CARIFESTA XI MAGAZINE 2013 English

CULTURE FOR DEVELOPMENT

Suriname presents you its colorfulness through:

Magazine Carifesta XI Magazine 1

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CULTURE FOR DEVELOPMENT

Contents

24 Culinary Tourism

Movie Featured 5 6 7

Prologue Carifesta XI Informative Carifesta XI Culture for development 8 Branding The Carifesta XI 9 Capturing the ambiance of Carifesta XI 12 The different faces of Suriname 50 Carifesta XI Highlights 58 Epilogue

Culture 10 14 16 18 20 22

Carifesta XI Impressions Visual arts Sculpture Performing arts Music Movie

53 22 46 Development 24 28 30 37

Culinary Carifesta XI Impressions Youth Focus Carifesta XI Impressions

Development

32 Stimulating Indigenous youth to move forward 34 Health 36 Traditional Village 39 The Surinamese Chamber of Commerce and Industry 40 The port of Suriname 44 The sky is the limit 46 Mining our own business 48 Vision Caricom and Unasur 53 A colorful experience 56 Diaspora Tourism 57 New years eve In Suriname

Colophon Direction Joey Raymann Carry Leysner Creative direction and design Bidjai Roeplal Publisher SportXperience Contribution Claudia Raijmann William Codrington Anna Wielkens Cornelius Pigot Sherida Mormon Winston Kout Carifesta Head office

Photography Events in Suriname SportXmagazine William Codrington Claudia Raijmann Werner Simons Ingrid Moesan Screening and translation Beryll Kraag Special thanks to Winston Kout Sandra Sweeb Michael Watson Salcia Ramautarsing Ingrid Moesan and all advertisers

www. sportxmagazine .com | info@sportxmagazine.com Carifesta XI Magazine 3

WORD OF THANK

We gladly express our gratitude to those who contributed in any way whatsoever to the success of Carifesta XI. The memories of this 10 day long amazing Caribbean Festival of Arts will definitely last forever.

We couldn’t have done it without you.

First of all we say thanks to our biggest sponsor; ‘ The people of Suriname and all her guests and friends from CARICOM and UNASUR’.

Furthermore we like to thank all our other sponsors , especially:

PREMIUM SPONSOR

Digicel

HEM

Mister Jim Lok Ho Ting from Hong Kong

Energie Bedrijven Suriname

VCB

Rudisa

SEMC

Surishopping

Florin Exchange

Vensur

De Ware Tijd

Telesur Fernandes Holding

SAB SURMAC Carribean Airlines

Centrale bank

Ministry of National Recourses

I AMGOLD

Mangli

OLIBIS Staatsolie DSB Bank

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Torarica SWM Havenbeheer NV Luchthaven

YokoHama

Self Reliance

VSH- Holding

Surinam Airways

Cirkel Group

Surichange

Ashruf Caremenco

Carifesta XI The true spirit of unity in our Caribbean region

With great honor and gratitude we present you this Special Carifesta XI Magazine Suriname.

This Carifesta, with the special theme: ‘Culture for Development’, marks a revolution in the development of all aspects of Culture related to the development of the region and our nations.

Since my government came in power in 2010, we have placed strong emphasis on the development of our human capital and therefore on the development of our portfolio in the CARICOM, which is: ‘Community Development and cultural Cooperation, including Youth, Sport, Culture and Gender.’

As host country for Carifesta it has been our pleasure to welcome our friends from the Caribbean, Latin America, South America and other continents of the world to celebrate, to share and experience the unity of the cultural movement of the region.

I love you all!

The President of the Republic of Suriname, His Excellency Desire, Delano Bouterse

Suriname as a developing country, with a very rich history and culture, already conquered it’s colonial legacy and now refining the ‘Crude Jewel’ that was left behind. This Jewel has tremendous value, and this value is expressed colorful, in so many ways by our beautiful people.

Carifesta XI Magazine 5

Caribbean Festival of Arts CARIFESTA Carifesta is for and about the people of this region; the ‘folk’ who remain the foundation and the driving forces of our collective nations. These are the unsung ones, who remember the solid values, the respect, the honesty and the simplicity. They make it their purpose, their raison d’etre to behave as true elders do, and bestow their knowledge and experience on the younger ones. As such, every time this region holds a Carifesta it is deepening its commitment to its people and reaffirming its understanding of the value and power of our collective cultures.

The Carifesta celebrations first took place in this post-independence format in Guyana in 1972. However, the very first celebration of Caribbean Arts had taken place twenty years prior in Puerto Rico in 1952. Only Trinidad and Tobago and Jamaica were represented from the then British Caribbean Colonies. The celebrations which were held to commemorate the independence and republic status of Guyana between the latter part of the 1960s into the early ‘70s, led to a great deal of discussion among the arists who were involved. Critical to this dis-

cussion were two of the region’s most senior artists, novelist George Lamming and acclaimed Guyanese poet, Martin Carter. The then Guyanese Prime Minister Forbes Burnham supported the idea of a new Caribbean Arts Festival and offered to host the event; and so, Carifesta as we know it, was born.

That first Carifesta in Guyana lasted for three weeks. The next Carifesta was held in Jamaica in 1976 and lasted eleven days, while the third took place in Cuba in 1979 and lasted for two weeks. Carifesta was not held for eleven years after this, though it was resumed in Barbados in 1981.

Since then the festival has been held fairly regularly. The two Carifestas held in Trinidad and Tobago had widely been acknowledged as the two most exciting festivals. In fact, the concept of the Community Festival started with the T&T experience.

also the first time that schoolchildren played an active role in the continued evolution of the festival, essential for deepening the experience and relevance of Carifesta. At this stage in the evolution of the Caribbean, the pressures of existing in aglobal economic system, increasing demands on the ave-rage family and heads of households and the need to keep the region viable amidst all its challenges, make it even more difficult for Caribbean people to articulate a common vision.

This year Suriname had the honor to be the host of Carifesta XI. The hostcountry of the next Carifesta in 2015 will be Haiti.

For Carifesta 2006, the youth component of Carifesta included Symposia as well, incorporating such topics of regional interest and concern as HIV/ AIDS, cultural identity and preservation of indigenous traditions. It was

Caribbean Community [CARICOM]

Antigua & Barbuda, the Bahamas, Barbados, Belize, Dominica, Grenada, Guyana, Haïti, Jamaica, Montserrat, St. Kitts & Nevis, Saint Lucia, St. Vincent & the Grenadines, Suriname and Trinidad & Tobago

Union of South American nations [UNASUR)

Argentina, Bolivia, Brazil, Chile, Colombia,Ecuador, Guyana,Paraguay, Venezuela, Peru, Suriname and Uruguay

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CARIFESTA XI Culture for development As humans we should not be guided by the idea of ‘power’, but rather by the power of the ‘idea’. Carifesta XI is the perfect example of the power of the ‘idea’ when looking at the success of this event. In all crucial decisions that were taken while organizing this event, the originality of the idea was an important part of their successes.

The theme of Carifesta XI The chosen theme ‘Culture for Development’ was very daring. Not many people in Suriname would have made a connection between these two topics.

The fact that investments in the cultural industries are minimal speaks for itself. However, Carifesta XI has certainly succeeded in opening many eyes with regard to the importance of culture for development. The Republic of Suriname has shown once again that economic integration can also be achieved through development of the cultural sector that will in turn lead to social integration. Without economic integration there will be no social integration in the Caricom and Unasur countries. Although Carifesta XI has now taken the first step and set the tone, there are many next steps to be taken.

The people’s Palace The idea of transforming our Independence Square into an open-air theatre, using the Presidential Palace as a stage has played an unmistakable role in the successes. Adding the three-dimensional lighting of the palace made the success complete. This transformation allowed us to experience a true ‘people’s palace’, with playing children from near and far, artists walking in and out from everywhere, numerous workers conducting preparatory activities and people partying. The diverse program of Carifesta offered a variety of activities to participate in or visit during the day, while the Presidential Palace served as the main stage in the evenings with the most surprising, creative and outstanding performances that could be enjoyed by people all over the world. As a

true ‘people’s president’ our President became one with the audience at each and every location he visited. He knows how to please his people like no one else.

our arts, our languages and the source of our dreams and aspirations. Culture is what makes us human, what defines us as Caribbean”.

Youth Village Our Youth Village has been renamed the ‘Jewel in the Crown’ of this event due to the extraordinary co-operation between the youth of the many different countries. The countless performances made it possible that in 2013 our young people were able to experience the best start of the vacation in their lives. Even long after midnight people stayed on site until they were informed by the people from the Youth Village organization that the activities had really come to an end.

Carifesta XI - Magazine After ten years Suriname had the privilege to, once again, act as host of the Caribbean Festival of Arts. An event considered by many countries as the highlight of art, culture and development in the Caribbean. The Carifesta XImagazine Special Limited Edition intends to show not only the activities during Carifesta XI, but also the positive and vibrant atmosphere in our country during this festival. Suriname is an unique country with a lively history and can be compared to a raw diamond, which needs to be refined. Carifesta XI Magazine Special Limited edition is for us pre-eminently the platform to reveal the layers of our diamond and the many layers in the hearts of the Surinamese people. Their cordiality and mentality, which sometimes may appear to be quite rough, has a certain history and once unraveled you will see true purity, charity and solidarity. This all in the context of art, culture and development.

Family from abroad Our brothers and sisters from Cuba, Haiti, Guyana, Jamaica and many other Caricom and Unasur countries were motivated more than ever to give their best performances on the many stages.

All performances were equally heartwarming and charming and presented the many talented artists we have right here in the Caribbean. When Ahmadinejad of Iran congratulated Barack Obama, the president of the United States of America, with his first term, he said that ‘God given chances’ are short-lived and you have to exploit them directly. Only minutes after his installation Obama started working.

One success leads to another and that is why I call upon all stakeholders in the Caricom-Unasur countries to use Carifesta XI as an example of how to use culture for development’. The theme for Carifesta XI: “Culture for Development: Celebrating our diversity and promoting the central role of culture in economic, social and human development”, encompasses all aspects of sustainable human development, while at the same time revealing an inherent respect for human rights by paying equal attention to diversity. Culture is not just an economic driver, but the core of our identity, the expression of ourselves through

Words of gratitude As a final word I want to thank everyone who contributed to this resounding successof this festival. I also want to thank the organizations and artists who were responsible for the very spectacular regionallaunch of the festival on March the 15th, at Fort Zeelandia and those who were responsible for the Pre Carifesta periode in July, which was an absolute highlight.

Last but not least I want to thank fellow directors and the HCMC led by Ivan Graanoogst and all the workers of the different Carifesta offices and our fieldworkers.

Take care and always do the right thing!

GOD Bless.

