THE NETHERLANDS (THE HAGUE) – Minister Plenipotentiary Drs. Gracita R. Arrindell, hosted a meeting recently with Dr. Felix Holiday and Harlec Doran of the Sint Maarten Medical Center (SMMC), where they discussed opportunities to strengthen healthcare, advance professional development and how to deepen engagement with Sint Maarteners living abroad.
The discussion highlighted the important role of SMMC in training future medical professionals and developing local healthcare capacity. Through practical experience in areas such as surgery, obstetrics, gynecology, pediatrics and other clinical disciplines, SMMC provides students with a close-knit learning environment that supports professional growth and helps prepare future practitioners who may contribute to Sint Maarten’s healthcare sector.
A central theme of the meeting was the need to establish stronger, and more sustained connections with the Sint Maarten diaspora. The Cabinet reaffirmed its commitment to serving as a bridge between Sint Maarten and its communities in the Netherlands, supporting students and professionals through targeted outreach, networking opportunities and improved communication.
The development of a more active database of diaspora professionals was identified as an important step toward connecting individuals’ skills, qualifications and interest with employment opportunities and other areas of need on the island.
The meeting also addressed the conditions necessary to encourage professionals to return or contribute their expertise from abroad. These include clearer pathways to employment, access to suitable housing and stronger support systems for students and young professionals who may face personal or mental health challenges while studying or working overseas.
Beyond healthcare, the discussion underscored the growing need for qualified professionals across several sectors including information technology, engineering, accounting, human resources and technical maintenance. A resilient healthcare system and effective public sector depend not only on the many physicians and other health care practitioners, but also

on the many skilled professionals who help institutions operate safely, efficiently and sustainably.
The potential for collaboration with Dutch knowledge institutions and industry partners, including Philips, Delft was also explored. Such partnerships could help advance healthcare technology, technical training, knowledge exchange and innovation at the Sint Maarten Medical Center, while creating opportunities for students and professionals to expand their expertise.
The Cabinet will continue its outreach through upcoming community initiatives, including activities surrounding Sint Maarten’s Day 2026 celebrations. These engagements provide valuable opportunities to reconnect with the diaspora, strengthen cultural ties and encourage Sint Maarteners living abroad to remain actively involved in the country’s development.
Minister Plenipotentiary Arrindell emphasized the importance of creating meaningful opportunities for people to contribute to Sint Maarten’s progress, regardless of where they currently reside.
“Every contribution matters in a small community such as Sint Maarten. Our task is to create trust, opportunities, and meaningful connections that allow all people to contribute whether from abroad or by returning home.”
The meeting forms part of the Minister’s ongoing efforts to strengthen relationships with the Sint Maarten diaspora, promote professional development, and facilitate partnerships that can contribute to the island’s long-term healthcare capacity and sustainable development.

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PHOTO Caption:
L to R: Harlec Doran, Manager Human Resources SMMC, Dr. Felix Holiday, Director of SMMC, and Minister Plenipotentiary Drs. Gracita R. Arrindell.