, it evolved into Annie’s Chronic Diseases and Education Centre, abbreviated as AMCEC. Today, it operates under the official name AMCEC Health. AMCEC Health’s mission is to empower individuals to take proactive steps towards fostering their own health. Desmond recognizes the pressing health challenges faced by the Caribbean community, ranking second globally in chronic disease prevalence. Particularly, the region holds the unfortunate distinction of leading the world in health expenditure for diabetes. Growth through experience AMCEC faces the difficulty of starting conversations regarding diabetes education. Typically, individuals only engage in dialogue when complications have already arisen, and it is often too late. However, once people engage with and undergo diabetes education, their gratitude and enthusiasm become evident, yet usually after experiencing the effects. Another hurdle lies in reaching and connecting with the target audience—those in genuine need of these services and willing to invest in them. Over the years, Desmond has steadily gained recognition as the go-to person on diabetes. The challenge lies in persuading individuals to invest in the valuable offerings provided by AMCEC, as their initial expectations tend to be shallow. Closing Remarks from Desmond Know why you do what you do. You have to have the goal in mind that will propel you forward in spite of all the challenges. Search for the greater and sustainable impact you can and will create with all you do. In order to achieve your goal it requires overcoming obstacles. But it is about being persistent and persistent in whatever you set yourself to do. To fellow entrepreneurs… it will be a tough challenge, but seek counsel wherever you can get it, seek for collaboration from businesses that can benefit yours.

Childhood of Erika van der Mark Born on the ‘Friendly Island’ of St. Maarten in 1984, Erika van der Mark’s life journey has been a colorful tapestry of cultural diversity, dance, resilience, and self-discovery. From being a dynamic and rebellious teenager; to facing the challenges of adapting to a new life in Suriname, Erika’s story takes an unexpected turn, leading her to a profound rebirth and the creation of Journey to Horizon—a platform dedicated to helping others embark on their transformative journeys. Growing up in a family with roots in Colombia, Curacao, and St. Maarten, Erika was able to observe and learn about diversity. As the eldest child, her upbringing was also filled with responsibilities for her younger siblings. She was both warm and rebellious; and thrived in her dual nature. Erika embraced her spontaneous energy through dance performances. This was initially as a hobby in Interscholastic competitions and later as a professional dancer, performing with the Calypso King of St. Maarten; King Beau Beau. At 17, Erika left for the Netherlands to pursue Hotel Management. Little did she know that her life would take another exciting turn when she met (at the age of 18), the now ‘father of her children’. A Surinamese guy pursuing Mechanical Engineering. She enjoyed her college years in different ways. Erika continued her passion for dance, working for the well-known “Rock and Vibes” Music production company founded by Mr. Rude Fleming and their artist “Ziggy Recado”. It was the highlight of their college experience as their group performed throughout the Netherlands opening shows for different renowned artists. After completing her studies, and being devoted to her relationship; there was a choice to be made between returning to St. Maarten or settling in Suriname. The choice, though not easy; was Suriname and it became her new home. Coming to Suriname marked a noticeable contrast to her experiences in St. Maarten & Holland. In some ways, there was a “social shock”. Her friendly and open nature sometimes clashed with the somewhat reserved behavior/lifestyle of particular groups within Surinamese society. For her, learning to adjust to societal expectations transformed her extroverted personality. Erika’s career started off at N.V. Consolidated Industries Corporation, where she organically grew, holding at last, the position of Logistics Manager. When deciding to go for her second child, she chose to become a stay-at-home mom, dedicating more time to her “motherhood” journey. This transition, while initially fulfilling, eventually led to a disbalance, causing a feeling of emptiness, frustration, and a strained marriage, ultimately resulting in divorce. The post-divorce period became a spiritual journey for Erika. Despite feeling alone, insecure, and vulnerable, she also experienced a beautiful awakening; realizing the importance of having a ‘TruthversationTM’ with herself. This experience instinctively paved the way for her in different ways. She discovered what self-fulfillment felt like and this led her to support others. Erika’s rebirth marked the beginning of Journey to Horizon. Inspired by her experiences, Erika founded Journey to Horizon, which focuses on creating & contributing to various environments, fostering positive change. Throughout the years Erika has been a part of and carried out workshops, courses, panel discussions, and attended summits in Suriname and the Dutch Caribbean. In short, the metaphorical horizon represents the inner harmony and fulfillment awaiting those willing to embark on this transformative journey. Erika van der Mark’s journey from the lively shores of St. Maarten to the serene horizons of self-discovery in Suriname is a testament to resilience, personal growth, and the power of embracing