Winston Kout, Communication-director Carifesta XI Carifesta XI Magazine 7

STAS International Branding the Carifesta XI Kenzo Soemodihardjo & Karin Refos It all began when the Host Country Management Committee (Commission HCMC) approached STAS International to develop a media strategy and to coordinate the Carifesta XI activities. STAS International, the company of Karin Refos, is a company that specializes in the promotion of companies, brands and events in a way that meets international standards.

STAS International advised the authorities in the context of Carifesta XI with the purpose to improve the strategy and the communication between Suriname and the CARICOM. From branding Suriname’s identity as ”living together in perfect harmony and equality of people”, the Carifesta song and promotion video were born.

The banners and billboards used for the promotion of Carifesta XI are also linked to this principle. At the same time several 8 Carifesta XI Magazine

bureaus and organizations were approached to implement this strategy, within their own expertise. Karin Refos believes that Carifesta has to bring Suriname to a higher level. It has to be more than a cultural and ethnical festival. STAS International aimed to create a contemporary Surinamese and Caribbean style which meets the standards to compete with other regional festivals like the North Sea Jazz Festival. At the same time, they also wanted to give meaning to the slogan ‘Culture for Development’.

worked with the youth as target group. After all, as the ‘people of tomorrow’ it is up to them to bring our cultural diversity and integrations to greater heights.

This is why Artistic Manager Kenzo Soemodihardjo had chosen for collaboration with young Surinamese artists like Danitia Sahadewsing, Tjatjie Bel and Enver Panka with great potential to give form to the promotion song and video clip, which reached the number one spot on various hit charts of the local media channels only one week after its launch.

The intent of their media strategy is not only to communicate with a logo, but to carry out Suriname from a modern perspective during this event through language, music, colors and other artistic forms like art, theater, crafts, dance and culinary arts. They call it the “look and feel” strategy. They mainly

Both Karin Refos and Kenzo Soemodihardjo agree that the organization of such a big event was a huge challenge, but the goal has been more than reached and Carifesta XI has been developed and propagated in a professional manner.

The registration of the Suriname contingent was coupled with a lot of spectacle. It was a very festive event, with various activities on the streets, where the participatinggroups passed a torch in a ceremonial manner to each other.

The minister of Education, Ashwin Adhin was also present and surprisingly sang and played on the accordion.

Ingrid Moessan

Capturing the ambiance of Carifesta XI

One of the photographers who came by coincidence was the well-known Ingrid Moesan. “I have one word for this happening, SENSATIONAL” saysthe Freelance event photographer. “I immediately felt the Caribbean vibe and was completely captivated by Carifesta. Because of my multicultural background, with ancestors from India, Africa and Europe, I really loved the different cultures and all the colors.

Too bad there were not more photographer; because Inow feel as if we do not have pictures of everything there was to see.”

Ingrid Moesan was also present at the Pre-Carifesta event in july this year. She was especially impressed by the coordination of the organization.“The festivities were for two hours nonstop, exactly according to the planning and even thesound was fantastic.” she says.

The Pre-Carifesta event was even more crowded than the registration and the numerous photographers were all looking for a good spot to shoot their pictures. “ I take photography very serious and I always aim for perfection, but that was not totally possible for their were so many photographers, trying to take their best shots of this big event. But all toghether it was again very impressive. The presentations were beautiful, the audience was enthusiastic and there was a lot of variation in the performances.

It had everything, from rock and roll to traditional Surinamese music.” I felt the vibe and was already exited for the real thing coming up: Carifesta XI.

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Audrey Bakrude who gave a stunning performens during the Pre Carifesta Party

The Indonesian Embassy dance group

Tropicana de Cuba

During the closing ceremony of the Carifesta XI, the government of Suriname gave away a mind blowing performance. The President, Vice-President, several ministers and members of the parliament sung, danced and played music together in the surprise act.

The public, the President of Haiti and Wyclef Jean went ‘crazy’ on this performance. After this surprise act President Bouterse handed 10 Carifesta XI Magazine over the ‘baton’ of Carifesta to President Martelly. President Martelly invited everyone to Haiti in 2015.

Fashion show, Independence Square

The Indonesian Embassy dance group

CARIFESTA XI IMPRESSIONS

Culinary art

Opening Youth Village

Performance art

Performance art

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Proud citizens of Suriname Suriname, officially known as the Republic of Suriname, is a country in northern South America. It is bordered by French Guiana to the east, Guyana to the west, Brazil to the south and the Atlantic Ocean to the north, making it one of two countries, French Guiana the other, not to border any of the Spanish-speaking countries on the continent. Suriname was colonized by the English and the Dutch in the 17th century.

At just under 165,000 km2 (64,000 sq. mi), Suriname is the smallest sovereign state in South America. Suriname has a population of approximately 542.000 most of whom live on the country’s north coast, where the capital Paramaribo is located.

The official language is Dutch. It is the only independent entity in the Americas where Dutch is spoken. Suriname is divided into ten districts: Brokopondo, Commewijne, Coronie, Marowijne, Nickerie, Para, Paramaribo, Saramacca, Sipaliwini and Wanica.

The population of Suriname is one of the most colorful of the region.

The indigenous are the native people of Suriname. The colonial times brought us Europeans, Maroons, Indians, Chinese, Javanese and Creoles. But in a later stage also people from CARICOM - and UNASUR countries, as well as people from other countries around the world came to Suriname to build themselves a new home. All those colorful people have one thing in common: The love for their country Suriname.

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Nickerie Azizahamad Zahier

Abdul Mujeeb Faoudkhan

Born: Nickerie - 1975 In suriname since: Birth Occupation: Public Information officer at the Ministery of Sport- and Youthaffairs Quote: “With her multicultural society, Suriname is the only country in the world where we peacefully live together.

I LOVE SU!!!”

Born: Guyana –Georgetown -1957 In Suriname since: 1983 Occupation: Famous Snow cones (shaved ice) venter Quote: “I’m a snowcone venter in Paramaribo for almost 26 years. Paramaribo is my hometown now”.

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Coronie

Saramacca

Charlene Donk

Jean Raymon Nicolas

Born: Coronie - Suriname -1997 In Suriname since: Birth Occupation: Student Quote: “Suriname is a great country because I live there”.

Born: Haiti - Leogane -1968 In Suriname since: 1984 Occupation: Mason and musician. Also Chairman of the Haitian committee “Lavalas” in Suriname.

Quote: “Suriname is a good country. I’m very proud of the way the Surinamese President and the Surinamese people welcomed President Martelly from Haiti to this country. Many can learn from this”.

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Para

Wanica

Stefanie Sabajo

Maria Pancham

Born: Suriname – Paramaribo - 1989 In Suriname since: Birth Occupation: parttime Adminstartive assistent at STOCPA; an agricultural foundation of Para and parttime promotion employee Quote: “I love my country. It’s great we have Carifesta here this year. I accompany the Cuban delegation. They say Suriname is a beautiful country and I get a lot of positive comments. I’m proud to be a Surinamese”.

Born: Grenada – Grannan -1959 In Suriname since: 1973 Occupation: Airline employee at our national carrier Surinam airways Quote: “I love Suriname. I love the people they are friendly. Suriname is the only country in the Caribbean with so many different cultures. It’s always Carifesta”.

Sipaliwini

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Brokopondo

Richenel Rine Pimoe

Boike Tojo

Born: Suriname – Sipaliwini -1993 In Suriname since: Birth Occupation: Student and General Manager of Weekly Short Suriname Stripstories (WKSS) and Caricom Youth-Assistant of the district Sipaliwini and designer of the anti-discrimination logo 2013 Quote: “Suriname is awesome, I only wished we had an animation school”.

Born: Kwinti dorp- district Sipaliwini -1973 in suriname since: Birth Occupation: Entrepeneur Afu- Mena NV in Brokopondo Quote: “Suriname is the best country in the world. It has a very divers culture. The beautiful people makes it unique and we have a splendid naturelife”.

Marowijne

Miquel van Assen Born: Moengo – Suriname - 1987 In Suriname since: Birth Occupation: Student and Athlete Quote: “I am very proud to represent my country Suriname during international competitions”.

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Commewijne Rudolf Mingoen Born :Paramaribo 1968 In Suriname since: Birth Occupation:Teacher and Director of the Music school MECC at Commewijne Quote: “Suriname is my spouse,my love. I get up for her, I always think about her, I work hard to support her and she provides me well”.

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Paramaribo Milao Ibrahim Born: Libanon - 1966 In Suriname since: 1989 Occupation: Retailer Quote: “My wife is from Suriname.

We both have our own store now.

Suriname is a blessed country with a lot of resources. The Surinamese people have to appriciate that.”

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Kimberley Snijders Born: The Netherlands – Leidschedam - 1982 In Suriname since: 1993 Occupation: Part-time hostess at a guesthouse Quote: “Suriname is a great country.

People are friendly, nice and cozy. We have a wonderful nature life, lots of green. I never get bored. I just love Suriname, its home, the place I want to be!”

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Dennis Lee Chi Pun Born: China - Hong Kong - 1964 In Suriname since: 1978 Occupation: Business jeweler since 1985 Quote: “I’ve always been a jeweler in Suriname. My store is located in Paramaribo.

This business is lucrative because Surinamese people love gold.”

Suriname

Toredjo Juliette Born: Commewijne - 1976 In Suriname since: Birth Occupation: Teacher in Paramaribo Quote: “I love Suriname. This is where I was born and raised.

This is where I feel free.”

Population per district Ethnic group Number Paramaribo 240.924 Wanica 118.222 Nickerie 34.333 Coronie 3.391 Saramacca 17.480 Commewijne 31.420 Marowijne 18.294 Para 24.700 Brokopondo 15.909 Sipaliwini 37.065 TOTAL 541.638

Area in km 182 443 5.353 3.902 3.636 2.353 4.627 5.393 7.364 130.567 163.820

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Population by ethnicity Ethnic group Maroon Creole Hindi Javanese Mixed Others Unclassified TOTAL

Number 117.567 84.933 148.443 73.975 72.340 40.985 3.395 541.638

8th Census in Suriname – 2012 Source: Algemeen Bureau voor de Statistiek

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Visual arts 14 Carifesta XI Magazine

CULTURE

Robbert Enfield Art as a tool for development

He graduated in 1990 and participated in group expositions of 5 new artists who entered the Surinamese art community. His first exposition was a huge success, resulting in the sale of every single piece of his collection of beautiful watercolor paintings.

His artworks showed his love of fresh colors and his work was distinguished by slum dwellings and cityscapes. After that Enfield was self-employed for 7 years, experimenting, exposing and developing his art. Dentist Joyce Gever started ‘Art 2000’ in 1994 and at Café ‘t Vat they held their two-man expositions called Upstairs. Upstairs

was an open space where easements were exhibited. During these exhibitions he sold all his paintings.

His talents did not go unnoticed and in 1997 he earned a scholarship for the Edna Manley College for Visual and Performing Art in Jamaica where he studied until 1999. As completion of the study, a group exhibition was organized by 15 senior year students, providing them all with the space to expose their works.

