SINT MAARTEN (PHILIPSBURG) – Emerging poet and local author, Tamara Groeneveldt received Rotary’s 2020 Literacy Award in recognition of her valuable contribution to literacy on St. Martin. The Rotary Club of St. Martin Sunset, as a means to promote and encourage Basic Education and Literacy among our populous made the special presentation virtually during its general club meeting.
Tamara Groeneveldt published her first 56-page book, titled “After the Storm” which highlights the backdrop of Hurricanes Irma and Maria experiences from her home community of Grand Case. The book is currently in its second publication and labeled as a best seller. Groeneveldt has performed on the same stage as famous Caribbean authors and storytellers such as Paul Keens Douglas at the 2019 Carifesta Caribbean Festivity in Trinidad. She has recited her poetry at official St. Martin’s Day programs and other presentations attended by the island’s officials including the King and Queen of the Netherlands. Groeneveldt hopes that one day every household and school in St. Martin will own a copy of After the Storm to ensure that the St. Martin literature, story, traditions, and culture lives on.
As a surprise to Groeneveldt, members of the club recited her poem, “Bleached Skin,” before president Lake officially named her the club’s 2nd recipient of such a prestigious award. Groeneveldt was also the club’s guest speaker for the evening. She discussed her journey from reading books to writing books and the importance of education and literacy in our community.
“We are elated to highlight another talented author who has demonstrated excellence throughout her journey. Promoting literacy and encouraging aspiring authors is one of the many rewarding experiences we foster within Rotary Sunset. Groeneveldt is an example that the Rotary Club of St. Martin Sunset would like to highlight throughout the community as a young author and leader. The club wishes Tamara Groenevedlt continued success in her future endeavors and we hope to continue highlighting more of our local authors alike,” Rotary Sunset’s President Elisia Lake stated.
The Rotary Club of St. Martin Sunset meets every second and fourth Monday of the month at Carl N Sons Unique Inn and Conference Facilities in Colebay at 7:30pm. Due to Covid19, the club currently meets via Zoom. The club can be contacted via email at rotarysxmsunset@gmail.com or via the official Facebook page at facebook.com/rotarysxmsunset.
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