change. Through Journey to Horizon, Erika is not only sharing her story but empowering others to navigate their unique paths, fostering a community of authenticity, and promoting the journey towards finding the beauty within. Her Impact Journey to Horizon focuses on developing all types of relationships; particularly when clients come as couples or families. The program facilitates a deeper understanding among participants, teaching them how to listen, observe, and accept each other in ways that enhance togetherness, love, happiness, unity, and harmony. In today’s society, the prevailing attitude often centers around self-interest. People prioritize personal gain leading to a decline in genuine human connections. As individuals become absorbed in their own needs; egos tend to take the front seat. Recognizing that fundamental human needs include love, connection, and acceptance, Journey to Horizon seeks to address the challenges posed by a society that tends to overlook these essentials. The concept of ‘TruthversationTM’ is integral to the program’s philosophy. It emphasizes the importance of open and honest communication as a way of meeting the basic needs of individuals. Without such deep, truthful conversations, society risks neglecting these fundamental requirements, leading individuals to navigate experiences without clear understanding. This lack of clarity can result in individuals becoming hardened, deviating from their authentic selves, and further hindering the development of meaningful connections. In essence, Journey to Horizon’s endeavors are to counteract the prevailing harmful societal trend; by promoting a deeper understanding of the fundamental human needs and nurturing authentic connections. Their approach is to strengthen relationships by developing better understanding and encouraging more Truthversations. Their “Rocky Road to Self-Fulfillment” program aims to guide individuals toward a more harmonious and fulfilling way of living. Growth through experience Discovering “self-love”, was a revelation for Erika, a realization that unfolded during her participation in a Vipassana Ten-Day Silent Meditation retreat. This unique retreat was designed to cultivate love and kindness towards oneself. Participants were instructed to sit, reflect, and direct feelings of kindness inward. However, Erika encountered challenges in this process, facing numerous restarts due to her struggle to genuinely feel love for herself. While intellectually acknowledging self-love, her heart remained a battleground where self-criticism prevailed. The meditation became a transformative practice, unveiling the profound truth that self-love is not an effortless journey. For Erika, it was a continuous effort to stand by herself, especially during the most challenging moments. This experience taught her that authentic self-love requires dedicated practice, urging individuals to show up for themselves even when faced with difficulties. Closing

Childhood of Rogier Born on August 1, 1991, to Ingrid Jadi and Ramon Mahangi, Rogier’s family background is rooted in a blend of professional and entrepreneurial experiences. His father, Ramon Mahangi, served at Stichting Machinale Landbouw (SML) in charge of exports, While Ingrid, his mother, focused on being a full-time mother after first pursuing entrepreneurship. In 2015, Rogier tied the knot with his business partner, Vanessa Souda. Their connection traces back to their time at the MULO school, and for over 17 years, they have navigated life together, evolving from friends to life and business partners. Together, they have settled life’s journey, upgrading from friends to business partners. This love story has endured successes and challenges, evolving from youth to maturity and from boyfriend and girlfriend to husband and wife. Raising a daughter, they enjoy the joys of Parenting together. Rogier and Vanessa are an example of a successful relationship, both personally and professionally, breaking the stereotype that couples cannot manage a successful business together. Rogier was born and raised in Tammenga, a neigbourhood in the capital of Suriname. He understands the value of having strong cultural roots. Apart from their joint commercial ventures. For Rogier, understanding one’s origins is crucial, forming an integral part of one’s identity. He believes that as you grow, you discover there is more to life beyond the initial religious teachings received at home. Growing a broader perspective becomes essential. Guided by his cultural background, Rogier incorporates daily quotes into his life philosophy. One such phrase is “Esi fu sjie, ma no esi fu piki,” translating to ‘observe before making a statement or taking actions.” Another principle he lives by is “A ati bron fu tide, leb’en gi tamara,” encouraging the practice of letting emotions settle before responding calmly at a later time. Recognizing that impulsive actions may result from stronger emotions, Rogier emphasizes the importance of a measured approach. Furthermore, his mantra “Te y’e nyang, nyang naga trawan” reinforces the idea of sharing, emphasizing the collective nature of community and cooperation. These principles, deeply rooted in Rogier’s upbringing and experiences, shape his approach to life and guide his interactions with the world. Growing up in Tammenga, Rogier’s childhood was a mix of wonder and joy. In a bustling family of three brothers and one sister, he delighted in the connection, surrounded by the hustle and bustle of business-minded siblings. With their strong bond, they still support each other and fill the gaps where