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“

This is the opinion of visual-arts artist Robbert Enfield, born on November 16th in 1969 in Paramaribo as the son of Freeman Green and Louisse Enfield. He started drawing comic superheroes at the age of 7. When Enfield was 10 years old, the military takeover of 1980 caught his attention. He began drawing the leader of that time including the current President of the Republic Suriname, Desire Delano Bouterse. Slowly but surely, his efforts paid off and he developed into the best drawing student of his school. At the age of 16, while still a student at the technical school, he decided to enter the Nola Hatterman Academy of Arts. At the end of the second grade he decided to dropout of technical school and focus completely on exploring his talents at the Nola Hatterman Institute. His course was set.

The transfer of knowledge is of great significance to an artist. Reproduction is one of the laws of life which contributes greatly to the development of a country.

Therefore the government needs to be triggered to invest in building a museum so that well-known and upcoming artists can expose the versatile art of this country to the local population and tourists.

Without art there is no life.

Art is life

Enfield manufactured 15 big artworks of 2 by 1.50 meter and around 30 smaller works. During this exhibition he acquired fame as a Surinamese artist in Jamaica. A lot of art collectors bought his work during the exhibition.

“My biggest inspiration comes from nature at large because nature is related to us. We are a part of it”, says Enfield surefooted. He is at his best in quiet environments because his inspiration comes from the things around him, from the attitude of people and the way people influence each other.

Before his 50th birthday he wants to pass his knowledge on to the youth of Suriname. He leads the successful project ‘train the trainers’ of the Ministry of Education under the um-

brella of the directorate Culture. The goal of the first part of the project is to improve the drawing skills of local teachers and the awareness for art of youth between 12 and 16.

A group of 100 students of VOJAtjoni in the district Brokopondo, get drawing lessons from Robbert Enfield, using non-conventional materials.

During these lessons they use material they have never used at school, like wood glue, A4 color paper, sand, dry grass color pencils and water paint.

They have to work with untraditional materials. Step by step they are taught how to complete their assignment. It is a combination of the techniques of the cities and the experience and culture of the backwoods. Enfield has the following to say about this project: “The children can also inspire the grown-ups. They can express their feelings on paper and they can create if they are provided with the right material. The first part of the pro-ject has ended on the 13th of August 2013. On this day the students of VOJ Atjoni exposed their artworks.”

During Carifesta XI the artwork of Enfield was exposed at the Grand Central Market. Enfield was honored to be part of this Carifesta. “Without art there is no life. Art is Life”, according to the artist.

Carifesta XI Magazine 15

Sculpture 16 Carifesta XI Magazine

Self Portrait Sculpture

by Erwin de Vries

CULTURE

Erwin de Vries The Caribbean Rembrandt It is clear and widely known that artist Erwin de Vries belongs to the great on earth in the area of fine art. The fact that Erwin de Vries is both a painter and a sculptor makes him unique. He has managed to put Suriname on the world map with his beautiful paintings and sculptures.

De Vries, born on the 21st of December 1929 in Paramaribo, is the son of H.J. de Vries and Anette Fuyooah. Apart from truly being of Surinamese origin, he also has a lot in common with his home country.

Just like in its early days the young Republic of Suriname, the country had to face scrutiny, the now well-known artist de Vries also had to face the scrutiny of a lot of people, including his own father, who did not believe in his talents. But by developing their qualities and talents in combination with a strong will and confidence in their own abilities, the artist, as well as Suriname, proved themselves.

He studied in The Netherlands at the Royal Academy of Arts in The Hague and at the National Academy of Fine Arts in Amsterdam. He participated in group exhibitions with artists like Pablo Picasso, Henry Moore and Ossip Zadkine in Sonsbeek.

His work is also exposed under the same roof as the Grandmaster Rembrandt in the National Museum of The Netherlands in

Amsterdam. He is the creator of the National Monument of Slavery in Amsterdam, which was revealed on the 1st of July in 2002, in the presence of the Former Queen of The Netherlands, Princes Beatrix.

honor for Suriname to host the eleventh Caribbean Festival. We can propagate the Surinamese culture with all it facets in a dignified manner and present ourselves to the world. Not only with artworks, but also with other expressions like Erwin the Vries received more dance, music, food and many than 13 awards in Suriname other things�, says the most and abroad including Officer popular artist of Suriname. in Order of the Yellow Star in Suriname in 1997 and Hono- De Vries has put Suriname on rary Citizenship in 2009 in The the map with more than 2000 Netherlands. People are the key artworks and has represented in his works. Not only the beau- his country in more than 20 ty of the woman and the woman countries as a worthy ambassaas generator of life, but also the dor to Suriname. successful man is always essential in his creations. In the area of sculptures de Vries has made busts of various prominent people in Suriname and The Netherlands. He is also known as the Caribbean Rembrandt.

At Carifesta XI the artwork of de Vries was exposed at the halls of the Chamber of Commerce and in the garden of the Bank of Suriname (DSB) during the Nationale Kunstbeurs (National Art Fair) 2013. “It is a great Carifesta XI Magazine 17

Performing arts Marlene Lie A Ling

Dance creates leaders

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For Carifesta XI the well-known pedagogue, dancer and choreographer Marlene Lie A Ling, submitted the project ‘Suriname Forever’. She did the choreography while musician Ernst Dal and a live band were responsible for the music. This 30 minute program portrayed a short history of and vision for the future of Suriname. It was about creating one big eye, meaning that if we have a shared vision the development of the future will go faster, so you have to make a strong unity. When the heart speaks, you can feel it and when the music comes then you fly, but the children first have to give a national feeling to Folklore, the eye of the heart.

CULTURE

Marlene Lie A Ling, born on the 16th of November 1947 is a true ballerina, she breathes talks, walks and is Ballet. Her dancing skills and expertise, even admired by royalties, also brought her overseas where she represented Suriname with Classic, Jazz, Modern and Folklore dance styles. Marlene is the daughter of Frank Lie A Ling, a successful banker, and Nissa Akrum a main character in the theater scene of Suriname. She started with ballet lessons as a 5-year old. She always wanted to be a dancer and at the age of 8 she already performed for the late Queen Juliana of the Netherlands in the auditorium of the Cultural Center Suriname. Lie A Ling also is co-founder of the National Ballet, which started with 7 schools. At the Marlene ballet school classical ballet is primary taught, but lessons Modern, Jazz and Folklore dance styles are also given. The minimum age to start with ballet is 3 years. Lie A Ling gets her ideas for the performances from conversations with her very artistic husband. He then puts the ideas

on paper and is also responsible for the design of the costumes and accessories.

From ballet to Folklore In 1968 Marlene Lie A Ling started at the Dance Academy of Rotterdam. After only a week of classes she promoted to the second year by the means of English teacher Michael Holmes, so she did her 4-year study in 3 years. She graduated as pedagogue and dancer in Classical, Modern and Character dance. As a 23year old she came back to Suriname and started to give ballet lessons at the Cultural Center Suriname. In 1984 she started teaching Folklore at her dance school. The Surinamese Folklore consists of 6 different styles and represents 6 of the many different ethnic groups in the Surinamese population, namely the dance styles of the Native, Maroon, Chinese, Indian, Javanese and Creole people.

The goal of Marlene Lie A Ling is to start a National Institute for Folklore dances, where all groups can practice

their dance art. “We need more men in Folklore, it would be good to have more boys because the respect for each other can then be taught at a young age,” says the passionate Lie A Ling. “Boys taking dance lessons still is a taboo because people have the wrong perception.” She further indicates that her lessons create leaders. You have to watch carefully, listen well, work independent and carry out what you say.

Across borders In 1986 Lie A Ling started representing Suriname abroad. In Cayenne, French-Guyana she participated with Folklore, Modern, Classic and Traditional dances. In 2012 she won first prize in Belem in a dance competition which had the theme ‘Violence against women’. She also represented Suriname in Haiti, the Netherlands, France, Ecuador, Sao Paolo, Trinidad & Tobago and Washington. According to Marlene it is essential to visit other countries on a regular base in order to renew and develop.

Carifesta XI Magazine 19

Amazing moments with Donnie McClurkin

Music

Young upcoming Surinamese singer Shanice Redan, also known as Lady Shaynah, is quite experienced. She has won various talent shows, done many performances and recently won Suriname’s most prestigious singing competition Suripop with her song “Koloku” featuring Elvin Pool.

However, she marks her Carifesta XI experience as the absolute highlight of her still early career.

The reason is that on Sunday August 18, she and her gospel group ‘Blessed and Highly Favored’ (BHF) were fortunate to get the chance to sing and share a stage with the world-famous Gospel singer, actor, composer

From left to right: Ashley-Amarie Jules, Lady Shaynah, Donnie McClurkin,Joy Meye, Jo-anna Blackman

and pastor Donnie McClurkin. Not only did they sing songs together from his repertoire, but the world renowned star then joined BHF in singing their theme song ‘Blessed and Highly Favored’. “That was an amazing moment, the international star Donnie McClurkin singing our song was a big honor”, she says.

It started on Saturday August 17, with her group BHF performing as warm-up for the concert of Donnie McClurkin on the Independence Square which was packed with thousands of people.

Before the concert Donnie wanted to get to know all people involved in the performance and after

meeting BHF he asked them to sing for him.

The next day at the Flamboyant Park they again were the warm-up act for pastor McClurkin and after his preach he called upon them to join him on stage where they sang together for an audience of thousands. She says: “If there is one thing I have learned from this experience, it is to always be prepared for anything. Other artists from Suriname and abroad also can learn a lot from Pastor Donnie McClurkin’s attitude.

He is open to everyone and makes a chat with everybody. Despite his accomplishments he is still very down to earth.” Her favorite song of McClurkin is ‘The Prayer’ with

Yolanda Adams, but she also loves the more up-tempo ‘As Long as There is Us’ because it reminds her of the fact that she can overcome even what looks like the biggest problems if God is on her side.

Lady Shaynah also sang at the opening of the Carifesta Green Area at the Youth Village where she sang the National anthem of Suriname. “It is a wonderful initiative to create a place for the youth during Carifesta and the many areas were very nice”, she says with a big smile.

World famous DJ Chuckie gets honored DJ Chuckie, born as Clyde Sergio Narain on the 25th of June in 1978 in Suriname, was decorated as Commander of the Order of the Yellow Star by the President of Suriname, Desire Delano Bouterse. The President indicated that Suriname has a lot of appreciation for the DJ and his world-class performances in the music industry and that he is an inspiration for the youth of Suriname. The world famous DJ of Surinamese descent who now lives in Aruba, was in his homeland to perform at the opening of the Carifesta Youth Village. The village was fully packed and the crowd went wild during his amazing performance.

20 Carifesta XI Magazine

Carifesta XI was a very beneficial event for Sandino Rathling and Ryan Lewis, the two people behind the Surinamese T-shirt brand Afrotoonz. The designs of the Afrotoonz T-shirts characterize the diversity of Surinamese people.

