SINT MAARTEN (GREAT BAY) - Three days of learning, leadership, networking, and celebration marked the successful conclusion of the JCI Dutch Caribbean National Convention 2026 on October 24.
Hosted in Sint Maarten under the theme “Passing the Torch,” the convention brought together JCI members, delegates, trainers, and young professionals to exchange knowledge and inspire positive change across the Dutch Caribbean.
October 22 | Day One: Training, Opening Ceremony and TOYP Awards
The opening day featured professional development sessions, including Professional Etiquette, facilitated by Mr. Rolando Tobias, Distinguished Toastmaster and General Manager of Retail Banking, and Project Management, led by Shakira Sedney-Albertoe, 2023 JCI Dutch Caribbean National President.
The day concluded with the official Opening Ceremony and the Ten Outstanding Young Persons (TOYP) Awards, recognizing seven individuals for their contributions to their communities:
* Shanica Romney — Humanitarian and/or Voluntary Leadership
* Tanya Balani — Medical Innovation or Achievement
* Shaomeni Patrick — Business and Entrepreneurship
* Ralph Cantave — Political, Legal, and/or Governmental Affairs
* Joy Carty — Cultural Achievement
* Sabrine Brismeur — Moral and/or Environmental Leadership
* Natorii Illidge — Personal Improvement and/or Accomplishment
October 23 | Day Two: General Assembly
Day two focused on the JCI General Assembly, where members and national representatives discussed organizational matters and the continued development of JCI Dutch Caribbean.
October 24 | Day Three: AI, Generational Wealth and Public Speaking
The final day emphasized innovation, business development, and communication through Business Etiquette and Marketing with AI, facilitated by Laurina A. Gombs, and Business Management with Claude AI, led by Luidgi Carolina-Litan of JCI Martinique.
The panel discussion, “Building Generational Wealth with AI,” featured Emilio Kalmera, Laurina A. Gombs, Irion Ardwell, and Luidgi Carolina-Litan. The panel explored the opportunities artificial intelligence presents for business development, financial growth, and generational wealth creation.
The closing ceremony featured Lucinda Audain as the keynote speaker, bringing an inspiring message to conclude the convention and reinforce its theme, “Passing the Torch.” Her keynote formed part of the convention’s focus on leadership, personal development, and the responsibility to inspire and empower future generations.
The event also featured the JCI Speaking Competition, where Ruiz Tadimoeljo of St. Maarten Academy won the Youth Division with his speech, “Be a Leader.
During the installation ceremony, Elvis Lewis and Francis Carty were installed as JCI Senators in recognition of their continued involvement in the organization.
The convention concluded with the installation of the 2027 JCI Dutch Caribbean National Board:
* National President: Sergihno Finies
* National Vice President: Christine Regis
* Immediate Past President: Anjeanee Mathew
* Treasurer: Nathan Morishaw
The successful convention was made possible through the dedication and support of the organizing committee, JCI National Board, members, Senators, trainers, volunteers, sponsors, partners, and participants. We extend our sincere gratitude to everyone who contributed to making this convention a success.
Thank you for helping us pass the torch and continue building a stronger JCI Dutch Caribbean!