necessary. His early years were filled with excitement through family vacations, energetic games with neighbors, and more. Rogier’s educational journey started in kindergarten at the Prakiki School, went to primary school at Polanenschool, and finished with MULO at Christus Koning School. As he progressed through his schooling, he attended the Algemene Middelbare School (AMS) for his college education before continuing his studies at the IBW University of Applied Sciences to earn an HBO degree. Lastly, at the AKAMA University, he obtained his Bachelor of Science in International Business. From Superhero to Human Rogier once perceived his parents, particularly his father, as superheroes. However, at the tender age of 16, life dealt him a transformative blow when his father suffered a stroke. Witnessing his idol’s vulnerability, Rogier confronted the harsh reality that even superheroes had flaws. This challenging period deepened the bond between father and son, and Rogier took on the joint role of caregiver. In the final months leading up to his father’s passing, they had heartfelt father-son moments together, intense. Despite the pain of loss, Rogier found comfort, knowing his father was finally free from suffering. The everlasting spirit and determination exhibited by his father, Ramon Mahangi, left an enduring impact. Even on his deathbed, Ramon blessed Rogier to forge ahead, carrying invaluable lessons and guidance into every aspect of his life. Rogier’s entrepreneurial spirit flourished from his school days. Known for his trademark of always smelling good, he leveraged this quality to kickstart his business, initially selling perfumes and DVDs while still in school. After A period of time in government service, Rogier realized he had reached his ceiling. In collaboration with his partner, Vanessa Mahangi,  they ventured into the import/export of cosmetics, eventually establishing their own cosmetic company in 2015. Their enterprise, Scents of Essence (SoE), extended to diverse branches, including an online marketing platform and a Ritual Shop in Connection Mall. Alongside these ventures, Rogier and his partner delved into the car rental business in 2017, starting with one car and swiftly expanding to three within a few months. The Car Rental operation, growing both locally and internationally, extended its reach to Curaçao, Guyana, and Barbados. Rogier became a shareholder in his brother’s company “AIM Industrial Solutions” focused on construction and electrical installations, later rebranded as Preconsu, a construction company specializing in prefab constructions, renewable energy, and sustainable living. Expanding its wings internationally, Preconsu is making its mark in countries like Guyana and Barbados. Driven by his passion for cars, Rogier ventured into car rentals, while the construction company, fueled by a response to demand, aims to address housing shortages in Suriname. With a focus on providing sustainable homes for young professionals, Preconsu has evolved to meet the needs of entrepreneurs seeking office spaces, catering to those facing challenges of land ownership or insufficient capital. His Impact The first thing to take into consideration before taking action is the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). For Preconsu, a project goes beyond the typical frameworks of a building company; it is also a Green Investment Foundation dedicated to balancing environmental and human environments. Preconsu is a construction maze that creates a sustainable symphony rather than just laying bricks and beams. Its buildings are adorned with solar panels, which serve as both a stylish accent and an effective means of reducing domestic energy usage. Preconsu operates with a thoughtful knowledge that, in the absence of sustainable steps, we run the risk of permanent consequences due to the rising threat of global warming. As such, each building project is like an

Childhood of Romano Morsen On March 5, 1990, in Nieuw Nickerie, Suriname the great and passionate educator Romano Raj Morsen was born.. His parents are Seeta Bagwan and Guno Morsen. Mother Seeta Bagwan is originally from Guyana and has been living in Suriname for over 50 years. Romano is the youngest of four siblings, with one sister and three brothers. He grew up in a single-parent family, as his parents separated when he was 3 years old. Due to the separation, Seeta Bagwan had to work at 3 to 4 different places as a single mother to provide for her four children. Despite the challenges of providing for her children, she always instilled the value of “I may not have material wealth to give you, but what I can provide is a good education and love.” Romano attended the Public Elementary School, completed the first three years of MULO, and completed the VWO in Nickerie with good admission results. At the age of 18, he moved to Paramaribo. The initial months in Paramaribo were challenging as he left his mother after many years and had to adapt to a new and larger environment. In Paramaribo, he lived with his brothers who had moved there earlier. Romano always used his mother’s words as a life motto and applied them to achieve everything he desired. His study period was relatively smooth, consistently excelled in his academic results, which he considered a pattern of striving for excellence. He proudly completed his Master’s degree with a grade of 9. Upon arriving in Paramaribo, Romano started working in a call center. His routine for about a year looked as follows: 03:00 AM – Wake up 04:00 AM – 07:45 AM – Morning shift 08:00 AM – 01:30 PM – Bachelor