Apart from the normal Afrotoonz designs, they also design special limited editions for artists like the famous Surinamese artist Koyeba and Dutch rapper Adje.

The idea of Afrotoonz started when Sandino Rathling moved to The Netherlands to study at the University of Amsterdam. As a student he started his own business to pay for his study.

Rathling, who always had a thing for fashion, saw some artworks of his cousin Karl and he decided to portray these works on T-shirts. After successfully finishing his study, he returned to Suriname. He subsequently approached his old classmate Ryan Lewis to support him in continuing the business he started in The

Netherlands, in Suriname. The two companions lobbied to find an offset market for their T-shirts. They ended up going into business with Mike Ling the owner of Dresscode, a fashion and- gift shop in Suriname that is also the official dealer of the “I Love SU” products.

Nowadays Afrotoonz is an understanding in Suriname and across borders.

During Carifesta these young ambitious entrepreneurs had a stand at the Youth Village at the SOSIS - sport complex where people could buy the T-shirts. But they gained more from Carifesta XI. They recently reached an agreement with DJ Chuckie, who played at the opening of Youth Village, to design a limited edition T-shirt for him.

But the guys wanted even more. At the press conference, before the performance of Haitian superstar Wyclef Jean, they surprised him with their designs. Wyclef

Jean was impressed and proposed to visit the shop Dresscode to talk to the young entrepreneurs and look at their other designs. He told them about his life and that he had no money as a kid and made his first million dollars at the age of 18.

He wished the same for them and expressed the hope to see them soon in New York. And thus a new limited edition T-shirt for Wyclef was born. During the show Wyclef Jean made it possible for Rathling, Lewis and Ling to hand over a T-shirt to the President of Suriname.

Sandino Rathling, Ryan Lewis and Mike Ling are overjoyed with the idea that the designs are not only loved in Suriname, but also by people in other countries. We are convinced we will be hearing a lot more from Afrotoonz.

CULTURE

Wyclef Jean supports local creative team

Sandino Rathling, Wyclef Jean and Mike Ling

Kawina Carifesta workshops On the 24th of august 2013 the Kawina Carifesta event of this year took place at the Bronze Square in Paramaribo. “Normally the Kawina Festival is an annual event where different music groups compete against each other. But with the Carifesta point of view in mind we decided to change the set-up a little. Instead of holding a competition we included performances and workshops in this event so that our foreign visitors could get to know more about this music”, says Clifton Braam, coordinator of the Kawina Carifesta Event and Head of Public Relations of organizer NAKS-Suriname. The Community Organization NAKS, established on May 4th 1947, carries out programs with activities that aim to make a contribution to the process

raising awareness on national and cultural related issues.The workshops were given by the well-known artists Ernie Wolf and Ruben ‘Stoffie’ Muringen. They recently also gave pre-Carifesta workshops at 6 primary schools to interest the youth in the music and teach them how to use the instruments.

Kawina is a traditional music style that finds its origin in the time of slavery. It was a form of entertainment for the slaves. They made music with the tools they worked with and other things they could find and then danced to the music. In the course of time the tools were replaced by music instruments. A few of the instruments that are used by Kawina musicians are the kot’ kawina, har’ kawina, bangi and skratsji.

Carifesta XI Magazine 21

Cynthia McLeod

Movie

A journey through the history of Suriname.

McLeod’s bestseller will be available in English just before the movie goes into premiere.

Cynthia McLeod quietly sits on the couch in the living room of her home. Her beautiful gray hair, dark eyes, her tight dark skin and young appearance complete the image of the 76 year inspiring writer, who bends a little as soon as she starts telling about her works.

Her storytelling immediately grabs your attention and brings you on a journey through the history of Suriname.

McLeod was born on the 4th of October 1936 in Paramaribo as Cynthia Ferrier, daughter of Johan Ferrier, the last governor and first president of Suriname and Eugenie Lionarons. She studied to become a teacher in child- care in The Netherlands. She married Drs. Donald McLeod who later on was confirmed by oath as Ambassador of Suriname in Venezuela, Belgium and the United States of America. In Suriname she studied the Dutch language. and teacher in Dutch on a secondary school in Paramaribo. She always knew how to fascinate her students by her way of telling about the history of Suriname.

When teaching, she would promise the kids that if they finished their work on time, the last minutes of class would be spent on her storytelling. In this way she motivated her students and the students in their turn encouraged her to become a writer.

The title of her first novel “‘The cost of sugar’ (Hoe duur was de suiker) arose during a Dutch course when the component poetry was discussed, from a poem of Rudie Bedacht: “Colonial times”;

Colonial times The sugar mills revolved for Europe in dust of the plantations dried your tears on dark brothers from Africa And the whips louder proclaimed the sanctuary of Christian Europe; pain and patience and how heroic naked the black skin can be bodies without destination where on the rich wrote the sad history of this country so we can realize how expensive the sugar can be

In 1998 as an ambassador’s wife in Belgium, McLeod spent all of her time to carry out Suriname in a worthy way. In that time there wasn’t much information available about Suriname in Belgium. With the project ‘Open book for Suriname’ which was an initiative of the Belgian ministry of Development Cooperation, she started collecting books for Suriname by means of programs like cook lessons , storytelling, dance and theater and by giving information about Suriname.

She also spent her time in Belgium spitting through the record office in The Hague.

The movie ‘The cost of sugar’ based on McLeod’s first novel will premiere on the 25th of September this year when it will open the 33rd Netherlands Film Festival . The story is about two Jewish stepsisters and their slaves.

It takes place in the period of 1765 to 1778.

The director of the movie changed the story a little. The movie is about a woman, slave master and her slave who came in the favor of her master with all its consequences. 2013 marks the 150th anniversary of the abolition of slavery in the former Dutch colony of Suriname.

The writer has felt a strong bond with Suriname from that moment on, which bond she still feels today.. This bond inspired her to write successful novels like ‘Goodbye Merodia’, ‘The Free Negress’, ‘Two Times Marienburg’, ‘Memories of Marienburg’ and ‘The cost of sugar’. McLeod says that she feels this is something she needs to do for the Surinamese community, it is her calling.

She owes a great part of her success to the fact that she always adequately conducts research.

The inspiration for this historic novel about the sugar culture in the 18th century, dates from 1984 when she was tarried in Washington as ambassador’s wife. She met a Jewish couple. The woman was homesick and so she and Cynthia became friends.

McLeod told her about the Jewish people living in Suriname and that they were the first settlers. They didn’t come to make money and leave again; they really felt affinity for Suriname. They settled at the shore of the Suriname River, the Jewish savannah.

The Jewish settlers then integrated into the Surinamese community. To empower her story McLeod says “ If you shake long enough on a genealogical tree of a Surinamese, there will be Jew in it.”

With the profits of her book sale McLeod has built a boat that has taken 5000 sixth graders on an educational tour to visit former plantations in Suriname. McLeod is content and very proud of the Surinamese people. “We

22 Carifesta XI Magazine

are an example”, she says with glittering eyes.

“We are all minorities, there isn’t a dominant group. The schools are the best catalytics, they all sit together with each other in the classrooms. Muslims, Christians or Hindustani’s, we all congratulate each other on special days and we visit each other’s homes.”

Movie

Carifesta XI Magazine 23

Micle Fung Integration through culinary delights Micle Fung, one of the sons of the last group of Chinese immigrants who came to Suriname as a contract worker at Marienburg, now makes the most delicious dishes from a combination of spices and products from Hong Kong and local products from Suriname. This is the ultimate form of integration through culinary delights.

It took us a while to get Fung on the phone because the work pace and pressure within his Soeng Ngie enterprise is very high. But when we finally got him on the phone, the spontaneous and enthusiastic entrepreneur invited the crew of the Carifesta XI magazine to come by and taste one of his latest culinary experiments. An experience we all looked forward to.

When we arrived, Fung was already waiting for us in his chef’s uniform and warmly welcomed us with the words “Please, feel at home”. Home; a garden like in fairytales with Thai and Chinese influences, an array of Surinamese species, where you can feel at ease and smell the nature. Many cooks would envy his two wonderful outdoor kitchens, a true feast for the eye.

While preparing the meal, our host tells us about his life and about the preparation of his dishes. One of the dishes is a traditional vegetable dish with large shrimps, served with products from his own shop. Another surprisingly tasteful dish is his latest experiment: Noodles with smoked red herring. It seems like a strange combination at first, but after the first bites the sighs of delight are clearly audible. The tasty dish has a soft, salty taste that makes you long for more.

According to our chef-cook the soft taste comes from the choice of noodles. When everone finished their meal, our host starts piling disposable trays with food for his guests and he promised to invite them for his next cooking session: Fried rice with klippfish. Who is this special man?

From contractor to entrepreneur Fung’s father Fung You Kee came in 1925 as a Chinese contract worker to Suriname to work in Marienburg – the district Commewijne. After his contract expired in 1939 he registered his sole proprietorship at the Chamber of Commerce: “Toko Broeng”, where he sold Asiatic products such as soap and rum.

In that same year he moved to Paramaribo where he rented a commercial building from a big import company called Bettencourt and started as watchmaker and goldsmith with his cousin Soeng Ngie. Later on he bought this building.

24 Carifesta XI Magazine

Fung Youkee married the Surinamese Estelle Lau So Fat and they had 4 sons and 3 daughters, of which Micle Fung is the youngest son.

A satisfied person is a happy person Father Fung You Kee raised his children very strictly. He sometimes was quite hard-handed. “But this was sometimes really necessary”, admits Fung laughing when he remembers his mischief as a child. As a kid, he was quite a rascal. His father wanted Fung and his brotherss to go to school until the sixth grade of primary school, but at the insistence of their mother Fung was allowed to finish secondary school.

Like many women in that time the girls could go to training college to become a teacher.

Mother Estelle was a good-looking woman with a positive attitude. She often said: “Money is not everything, just make sure that you live well with each other because a satisfied person is a happy person”.

After a while the store also started importing products from Hong Kong. Every day after school the boys had to work in the store to learn the intricacies of the business. By working hard and offering a good service soon Soeng Ngie became one of the largest import companies of Asiatic products in Suriname.

The workers, and the porters in particular had to work very hard because back then everything was done manually and the packages were a lot heavier than they are nowadays. The import,specifically from Hong Kong expanded to China, Indonesia and Taiwan.

Experimenting in the kitchen Fung, who is now running the company with his brother, traveled a lot with his father. He was urged to pay good attention so he was able to learn as much as he could. When his father got samples from abroad these items first needed to be tested. Young Fung always had to help his father so he could learn how to cook.

These sample tests became a true food festival.

Family and friends were invited to test and approve the dishes. Only when a product was approved they would decide to import it.

Father Fung You Kee always encouraged his youngest son with the words: “Always take good care of your hands and feet, because they are the tools to make money.” He also said: “You must be able to do everything; you must be in the position to help your wife.”

