SINT MAARTEN (SIMPSON BAY) - The Kidz at Sea Foundation is looking forward to announcing the launch of the second session of the “Zero to Hero” and Engineer certification series, made possible by main sponsor, the Samenwerkende Fondsen.

This Series is part of the “Zero to Hero” project, aimed at empowering local youth with professional certifications and career opportunities in the marine industry.

Following the success of the initial program, the foundation is now seeking applications from motivated candidates aged 17 to 25 to join the second session of this initiative starting January. 

The first session recently concluded with two dedicated students, Bryan and Nicholas, earning a comprehensive set of qualifications, including a STCW certification, a15M Powerboat License, a VHF Radio License, an Engineering License, and an introduction to marine career pathways and communications.

With these certifications, Bryan and Nicholas have become competitive candidates in the marine industry, equipped with diverse skills and ready to contribute to marine businesses both locally and internationally.

Graduates of past Kidz at Sea Foundation programs are now employed in local charter boat companies, marinas, other maritime businesses and even as crew aboard larger vessels.

The course is open to both male and female applicants who meet the following requirements:

• Aged 17 to 25,
• Ability to read and write,
• Ability to swim.

The application deadline is set for January 5th, 2024.  The course session will run for one month with a start date later in the month of January.

This program is specifically designed for individuals who may not have the financial means to pursue such certifications independently but are passionate about building a career in the marine industry.

Community members are encouraged to nominate deserving candidates who express the drive and determination to succeed.

The Kidz at Sea Foundation has a proud history of supporting the local community by introducing young people to the marine industry and job prospects.

As a community-centered project, the foundation relies on the support and involvement of the local network to identify and uplift talent, therefore it extends gratitude to the Maritime School of the West Indies, Magnis NV, Shortcut 2 Success, FKG Marine Rigging & Fabrication and Dock Maarten for supporting the project.

For more information about the “Zero to Hero” program or to submit an application, please email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or call +1721 580 5806.

About Kidz at Sea Foundation The Kidz at Sea Foundation is committed to empowering local youth through training and education initiatives that create lasting career opportunities in the marine industry. By combining hands-on experience with professional certifications, the foundation equips its participants with the skills they need to succeed in a competitive global market while fostering a sense of community and personal achievement.

SINT MAARTEN (GREAT BAY) - The Ombudsman of Sint Maarten, Ms. Gwendolien Mossel, recently participated in the 15^th assembly and seminar of the Latin American Institute of Ombudsmen (ILO), held from December 4-6, 2024, in Iguaçu, Brazil.

The conference focused on the theme "Ombudsmen’s and Public Offices: Conflicts, Challenges, and Contributions in Democracy," a topic both timely and significant. During her address, Ms. Mossel emphasized the crucial role ombudsmen play in upholding and advancing democratic principles.

By tackling conflicts and navigating challenges, they act as essential partners in creating more just and equitable societies. Their efforts resolve individual grievances and reinforce the pillars of democracy by fostering transparency, accountability, and justice in public service.

The conference gathered delegates from various Latin American countries who shared valuable insights and strategies for addressing pressing challenges, including environmental concerns, climate change, elderly care, and health protection. These discussions highlighted the global nature of these issues and the need for collaborative solutions.

Marking a decade since the signing of the Cooperation Agreement between ILO and the Caribbean Ombudsman Association (CAROA) on August 15 in Cali, Colombia, an updated draft Memorandum of Understanding was recently presented by ILO Vice-President and former Ombudsman of Curaçao, Ms. Alba Martijn.

This document underscores the ongoing significance of their partnership. The newly appointed CAROA board, which includes Ms. Mossel, recognizes the importance of these collaborations in addressing contemporary challenges and is committed to continuing its cooperation with the ILO.

Ms. Mossel’s involvement in the assembly reaffirms Sint Maarten's dedication to fostering international cooperation and dialogue among Ombudsman institutions worldwide. Her participation underscores a commitment to strengthening global networks and shared goals in promoting good governance and human rights.

SINT MAARTEN (GREAT BAY) - The Ministry of Public Health, Social Development, and Labor (VSA) has recently expressed its profound thanks to the RAV-Midden-West-Noord Brabant Ambulance Organization.

The acknowledgment was highlighted by the presentation of a placard token of appreciation by the Honorable Minister, Mr. Richinel Brug and Department head Mr. Cylred Richardson, symbolizing the unwavering commitment of this organization to the enhancement of the Ministry's Ambulance Department over the past decade.

This decade-long collaboration underscores the significance of international cooperation in the field of emergency medical services. The homage paid in the form of a placard not only acknowledges the organizational support received but also individual contributions, specifically honouring Ms. Lianne van Driel and Mr. Ruud Verhalle for their exceptional dedication and support.

SINT MAARTEN (SIMPSON BAY) - SXM TAXI wishes to address and clarify certain misunderstandings presented in a recent statement by the Dutch St. Maarten Taxi Association (DSTA).

SXM TAXI: “We would like to clarify that at no point has SXM TAXI claimed to be affiliated with, endorsed by, or associated with the DSTA. Our esteemed partner, Lissa “BIG TWIN” Gumbs, a born and bred citizen of Sint Maarten has been a proud member of the DSTA for Over 11 years and is thrilled to offer a cost-free opportunity for all drivers wishing to join our innovative application.

“SXM TAXI is a fully licensed entity in Sint Maarten (operating under Blackwell Holdings B.V. DBA SXM TAXI), which as per our chamber of commerce registry is authorized:

1. To manage private transportation services for goods and persons through a mobile platform and/or mobile application.
2. To coordinate with any form of agency and/or institution, including but not limited to private or public local and/or international entities, in providing transportation services for goods and persons via a mobile platform and/or mobile application.
3. To moderate, operate, and maintain an online private transportation platform, whether a website, application, or similar medium, for the purpose of providing private transportation services for goods and persons using various vehicles, including but not limited to taxis, jeeps, vans, buses, and other transportation vehicles.
4. To aid, assist, promote, and expedite the development of communication and transportation facilities, including the movement of goods, within the territory of Sint Maarten.
5. To engage in the importation, lease and sale of transportation vehicles, including but not limited to taxis, vans, buses, and other types of transportation vehicles.
6. To provide consultancy services related to the private transportation of goods and/or persons.

“We adhere strictly to the Zone Fare guidelines set forth by the government of Sint Maarten, and any modifications to these fares are promptly updated in accordance with government regulations. Our service also includes passenger count upcharges, luggage surcharges, and surge pricing during peak hours (25% from 10 PM to 12 AM and 50% from 12 AM to 5 AM) as per the government guidelines.

“The intention behind our app is to provide substantial benefits to both drivers, who incur no charges to use our services, and riders, thereby enhancing the tourist experience on the island of Sint Maarten. Our platform is an optional service designed for convenience, and its use is not mandatory.

“Since our launch, we are pleased to report over 180 driver signups and more than 1200 rider signups in just the first week, indicating a significant demand for our service.

“We remain open and eager to engage with the DSTA to ensure our operations align with all relevant government and association guidelines and to create more work for the licensed taxi drivers of Sint Maarten. 

“We appreciate the opportunity to serve Sint Maarten and are committed to constructive dialogue and transparency,” the SXM TAXI statement concludes.

SXM TAXI Committed to moving Sint Maarten forward.