study 02:00 PM – 05:30 PM – Afternoon shift 06:00 PM – 10:00 PM – Administrative work at the gym In his second year, he joined the educational team of Vocational Education at the Ministry of Education, Science, and Culture. He graduated from his Bachelor’s study at the age of 21 and began his teaching career, focusing on pedagogy for School Media Library staff. Romano has now been in the field of education for over 12 years. Determination and Perseverance In his younger years, Romano witnessed his mother being a victim of domestic violence. At the age of three, Seeta fled with her four children from their home. Even as a young boy, Romano understood that the environment he grew up in was not healthy. He knew that he didn’t want his children to experience such a life. So, he turned the negative experiences into life lessons, avoiding similar situations with the support of his mother, brothers, and sister. The determination of his mother made Romano realize that regardless of one’s background and beliefs in destiny, anything is achievable. His mother’s resilience resulted in her owning a house today and being able to travel at least once or twice a year. They never forget where they came from. Determination, perseverance, and love for each other ensured that all siblings were supportive and could achieve what they could afford today. Romano always says to everyone who crosses his path: “Your life, your future, and destiny are in your mind, and as an individual, you can create them”. His Impact At the age of 18, Romano Morsen began his Bachelor’s degree. Over the years, Romano has contributed to numerous developments within the field of education. His professional journey started when, as a student, he became a member of the educational team at the Ministry of Education. Just before turning 22, he started his career as a pedagogy and didactics lecturer for the School Media Library staff training program. Shortly after, he joined the COVAB Nursing College as a quality assurance staff member and, within a few months, collaborated with the Director to establish processes and measurement instruments. Due to his proactive approach, Romano became the Head Coordinator of Quality Assurance at COVAB in less than a year, contributing to the ISO certification of the institution. After two years, the position of Education Manager became available at the Nursing College, and without hesitation, he was appointed to oversee 16 programs, including 3 bachelor’s and 13 post-basic programs. As a member of the management team, Romano played a vital role in further positioning COVAB in the Surinamese community, solidifying its indispensable status. Notably, Romano was the only educational expert within the COVAB team. During his tenure as Education Manager, he also completed his Master’s degree at Anton de Kom University. Romano, in his capacity as Education Manager, was responsible for accrediting the programs. The Director of COVAB acknowledged Romano’s efforts in giving COVAB the identity of an educational institution. After some time, Romano received an offer from the University of Suriname. Following discussions with COVAB’s board, he commenced part-time teaching in Education at the University. As time passed, Romano faced a challenging decision: leaving COVAB to dedicate himself full-time to the University. Pursuing an academic career and transforming education had always been his dream. In his first year of full-time commitment, he became the Program Coordinator for the Bachelor’s and Master’s programs in Educational Sciences and Education. Within a year, he was responsible for accreditation. Simultaneously, Romano taught for approximately ten years at the Teachers Training Vocational Education (LOBO), covering subjects such as Psychology, Didactics, Pedagogy, Personal Development, and Coaching. He served as a thesis supervisor and co-evaluator. In the last three years at LOBO, he was also the Program Coordinator for the Education program. Romano taught for over seven years at the Teachers Training Institute (IOL), offering courses like Methods and Techniques, Action Research, and Pedagogy for the Pedagogy and Professional Development programs. He mentored numerous students with their thesis projects at IOL. He served as the Secretary of the Examination and Test Committee at both PTC and the International School for Business in Suriname for three and four years, respectively. Additionally, Romano provided consultancy services to

Childhood of Quemara Louisville Quemara Ramona Louisville was born on December 6, 1992, in Paramaribo, Suriname. She is the eldest child of her mother, Marcia Walden, and the only child of her father, Ramon Louisville. After being the only child for over 9 years and receiving all the attention and energy from her parents, Quemara had to adjust to having two younger sisters in the house. Describing herself as a calm young woman dedicated to love, helpfulness, and positivity, Quemara believes in finding something positive in everything one does. These values are not only imparted to her two children but to everyone she encounters in daily life, be it her sisters, family, colleagues, or students. Her childhood and adolescence were enjoyable for Quemara. She experienced a pleasant upbringing, playing on the streets with friends, and exploring her creativity. Despite a strict upbringing, Quemara had all her needs met, leading her to appreciate things from a young age. In her youth, she engaged in various sports, including Kung Fu lessons with her father and badminton at SCVU. Her father, a lifelong sportsman and