Apart from the import, Fung also has success with his popular cooking show ‘Soeng Ngie’s kitchen secrets’. He always films his television program from another location in the backwoods of Suriname. Fung is at ease in the jungle of Suriname because that’s where he can enjoy some of his hobbies like haunting, fishing and dancing. The cooking shows are available on DVD for those who missed it on air. They are also very popuplar amongst the diaspora in The Netherlands.

The intent of the show is to promote Suriname in an alternative way, namely with a focus on the Chinese cuisine in Suriname.

Culinary

CULTURE

An impression of Soeng Ngie’s artistic garden

A store and cooking show aren’t the only things on the Fung’s plate. Every year around Christmas he organizes a show on the family ranch where he pampers the less fortunate with performances by music artists and of course with terrific cookery.

Despite upcoming competition Fung sees a bright future ahead. It is hard work, but he is happy that his son is interested in the family business. Fung also has a daughter who is a graduated economist, so continuation of the company is guaranteed. Fung is a satisfied person!

Carifesta XI Magazine 25

循 義 公 司

N.V. SOENG NGIE & CO . A: WATERKANT 84-86 . P: 472031/422751 . E: NV@SOENGCO.COM SOENG NGIE’S ORIENTAL MARKET . A: HK WILHELMINA-/DAVID SIMONSSTRAAT 85 . P: 550140/550144 . W: WWW.SOENGCO.COM

26 Carifesta XI Magazine

A product of

Carifesta XI Magazine 27

Dance: Shaolin Kung Fu

Performance art

Closing Pre Carifesta

Haiti- Tabou Combo 28 Carifesta XI Magazine

Performance art

Craft by Bongo Charlie

CARIFESTA XI IMPRESSIONS

Three-dimensional paintings George Struikelblok - Body painted dancers perform a beautiful choreography of dance and movement

Jamaica- The Caribbean. A L’Acadco Experience Carifesta XI Magazine 29

Endermo Linger Draws a comparison with nature As one of the coordinators of the Carifesta Youth Village, responsible for the Green Area, the Knowledge Area and the Sports Area, Linger focuses on the ‘green’ element. He wants to raise awareness amongst youth to live a healthier life, to gain knowledge and to do everything in their power to be subservient to their country.

Green Area The focus in the green areas is on environment and health.

Lingers says: “We use nature to explain the importance of the environment and health. With our focus on green we want to raise awareness of a healthy lifestyle and show how one can motivate the youth to live healthier and be more active in sport”. They approach various companies such as the ones specialized in sun energy with regard to saving.

Another topic is how to stop environmental pollution; less gas, so use the bike.

Knowledge Area In this Area children can follow a variety of different workshops. One of the workshops provided is a workshop on how to become a good DJ and children are taught to use a DJ set. In the area of art the creativity of the youth will be stimulated and the area will focus on making the youth more aware about art.

Sports Area The focus of the Sports Area is to stimulate sport activities and living a healthy lifestyle.There will also be representatives from different institutes present at the Willebrod Axwijk Sports Center (SOSIS) to provide more information and respond to questions about a healthy lifestyle and how to counteract environmental pollution.

Linger is 22 years old and aims to be an ICT expert in the area of networking. At the moment he voluntarily shares his knowledge and is working with the goal to pay for his 5 year ICT study at Jansen and Partners institute. Linger says: “I want to be the best father for my children and the best husband for my wife, but in order to do that I need to have knowledge.” The youth has to do something for its country and not ask what its country can do for them.

Make your parents proud and then they will be more willing to do things for you.’

Elvira Lens Convinced of the success of the Youth Village When you enter the Youth Village office, you will see a strongly motivated team at work. On each floor you will find enthusiastic young people who are busy with their tasks and they all have the same goal and that is to make the Youth Village a huge success. If this is our future of tomorrow, there is no doubting the development and successes of the country and its people.

Youth Village is a place where young people from 5 tot 30 years old can come together to exchange creative ideas and show what they got in the area of dance, culture, music and more. This plan is prepared by the CARICOM Youth Ambassadors. They decided to focus on youth because engagement of youth lacked in the Background:: Painting of Robbert Enfield

30 Carifesta XI Magazine

CULTURE

Youth Focus The people behind Youth Village

Luciano Wijdenbosch Important to screen texts Expose Stage At the expose stage youngsters get the opportunity to show their talents in fashion, dance and music. There are groups from various countries in the Caribbean that auditioned. Talents who didn’t have the possibility to come to audition got another opportunity to show what they got.

“It is very important to know what kind of texts the youth are presented with”, says Luciano Wijdenbosch.

That is why we talk a lot with the Surinamese entertainers and watch what they say in their Hip Hop songs. In this phase of their life we need to watch negative input and we need to ensure that they are raised with positive and constructive messages. previous Carifesta events. The entire youth focus consists of: Youth Village, entertainment and liaisons. The organization runs very smoothly especially with regard to the Big Stage, the Exposure Stage, the Green Area, the Food Court and the projects for children between 5 and 13 years.

The Big Stage Area The Big Stage Area has an international youth stage.

The best youth artists from Suriname and abroad will get the opportunity to present their talents and skills to the rest of the youth. DJ’s from Suriname and brass bands will also perform.

Elvira Lens is a busy bee. She is project manager at the Surinamese Associations of Accountants and she is nascent accountant. She finished her study English reading, writing and speech at the IOL institute and she served on a lot of youth organizations. She also had a key role in the organization in charge of presetting the Carifesta Youth Village to the Caribbean and the rest of the world. Lens is convinced of the success of the Youth Village. The Youth Village is here to motivate young people and to activate and inspire to actively participate in youth related activities in Suriname.

Luciano Wijdenbosch, 26 year, is charged with work related to the Expose Stage and the Big Stage Area.

The tasks of the student of the Polytechnic College consists of identifying groups with potential and consulting them in the concept-program how they can best present their works and efforts. He does this for the Surinamese groups as well as the foreign groups.

Wijdenbosch finds it interesting to see the groups at work in preparation. He says: “Overall everything went fine because all these groups were very enthusiastic to participate.”

Carifesta XI Magazine 31

DEVELOPMENT

Stimulating Indigenous youth to move forward Ryan Blanca: a young native entrepreneur with the objective to motivate and coach the native youth to climb the social ladder. His focus is not on the youth living in the capital Paramaribo, but the youth in the backwoods of Suriname, mainly the Marowijne area at Wanekreek, in the direction of Galibi.

Blanca’s intrest often goes to the backwoods because of his native father from Marowijne and because of his involvement in native development organizations. As a child in the native village, Blanca met some small-scale loggers who, apart from the traditional axes, all used chainsaws from the brand STIHL. His first picture with a STIHL dates back to 1976, he then posed with the new STIHL 070 in Alphons village in Marowijne.

“Back then when someone mentioned STIHL, as kids we knew exactly what they were talking about.”

Hence arose his passion to become a STIHL-entrepreneur.

To stimulate the youth, he visits the boys in the district Marowijne and also in West Suriname and teaches them the tricks of the trade. He also makes it possible for them to come and work in his company. “The turnover is high because they have to work hard. I am not only their boss but also a father- figure”, says the entrepreneur. The boys aren’t used to this kind of work so most of them don’t work for him for long periods.

Some of them also quit the study and return to their village to pick up

32 Carifesta XI Magazine

their indigenous existence.

Blanca can partly understand them.

Indigenous are proud people. Also, life in the backwoods is very different. But more importantly, Indigenous are people used to their natural surroundings. A native does not hunt to store his foods for months. The native hunts and goes fishing for what he needs. When everything has been used, he goes back to get more. It is a very different lifestyle and some are content with it. But the world is changing.

Blanca continues his mission, because the traditional lifestyle no longer suffices the changing society. That is why the Indigenous are less visible on the social ladder.

Although there certainly is potential, this potential needs to be developed. Blanca hopes young people can see him as a role model of what you can achieve through hard work and a change of attitude.

At the moment 4 boys from Alfons village are working for Blanca. Even if they decide this kind of life is not for them, Blanca will still continue his activities. He wants to increase the awareness among natives and show them it is indeed possible to become a top-entrepreneur and get more out of themselves.

How it all started “During my study in Amsterdam I volunteered since 1996 for the Majuri Foundation. Majuri was an organization in Amsterdam for natives focused on the support of education in native villages in Suriname.

From when I moved to The Netherlands until 2002, I would go to Suriname annually to build a school, set up libraries, help buying a school boat etc. Every time I would go into the backwoods I saw machinery of the brand STIHL. I spoke to the users of these machines and asked them for the prices. I found out that there was one monopolistic provider. Right then and there I began to see the possibilities for entering this market by selling used STIHL chainsaws and so called aftermarket accessories. During my first ‘work vacation’ within 4 weeks all the STIHL products were completely sold out.

Guiana Machinery and Parts NV After my second work vacation I wanted to travel to Suriname twice a year, but that wasn’t possible.

My boss in The Netherlands saw no reason to offer me this opportunity. This put me in a position where I had to make a decision; to either continue with my new business or stay in The Netherlands. As if it was meant to be, soon after, I was made aware of the organization IntEnt in The Hague- The Netherlands.

This organization supports and trains starting entrepreneurs. The concept of guiding starters from the idea to the actual start-up appealed to me. I went to to IntEnt in the Netherlands and once I was in Suriname I went to IntEnt Suriname.

Success!

This is my

I now have my own forestry tools company IntEnt Suriname for: Training in entrepreneurial skills Assistance with a business plan Personal coaching

Your decision

For more information Call or mail us for an appointment Telephone: +597 472 825 Mail: info@intent-suriname.com

Do you also want to start an own company?

Contact IntEnt Suriname and..

Let’s get started!

IntEnt Suriname is an independent organization with the objective to train, guide and coach starting and expanding entrepreneurs. They too are increasingly focusing on young people who want to start a business.

Carifesta XI Magazine 33

Michael Watson

Create healthy environments through sport To achieve development it is important to take the voices of youth into consideration and it is even more important to invest in the youth. This must have been the angle of incidence of the organization of the Carifesta Youth Village when they created the ‘krutu area’; a place for discussions about CARICOM related subjects.

Michael Watson, the permanent secretary of Sport of the Ministry of Sports and Youth Affairs in Suriname, was also asked to act as a guest speaker at one of these debates. He was asked to discuss Environment and Health.

Because of the fact that both Environment and Health are two very wide subjects, he decided to address these subjects from a point of view related to sport. Environment is much more than the place you live in, it is also the people you are involved with and more. And health is much more than whether you are sick or not. It is also about your way of living.

Furthermore a healthy community creates a wealthy community, because the productivity will increase.

Watson talked about the leading causes of death in the Caribbean in 2004. Heart disease, cancer, violence, diabetes and stroke were the most common causes of death.

Studies have shown that all these causes of death can be reduced by a healthier lifestyle.

In the case of violence, police reports from Jamaica from 2008 indicated that the crime rate in Jamaica was the lowest during the Olympics in Beijing on days that the Jamaican athletes had to compete. This clearly shows that sports can also help lower violence.

Powered by:

Sport perience 34 Carifesta XI Magazine

With the Declaration of Port of SpainUniting to stop epidemic of chronic non communicable deceases (2007), the declaration of Paramaribo - eye on the future of youth in the Caribbean (2010) and the eye on the future: Investing in youth now for tomorrow’s community (2010) the head of government of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) agreed that there is a lot that has to be done to effectively invest in the youth and in a healthy society.

Suriname holds the CARICOM portfolio for Community Development and Cultural Cooperation, including Culture, Gender, Youth and Sport. The Government of Suriname recognizes the importance of Physical Activity, Physical Education and Sport as instruments for development and puts regional integration very high on the agenda through this portfolio. The Surinamese policymakers are of the opinion that sport must be connected with other sectors in the Community; sport and education, sport and health, sport and labor, sport and community development and sport and environment. This all under the guise of Sport is more than sport. The specific results of sports are healthy citizens, more talents and participation in top sport events, both regional and global. In the context of this all the Regional Sports Academy (RSA) was established.

The RSA focuses on education, talent development, high performance, research, sport tourism and sport training camps. The vision of the RSA is to be a global leader in sport education and talent development, providing unique opportunities for enhancing capacity of people and building pride through achievements in the true spirit of the Caribbean vibe.

Its mission is to promote health, wellness and sustainable development for all through sport and education with the main purpose of developing successful athletes who bring pride to the region through their performances on the word stage. Competent sport students who contribute to the development of people and communities in the region through the application of sound pedagogical principles and robust research and healthy communities that are mobilized through meaningful and organized sport, recreation and physical activities.

The costs for a 9 month program are 840 US dollars for local students and 4600 US dollars for foreign students and this includes housing.

In April of this year Sacha Irons of Jamaica became the first foreign student of the RSA. She got a full scholarship. 24 other students also attend the academy this year with a full-scholar ship.

DEVELOPMENT

Eliza Carter

The largest academic medical centre of the region; “creating a healing feeling in a professional environment”

Health

Carter has a close bond with the country Suriname. As a little girl she came from Guyana to Suriname with her mother, spending her youth here. She has never experienced any of the emotions she feels here in Suriname, in any other country, because to her Suriname is the home she will always want to return to. Carter studied nursing in Surina-

me followed by many other nursing-related studies in The Netherlands. She subsequently studied at the Bradford University in Great Britain and went to the NIMVAS in Utrecht- The Netherlands and achieved the title Masters of Business Administration (MBA).

“

Nothing will stop us.

We will build this country with our own financial resources combined with our decisiveness and manpower.

“

Eliza Carter was confronted with the most basic needs of the people of her beloved country Suriname not being met. At that moment she knew she had to come back and address this need. This independent businesswoman, who is very dominant and results-oriented in her work, has her goals sets: the largest academic medical center of the region.

The 58 year old Carter, mother of one daughter and grandmother of two grandchildren sits behind her desk. Her eagle eyes reveal how purposefully she is heading towards her goal which is the building of a hospital in the district Wanica to meet the needs of the less fortunate in Suriname in the area of healthcare. Carter says: “It will not be just a hospital but a huge academic medical center which will meet the demand of the people and professionals who will be working there.” It is important that people experience a healing feeling in a professional environment.

This will be taken into consideration and incorporated in the building and its surroundings.

Manager Surgery Operating Rooms and manager of the Health Department who is responsible for behavioral health and public health are just a few of the key positions in which she excelled.

She was responsible for the financial strategy and controlling the information technology and critical services. She was responsible for the construction of the Erasmus Medical Center in Rotterdam-The Netherlands; a health and hospital complex of the 21st century, the largest construction

project of The Netherlands, in 2005. As one of the most experienced board members, she led the University Medical Centers as the first black female manager. She knows exactly what to do to get things done and how to solve logistic problems and address a wide range of other issues. Carter is determined to set up this hospital and to contribute to the adjustment of the care system. “Cases should be addressed simultaneously” she says. “Create new possibilities and make use of the possibilities you already have.” She shuts out all negativity. Money should not be a problem. There is more than enough money in the world.

“Nothing will stop us. We will build this country with our own financial resources, combined with our decisiveness and manpower.

Of course there will be resistance but we will not go out of the way for that. We have a goal and that is to offer good healthcare for the less fortunate in Suriname and the whole region” says board member and businesswoman Carter.

Carifesta XI Magazine 35

Redesigning Open Air Fort New Amsterdam Museum;

a perfect example of Culture for Development During Carifesta XI the traditions and customs of the different populations in Suriname were exposed at the Open Air Museum Fort New Amsterdam in the district Commewijne. This museum had temporary changed its name to the Carifesta Traditional Village and visitors could experience and learn more about the lifestyle and traditions of the Maroon, Indian, Creole, Javanese and Indigenous people in Suriname. But also other countries had the opportunity to carry out their cultures and traditions at the village.

Sari Kasanpawiro, in her community better known as ‘auntie Sari’, was one of the coordinators of the Traditional Village. She was responsible for the schedule and for giving the other countries a place for their activities.

Sari Kasanpawiro

Auntie Sari also one of the Pioneers of the former Surinamese Museum Fort Zeelandia in Paramaribo has now agreed to help the Open Air Museum Fort New Amsterdam with the fitment of their traditional Javanese home by delivering attributes. As landmark in the history of Suriname, the Open Air Museum Fort New Amsterdam is special cultural heritage. It is the physical place where two rivers use to come together. Its place in history justifies the role as the center of awareness and knowledge of Surinamese unity. As Open Air Museum it is intended for Fort New Amsterdam to also become the center of education and leisure. Renovation and redesigning is therefore very important. The redesigning of the museum will also bring economic and social benefits for the community of Commewijne. This is a perfect example of culture for development.

Traditional village attracts excursionists According to Sari the Open Air Museum Fort New Amsterdam was the perfect location for the traditional village because prior to Carifesta, the management of the Open Air museum had already decided to redesign the museum into a permanent exposition of the historic traditional homes of the Maroons, Indians, Creoles,Javanese and Indigenous people along with all their traditional attributes. At the start of the Carifesta Traditional Village on august 17th only the homes of the Indian and Maroon people were completely build, but that was creatively solved by giving different workshops like the traditional Javanese basket weaving workshop, dance workshops and many more. The mornings were filled with all kinds of traditional games for the youth. The traditional village mostly attracted excursionists.

Propagating culture to learn from each other Auntie Sari is very passionate in propagating the Javanese culture and thinks people from other cul-

36 Carifesta XI Magazine

tures should do the same. We can all learn from the qualities of each other’s cultures in order to develop as one peaceful and loving nation.

Sari Kasanpawiro thinks it is essential to inform other cultures about their own culture and to learn from the beauty of other cultures in order to respect each other’s habits and live in peace next to each other. She also finds it very important that all populations keep their traditions and pass it on to their youth, because they have to know about their culture and history and give it a place in their future. “If you want to know who you really are, you have to know where you’re coming from”.

Suriname sets an example in a multicultural society where everyone is able and free to keep their traditions.

Foundation Sana Budaya as base of the Javanese culture Kasanpawiro is very closely involved with the memorial foundation of Javanese immigration in Suriname, also known as Sana Budaya. The North East Community Festival at Sana Budaya is one of the many things she helped organize to promote the Javanese culture. The objective of this festival was to create awareness of their culture amongst people from other cultures. So it was not specific for Javanese people. During this festival they simulated Javanese weddings, baby showers and circumcisions. They made traditional Javanese food and demonstrated some typical classical dances. Sari herself was an traditional dancer in her younger years. She even studied classical dance in Indonesia.

“The Javanese classical dance should be maintained, but it also has to develop by adding elements from traditional dances from other cultures” she says.

Kasanpawiro is clear about the role that the memorial foundation of Javanese immigration has to take in the Surinamese community. “The foundation has to be the base of everything that involves the Javanese culture. If someone wants to know something about Java, that information has to be available at Sana Budaya.” she says.

The Indonesian Embassy dance group

Craft from Haiti

Performance art

Performance art

CARIFESTA XI IMPRESSIONS

Performance art

Carifesta XI Magazine 37

THE POWER OF FABRIC SOFTENER

38 Carifesta XI Magazine

Economy Suriname Chamber of Commerce and Industry

DEVELOPMENT

Invests in global and national developments The headquarters of the Chamber of Commerce and Industry Suriname (KKF) was one of the central points at the Carifesta XI. Thousands of people visited the GRAND CENTRAL MARKET which featured culture, cuisine and development of the Caribbean at one big vibrant marketplace.

“The Surinamese Chamber of Commerce is an organization committed to serve the business community of Suriname” says KKF Chairman Henk Naarendorp.

development of businesses in Suriname. Prya mentioned some of the most important partners of the Chamber in their mission of development.

Priya Soechitram, legal person at the Chamber, agrees.

“The Chamber of Commerce is a very lively organization where no single day is the same. Apart from managing the Trade Registry, procuring certificates of origin for exporters, running a One Stop Window, we in general take care, foster the interests of the business community and above all also represent this community.”

Suriname Business Forum The Chamber is one of the stakeholders in the board of the Suriname Business Forum (SBF). Besides the Chamber, the board of SBF further consists of representatives of other business organizations, labor unions and NGO representation and the Anton de Kom University of Suriname. SBF is a platform for permanent dialogue between the Public and Private Sector to create in consensus the appropriate environment for strengthening and developing the local private sector.

The Board under the leadership of Mr. Naarendorp is currently in the process of adjusting the vision and mission of the Chamber to global and national developments in an interactive process involving the relevant national and international surroundings of Suriname’s local Private Sector. Everybody in and around the Chamber is involved in this process. Adjusting the mission and the vision is a high priority for the KKF. The Chamber has many partners who contribute to the

Tripartite Consultation The Tripartite Consultation (TC) serves as a sounding board for the Head of State concerning matters of importance in the social economic development in Suriname. It consists of representatives of the labor unions, business organizations including the Chamber and members of the Council of Ministers.

Most importantly this body

has been advising the Head of State on the realization of a realistic and up to date social security system for Suriname (including general health care, general pension on retirement, minimum wage etc).

STS, Suriname Tourism Foundation With the Ministry of Transport, Communication and Tourism, the Chamber is also co-founder of the Suriname Tourism Foundation. The intent is to bring together the public and private sector in order to bolster development to the tourism industry. The Suriname Tourism Foundation coordinates and monitors the tourism industry.

also offered to the agricultural sector in cooperation with the Ministry of Agriculture.

The training for custom brokers is very popular and is in big demand at import and export companies.

Trade Fair Annually, in November, the Chamber organizes a trade fair where many Surinamese look forward to. Companies release their new products—varying from cuisine, clothing, crafts to even high technological products. Thousands of people visit this trade fair festivity every year to network and enjoy what is offered.