retired FIFA referee, tried to interest her in the soccer world, even buying her soccer shoes as gifts. However, soccer did not resonate with Quemara, and she did not pursue a career as an arbiter. Having another child in the house after 9 years was an adjustment for Quemara. Despite initial challenges, she embraced her role with love and responsibility, vowing to support her sisters always. Quemara took the responsibility to simplify study materials for her sisters, so it would be less difficult for them to go through the educational journey, fostering a strong and supportive bond. Their agreement for life is to handle minor disagreements without escalating into major conflicts. As a dedicated student, Quemara did well in school and is currently in the final phase of the Bachelor of Business Administration program at Hogeschool ABC. Due to her competencies, she has been admitted to the Master’s Program in Accounting at FHR program through her work. Despite her calm attitude and academic focus, she was adopted by different peer groups in each class, keeping up a high standard of performance and resisting peer pressure. As the supportive individual that she is, she invested her afternoons and Saturdays supporting and guiding fellow students in subjects where they needed assistance, contributing to collective success in the final year exams. Her Impact From her teenage years, Quemara harbored the idea of becoming an entrepreneur, though she hadn’t yet determined the specific field. At the age of 15, she landed her most memorable summer job, archiving old videos and photos in the administration department. However, her creative and dynamic spirit quickly revealed that these tasks were not her calling. The television department staff noticed the discomfort and swiftly took action. Quemara was introduced to recording and editing tasks, leading her to work at Apintie for over 6 years. Later, she offered her services as a freelancer and gained additional expertise while employed at Intersnap, contributing to many enjoyable times and productions. Quemara started working at a young age, despite her father’s initial disapproval of a steady job. Eventually, she balanced work and studies, exploring various positions. The entrepreneurial spirit persisted, with Quemara constantly seeking ways to make her work her own and exploring freelancing possibilities. Later, Quemara and her mother and sisters started baking together. Observing her mother’s catering business provided insight into operations and planning, further fueling her entrepreneurial aspirations. Eventually, she recognized a demand for assistance with schoolwork and decided to turn it into a business after observing diverse enterprises. Thus, she began helping people at their homes for a small fee, leading to the conceptualization of Upward Institute. Upward Institute was officially launched on December 17, 2022. Offering academic support at all levels, it actively guides and assists students with their studies. Additionally, the institute provides courses on various subjects such as Presentation Techniques, Taxes, Professional Letters, Communication Skills, and more. The teachers, hailing from diverse fields, share their knowledge and skills with the people of Suriname. Upward Institute aims to make a positive impact on the growth and progress of mainly young Surinamese individuals, emphasizing not only education but also social and creative aspects through various organized activities. Quemara is not only the co-founder of Upward Institute but also the founder of KayJi Business Cleaning & Professional Services. Established on December 13, 2023, this cleaning company goes beyond cleaning by incorporating an academy, enabling industry job seekers to acquire skills that go beyond a lifetime of being a cleaner. In addition to her ventures, Quemara has a passion for design. She has designed reports, calendars, certificates, and other documents for various schools and businesses, leading to the creation of Impulse Communication & Marketing Hub. The company fosters communication and collaborations between businesses. Upward Institute is located at Alexander Samuelsstraat 36a in Paramaribo North. Growth through experience “Wang Ogri e Tjar Wang Bung.” As a budding entrepreneur, your life undergoes a transformation in the sense that you have to set things in motion and invest a considerable amount of time in your business, especially if you have a family and a job. Balancing all these aspects can be challenging. Sacrifices must be made, making it crucial for effective communication among all parties involved. Due to the busy nature of various enterprises, Quemara’s relationship suffered, eventually leading to its breakdown. Quemara channels negative thoughts and energy, particularly during stressful times and challenges, into positive energy, investing it in keeping her businesses running. In stressful situations, Quemara strives to focus on positive aspects to attract positivity. This approach has allowed her to dedicate more time and energy to her business, realizing the set goals that will offer Quemara and her children a promising future. Upward Institute has also experienced growth in the business. The number of students has increased from 6 to 20, availing themselves of Upward Institute’s services regularly. Subsequently, there was further growth from 20 to 35