Trade missions The Chamber organizes on a regular basis foreign trade missions to contribute to the process of integration of the Surinamese economy regionally as well as globally. On a constant basis barriers to these processes are identified and solutions proposed and implemented.

Training The business startup training is one of the core activities of the Chamber. This training is Carifesta XI Magazine 39

40 Carifesta XI Magazine

DEVELOPMENT

John Defares

The Port of Suriname as role model for the region

The flourishing economy in the late fifties and early sixties resulted in moving from the then KNSM pier (which acted as commercial port) to the current location. However, it soon became clear that in order to adequately accommodate the increasingly growing economy a second rehabilitation would be necessary. Therefore a request for funds for this second rehabilitation was made to the European Union. The approval of this request proved to be a lengthy process and the port management therefore decided to start the process of the rehabilitation funded by its own resources, after a pre-visibility study conducted by Wilfred Lie A Len. From 2000 to 2003 a feasibility study was conducted because the new port, which was focused on loading and unloading of cargo, was obsolete. Nobody wanted to take on what seemed to be the impossible task of being the managing director of the new port. Between 1994 and 1998 Guno Castelen fulfilled this position after spending a year in Belgium to complete his Port Management study.

Transport

John Defares was the director of N.V. Havenbeheer from January 15th 2001 – December 31st 2011. Under his management the new port transformed from a simple port to a modern one that is considered the best port of the Caribbean. Defares said: “The success is largely due to the Public Private Partnership (PPP), but also to the infrastructure and the competent people working at the port. I also have to mention Captain Remy Vijzelman as an indispensible part of the successful rehabilitation of the port.

Because without his courage to believe and invest in us, none of this would have been made possible.”

In 1995 approximately 12.000 containers were unloaded.

In 2000 this number grew to 18.000 and in 2005 it doubled to 36.000. The European Union projected this figure would double in 2013, but due to the upgrades implemented they made the financial sources available in 2006. In January 2010 the new port had to take a loan from a consortium of banks consisting of Hakrinbank, DSB and RBTT to finalize the rehabilitation. The loan of 20 million Dutch guilders, which was applied for in 1995, was far from sufficient.

After a lot of hard work, the new port was completed in April 2009.

All hard work paid of in 2011 when the new port was awarded for the first time for being the best port of the Caribbean in Bridgetown, Barbados by the Caribbean Shipping Agencies. The branch organizations CSA also have members from outside the Caribbean like Colombia, Panama, Costa Rica and ports from the United States of America like Houston, Miami, Jacksonville and Tampa. In 2012 Suriname won this award for the second year in a row.

With a mooring facility of 520 meters the new port can simultaneously accommodate four ships of approximately 100 meters. Nowadays, ships can be unloaded within 12 hours. This happens nowhere else in the region. Defares says: “You can imagine how proud I am with these awards if you consider which ports participated. An absolute highlight and crown on the work that has been done throughout the years. The fact that we can compete with all these countries is a victory on its own. Our port is a role model for the region, which is great!”

Facts

Located in the heart of Paramaribo, Suriname, along the Suriname river approximately 43,5 kilometer (21 sea miles) away from the mouth (light buoy) and the Atlantic Ocean, is the new port, the main port in Parmaribo for import and export to and from Suriname. The port also process cargo for Guyana and French Guyana on a small scale.

Surface the New Port 18.5 ha with a quay of 600 meters March 11th 1971 Deed passed of N.V. Port management as corporation July 25th 1995 roads authority established, but operational after 2001 2012 office of UNDP on drugs and crime established Annual throughput average 97.000 TEU: Twenty feet Equivalent Unit (1 TEU is a container of 20 feet) and 330.000 freight ton bulk Annual throughput Oil jetty average 211.000 metric ton liquid bulk.

Approximately 1000 vessels and coasters and 100 tankers use the New Port Terminal an oil jetty every year.

Carifesta XI Magazine 41

- Advertorial -

Staatsolie Maatschappij Suriname N.V.

Building a Sustainable Energy Future

Staatsolie Maatschappij Suriname N.V. is a state-owned company founded on 13 December 1980. The company’s commercial involvement extends to exploration; drilling; production and

behalf of the State in assessing Suriname’s offshore hydrocarbon petroleum contracts and monitoring execution of these contracts.

Based on its strategic long-term plan, Vision 2020, Staatsolie is transforming into an integrated and sustainable energy company.

42 Carifesta XI Magazine

Our vision Staatsolie’s Vision 2020 is geared towards a sustainable energy implementation strategy for Vision 2020 currently consists of three plateaus: ‘Foundation for Transition & Growth’ (2013-2016);

‘Transition’ (2016-2020); and ‘Expansive Growth’ (2020-2025). In the planned period 2013-2016, the focus will be on exploration and production.

Our Performances In order to increase the oil reserves several exploration projects are executed simultaneously onshore, near shore and offshore.

Onshore and near shore exploration is being carried out by Staatsolie and its subsidiary Paradise Oil Company. Offshore exploration is being carried out by international oil companies under production sharing contracts with Staatsolie.

local market with quality products, including diesel and gasoline.

Construction started in February 2012 and completion is

of Wanica. With a processing capacity of 7,350 barrels per day, the

will make Staatsolie the major supplier of diesel and gasoline in Suriname.

Staatsolie had been investigating possibilities for the production of ethanol from sugar cane. From 2010 to 2012, a pilot project was carried out. Based on the results of the pilot, which were above expectations, Staatsolie will now implement the large-scale commercial production of ethanol.

Staatsolie operates a 28 megawatt thermal power plant, delivering the generated electrical power to the national power company for further distribution into the grid. Expansion of the power plant to 62 megawatt is underway and scheduled for

Most of these products are sold locally, while the surplus is exported to countries in the Caribbean. Staatsolie is also a well-known supplier of bunkering services to national and international customers.

The economic indices showing steady growth are proof of

Corporate Citizenship Contribution to community development is an important pillar of Staatsolie’s Vision 2020. The company demonstrates its corporate

– Calcutta, Tambaredjo and Tambaredjo North-West – produce a total of approximately 16,000 barrels of oil per day. Since 2006, Staatsolie has introduced wetland operations in two production the construction of dams and waterways.

amounted to US$ 1.047 billion. In the 2009-2013 strategic planning period, an investment program of US$ 1.3 billion is being carried out.

Staatsolie’s business processes are carried out in accordance with ISO 9001:2008 quality management system. Likewise prudent industry standards and practices are implemented in order to maintain a safe and healthy work environment. Projects are carried out in accordance with environmental guidelines, rules and regulations.

Resulting from the belief that people are key to the company’s success, Human Resource development is a vital aspect of Staatsolie’s business practices.

Energy future product portfolio and to guarantee a sustainable energy future.

citizenship by contributing to a wide range of community projects in education, culture, sports, health, safety, environment and projects for the underprivileged. The Staatsolie Foundation for Community Development supports sustainable projects in the community.

Agent for the State Staatsolie is the agent for the State with respect to the petroleum industry. In this capacity the company is responsible for assessing international oil companies, negotiating petroleum contracts and monitoring the execution of these contracts. Open blocks are made available through competitive bidding rounds personal, or direct negotiations. International oil companies operating in Suriname include Apache Corporation, Inpex, Murphy Oil, Kosmos Energy, Tullow Oil, Statoil and PETRONAS.

www.staatsolie.com

Carifesta XI Magazine 43

Dilipkoemar Rudi Sardjoe with his daughter Warsha, vice president of Rudisa Holding NV

Dilip Sardjoe

Economy

“Invest in people: the key to success!�

44 Carifesta XI Magazine

Dilip Sardjoe is the most prosperous entrepreneur of Suriname.

He is the owner of 28 companies located in Suriname and the region through which he employs around 1200 people. He not only contributes to the development of Suriname through the private industrial sector, but also as a politician and sports director.

Sardjoe indicates that he was able to grow and succeed in his businesses, not because he came from money, but through adhering to specific quality standards and values he set for himself. And although he started very small, his businesses constantly grew because he was ambitious and willing to work hard and meet the high standards he set for himself.

According to Sardjoe people feel they never have enough success, they always want more. Sardjoe very consciously choses not to use any of the modern gadgets or tools for communication. He feels it is important to keep his brain constantly active and therefore relies on his own capa-

DEVELOPMENT

“The sky is the limit”

the activities are considered inferior.

cities and simply uses his memory as his agenda for all his social and business related appointments and meetings.

Not employees but co-workers According to Sardjoe his very loyal, professional and customer oriented personnel is mainly responsible for his success and he stresses the fact that he prefers the word ‘co-workers’ to the word ‘employees’.

It is important that his co-workers feel as if they are as much a part of the company as Sardjoe himself. He therefore ensures that his co-workers can always reach him, he operates in a transparent manner and if it is necessary he will take the mop or broom to do the cleaning. None of

Entrepreneurs must invest in their co-workers and give clear guidelines. The success of this way of working is confirmed by Alirio Polsbroek. Polsbroek is the Editor in Chief of Sardjoe’s newspaper ‘Times of Suriname’. He has been employed by Sardjoe for more than 7 years and experiences their working relationship as very positive and productive. The co-workers are provided with as much freedom and responsibility as possible in their jobs, making every manager responsible for their own losses and profits.

Of course the entrepreneur clearly indicates in which direction he wants to go with his companies and he expects the right discipline from his co-workers to make it happen.

If they can’t meet the expectations, they don’t fit in the company.

Various social activities are organized annually for the co-workers as a token of appreciation for their efforts and to promote the team spirit. In 2012 Sardjoe offered all the co-workers of his Rudisa beverages company who had been working for him for longer than 3 years and who had never been on an airplane before, a trip including accommodation to Curacao.

“As a businessman I am fortunate to be able to frequently travel by airplane, so I wanted my co-workers to have had that experience for at least once”, says Sardjoe. The social services at his companies are also well regulated.

Crossing borders Sardjoe was born and raised in Suriname and loves his country for its natural beauty and culinary diversity.

Surinamese people are typically very positive and optimistic people who like to enjoy

themselves and he is proud to be part of the Surinamese culture.

However, Suriname is rapidly proving to be too small for his many ambitions in life and Sardjoe is now exploring business opportunities in different countries in SouthAmerica, especially Brazil. The variety of the products he produces include, amongst others, soft drinks, juices, milk and cement.

With his intention to expand his business beyond the borders of Suriname he supports the proposal of the President and the Surinamese government to actively participate in opportunities offered by MERCOSUR (Mercado Comum do Sul, English: Southern Common Market).

Carifesta XI Magazine 45

Economy

In 2011 the Nana Resources Environmental Management System (NEMS) was nominated for the 1st Innovation award for SME’s in Suriname, and they came in second place.

Henk Naarendorp

Nanaresources Environmental Management System Mining our own business in an environmental way

46 Carifesta XI Magazine

NEMS is a system that includes policy with goals, requirements, accepted limitations, rules and guidelines documented in agreements, support measures and penalties and lastly also strategies to possess all the aspects related the concessions of Nana, from environment to health to safety.