Childhood of Dirk Currie “It’s going great!” is always the answer you can expect when you ask the son of the now 96-year-old Hetty Currie-Henar and the late Richard Louis Currie how he is doing. ‘I always express how I wish to feel’. Dirk was born on October 26, 1958, and is the youngest of a family of 5. He has 4 brothers and 1 sister. He spent his childhood and youth at the Lousielaan in Combe (Suriname). The Family man and proud father of Giano and Tirzah Currie is a Lifelong learner, he is addicted to reading, loves nature, and also likes to do challenging things. Dirk has played a lot of sports in his life; he has practiced the following branches of sports: swimming, volleyball, and judo. The pillars of his life are faith and spirituality. The connection between the two is that where the “why questions” cannot be answered when we need to hold onto our faith and spirituality contributes to how to deal with impactful events in life. For Dirk, the three most important core values in life are Freedom, Respect, and Justice. By continuing to study and creating opportunities to be broadly employable, Dirk has fulfilled the core value of freedom. He has respect for every person and nature. He also absolutely cannot stand injustice. Dirk does not come from a rich family and did not receive pocket money, but always wanted to create his freedom. That’s why, as an 11-year-old boy, he started working at a local food shop by peeling potatoes. He worked there every Friday afternoon and evening, every Saturday, and every holiday for about 6 years. Naturally, he also experienced growth opportunities there and worked in various departments such as warehouse, server, behind the cash register, and administration. In the event of the director’s absence, Dirk was responsible for closing the shop and ensuring the safe storage of the money in the safe. As a result, Dirk has learned to work, earn his own money, and learn the value of money. What it is like to earn money yourself and the heavy consideration of when to spend it. By working and earning his own money, he was able to buy his first moped, which unfortunately he was only able to ride once because it was stolen. Luckily he can laugh about it now. But he certainly learned lessons from it. At the age of 17,  Dirk obtained his swimming instructor diploma, after which he and his brother provided swimming lessons at Swimming School Currie. Driven by the core value of freedom, Dirk started living independently. As a student of Doctoral Business Economics, Dirk, together with several others, had the opportunity to work at the Ministry of Finance, where a lecturer was in charge at the time. In January 1981 he joined the Ministry of Finance in the Economic Affairs department, where he worked for 6 years. In his senior year, he was in charge. In the last year, he was offered an opportunity to work at Telesur. His Impact After serving approximately 6 years at the Ministry of Finance, and overcoming challenges to work at the World Bank, Dirk, as an ambitious young gentleman, joined Telesur on January 1, 1987 as head of the Internal Control department. In that company, Dirk experienced numerous highlights and has been responsible for the tremendous growth of the Telecommunication Company of Suriname. He has also held various positions including coordinator directorate financial and economic affairs and appointed deputy director responsible for financial and economic affairs for 15 years. The urge to grow has always remained intending to be able to exert its influence among a large group of people. In 2005 he was appointed Acting Director and then formally Director of Telesur in May 2006. This lasted until 2015. The final process at Telesur did not go as he had wished, still, Dirk is thankful for the immense growth he led the company through over the years. While Dirk worked at Telesur, he also contributed to other companies as a supervisory director. He received full support from the organizations because of the trust they have in him. In addition to professional work, Dirk is also affiliated with various organizations where he contributes in his way to the development of people’s well-being. For example, he is a member of the Association of Economists in Suriname (VES), a former board member of Lobi Foundation, and a board member of Lotjes huis, and, and Wi Tru Sranan, which was founded in 2021 to raise awareness of the values and standards of organizations. In 2021, he served as Treasurer at the Center for Democracy and Legal Education, where he took over as chairman in February 2023. Growth through experience Growth comes with its challenges. As previously indicated, Dirk’s journey at Telesur did not end as he wished. He has also learned to deal with those setbacks. Despite the many pieces of advice to go public and share in detail what the issue was, Dirk chose to remain calm and not defend the negative statements that were made about him in the news.. He chose to file a lawsuit. “In such a process you learn to know what patience is,” says Dirk. After 5 years, justice has prevailed. In August 2020, the judge ruled in favor of Dirk Currie. Compensation does not right the wrong. With spirituality as his instrument, these learning moments have taught him to deal with pain without losing enthusiasm. The contract with Telesur formally ended on June 30, 2016. On July 1, 2016, Dirk launched his own consultancy company Your Leadership Toolbox Consultancy (YLT Consultancy). As of April 1, 2017, he was appointed as one of the two directors at Fernandes. He was there as Chief Operating Officer (COO) of Fernandes Holding, on the condition that his company would not be shut down and that he would not accept commercial assignments. In June 2020, the still-ambitious Dirk submitted his letter of resignation and restarted the