NANA Resources, which stands for Naarendorp Natural Resources, was founded in 1992. Henk Naarendorp, managing director of Nana Resources,

wanted to start a company to consolidate his activities in such a way he could easily oversee all his operations. NANA Resources owns mining rights in concessions in the Sipaliwini district along the South-East border with French Guyana, also known as the South Benzdorp area.

Naarendorp, a chemist who has a background in the bauxite industry where he had the responsibility of looking after the affairs of the State, became the contact person for people operating in the gold industry in Suriname.

NANA Resources is a medium scale gold exploitation company. Their way of mining gold consists of

many processes that take place with the necessary knowhow and willingness to learn new methods.

Developing the system It’s impossible to imagine goldfields without rain and sun. This is also true for the often present small-scale miners or those who, as a result of an urge to survive, move to these areas. Nana also is confronted with this phenomenon at the concessions assigned to her by the government and on which Nana’s mining rights are applicable.

Nana, by trial and error, has found a way to exist with the small-scale miners at the concession.

The basis of a peaceful co-existence with small miners is respect and

DEVELOPMENT

understanding for each other’s needs and worlds.

But the fact remains that Nana must abide by the law and regulations of Suriname, in particular the ones that are applicable to mining. By trial and error Nana found a way to exist together with the small miners in the concession area.

In that context, the Nana Environmental Management System (NEMS) was developed with the moral and material support of international agencies like the InterAmerican Development Bank (IDB) and the World Wide Fund (WWF).

Objectives NEMS The Nana Environmental Management System has the following goals: • Environment: Decrease of infestation of the environment by small mining.

• Health: Improvement of health conditions for everyone in the concession area particularly with regard to mercury poisoning and malaria infection.

• Safety: Improvement of safety conditions for everyone working in the concession area.

Other aspects of NEMS • Before getting a permission to work in the concession area, a service contract has to be signed with Nana Resources.

• The entrepreneur who provides the services must be registered at the Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KKF).

• This entrepreneur also needs to have a legit residence permit (inapplicable to miners with the Surinamese nationality).

• All foreign workers must

be in the possession of a valid residence and work permit.

• The entrepreneur who provides the services must be registered and pay his taxes.

There are support measures included in the NEMS System for people in the industry who work responsibly and follow the guidelines.

There are also daunting measures for the ones that don’t follow the guidelines.

All guidelines and rules are included in a weather-resistant manual, which is used by the inspectors and auditors in the field. The texts are written in three languages: Dutch, Surinamese (Sranang Tongo) and Portugese. The whole is supported with clear examples and illustrations.

Carifesta XI Magazine 47

Suriname at the crossroad of CARICOM and UNASUR

Drs.C.A.F.Pigot

Vision 48 Carifesta XI Magazine

Introduction Suriname is situated on the north-eastern coast of South America and physically belongs to the main land of South America. Although not colonized by Spain or Portugal, the historic event of a military coup in 1980, has given Suriname since then some of the characteristics of the Latin-American countries that have developed strong military influence in political, economic and social life of these countries.

Suriname was colonized by West-European countries (England and the Netherlands) and as such it also carries the characteristics of the Caribbean namely: • a dualistic economic system inherited from the plantation economy with a modernized export oriented prime material sector (alumina, gold, timber, rice, crude oil, fish) and a traditional subsistence sector with some cash crops; • an ‘island character’ of being physically fairly isolated towards the neighbouring countries but with good and direct connections to the former colonizing country; • internal social segregation and sometimes internal isolation in the countries with various ethnic groups with their own cultural assets; • a recently political independent country (November 1975) that is struggling to get economic independence but alas with a structural shortage of development funds and high rates of unemployment especially among the youth as the historical outlet of outmigration towards the former mother country has come to an end.

This ambivalent situation has put Suriname for a long time in doubt about its long term development direction. It is only the last decades, mainly thanks to the opportunities and challenges of the globalization process, that in the discussion about our development direction our pluralistic society is less seen as an obstacle and more as an opportunity to establishing a peaceful , multi cultural and multi ethnic society with benefits for the country and as an example of tolerance to the world. The slogan of Carifesta XI “Culture for Development” fits perfectly in this new orientation. The more as it has been Caribbean scholars of the University of the West Indies who have been promoting ‘Culture’ as the fourth pillar for development.

DEVELOPMENT

Countries to which Suriname mainly exports to in CARICOM are: Guyana (petrol), Barbados (crude), Trinidad and Tobago (crude, detergents) and Jamaica (rice).

Countries from which Suriname predominantly imports are: Trinidad and Tobago (diesel, gasoline, cement, fertilizers, etc.), Guyana (sugar) and Jamaica (fodder).

Suriname and CARICOM The Caribbean Community and Common Market (CARICOM) was established on August 1st 1973 by the Treaty of Chaguaramas. CARICOM was the answer for efforts of regional integration of the Caribbean countries after the collapse of the British West Indies Federation in 1962. CARICOM has a more diverse significance than the predominant English speaking Federation had, especially with the membership of Dutch speaking Suriname on July 4th 1995 and of French speaking Haiti on July 3rd 2002. The primary focus of the CARICOM is widely seen in Suriname as deepening of the economic cooperation amongst the members by liberalising trade in goods, liberalizing services, the free movement of capital and skilled labour and the freedom to establish business enterprises anywhere in the Community.

All CARICOM member states are relative small countries with almost the same economic and social structure.

Just a few primary materials dominate their export (sugar, rum, rice, oil, bauxite) or heavy dependency on tourism.

Suriname’s export and import with the Caribbean countries has steadily increased but lacks structural complementarities towards these markets. So the dream to become the food basket of the Caribbean has still to be materialized.Thanks to the Revised Treaty the CARICOM now has the legal basis for the free movement of services within the CSME. These arrangements have made it possible for insurance companies, banks or engineers, architects, medical personnel and other self-employed service providers of any member state, to offer services throughout the CARICOM, free from nationality restrictions. As such now the Surinamese insurance company Assuria has a branch in Guyana. But to become successful major restructuring is still needed in the organization, as confirmed by the Heads of States.

Suriname and UNASUR The Constitutive Treaty of the Union of South American Nations was signed on May 23rd 2008 and came into force on March 11th 2011. The Treaty is signed by all 12 independent states on the South American continent, except French Guiana that is an overseas department of France.

It is the intention of the member states to model the new community after the European Union, including a common currency, parliament, and passport to be completed by 2019.

Integration without infrastructure is almost impossible. To this end UNASUR has promoted various infrastructure initiatives as highways, an energy ring, visa free travel for 90 days, etc.

To reach a full union major hurdles with regard to existing antagonistic political visions have to be taken. Differences that culminate in for instance Venezuela not being invited to the inauguration of president Horatio Cartes of Paraguay on August 15th 2013 or as reported by the Brazilian newspaper ‘O Globo’ that “ not even the Pope could bring Brazil and Paraguay together”.

Also the move of Colombia to look for a cooperation understanding with NATO (North Atlantic Treaty Organization), has irked the so called Latin American group of ‘anti-imperialist countries’, at a moment when relations between neighbouring Colombia and Venezuela have hit a new low. This move also puts a stress on the South American Defence Council (CDS) as proposed by Venezuela and Brazil to serve as a mechanism for regional security, promoting military co-operation and regional defence.

Economically spoken UNASUR is dominated by large economies and a strong development bank, ‘the Bank of the South’ that, in the style of the World Bank, can finance economic development projects to improve local competitiveness and to promote the scientific and technological development of the member states. These large economies are sometimes seen as a threat to the small economy of Suriname with almost no economies of scale and a must to look for niche markets. Trade from Suriname with the UNASUR countries is, Guyana excluded as CARICOM member, dominated by Brazil with a large variety of goods, followed by Columbia (cement), Venezuela (diesel and fuel) and to a minor extent Argentina (fruit pulp), Peru (bottles) and Chile (wine).

Typical for its recent historical struggle with democracy that Suriname shares with Latin American countries, is that the last instrument deposited by Suriname is on “Promoting and Protecting Democracy in South America”. This instrument still lacks the ratifications of at least 9 member states to come into force.

Carifesta XI Magazine 49

August 17th

Carifesta XI Highlights

August 16th

Workshop Brazil Capoeira • COVAB Exhibition French Guyana Opening night Guyana Shield, Artifact Exhibition • Fort Zeelandia Country night Barbados • Grand Central Market Music Donny Mc Clurkin • Indepence Square Theatre St. Kitts&Nevis When Man Make Woman Heart • On Stage Dance Cuba Abureye/Kokoye • Thalia Dance Belize Belize National dance company • Thalia Community Festival Para Antigua & Barbuda High Tempa Band • Wakoeri, Powakka

Opening ceremony

August 18th

• Independence Square Music Antiqua and Barbuda Jazz at Carifesta • Torarica Banquet Hall Music Argentina Jazz at Carifesta • Torarica Ball Room Music Barbados Jazz at Carifesta • Torarica de PIER Theater Barbados House of Landship • On Stage Theater Belize My Body is Precious • Theater Unique Capoeira presentation Brazil • Independence Square Shaolin Kung fu China • NIS Traditional Fried Food Festival of Cartagena Colombia • Palm Garden Cesario Dance Creation Curacao • Stibula Masquerade St. Lucia • Sana Budaya Folk Village Suriname • Nieuw Amsterdam Suriname Forever Marlene’s ballet • Thalia Storytelling Barbados • Tower

August 19th

Centro Nacional de la Danza Venezuela • Thalia

The opening ceremony of Carifesta XI was truly amazing. Despite the fact that the tribune could not house the large numbers of people who wanted to attend the ceremony, the reactions to the spectacle were very positive. The light show was the biggest eye-catcher. According to former Carifesta Art Director and well-known story teller Paul Middellijn, this was exactly the effect that they wanted to achieve during the first preparation of Carifesta XI. Middellijn was part of a basic three-man team that designated the Presidential Palace as suitable stage where children and others could dance and show their talents. The company Shaike’s light & sound was approached to give a presentation about the various possibilities for a light show. With a few changes the results were exactly what Middellijn hoped for. He is very proud of it.

Workshop Business for the art and Drama in education • CCS meeting room Countrynight Curacao and Antigua & Barbuda • Grand Central Market (KKF) Music Cuba and Trinidad & Tobago • Independence Square Natya Lakshita Dance School Indonesia • Fort Nieuw Amsterdam Grandeur Fashion Show various countries • Royal Torarica Garden Dance Retazos Cuba • Thalia Dance Mi Nou St. Lucia • Thalia Dance Suriname • Thalia Music Calypso Soca St. Vincent & the Grenadines, Trinidad & Tobago, Antigua & Barbuda • Theater Unique Music Obina Bata Cuba • Torarica Ballroom

August 20th

Storytelling Various Countries • Tower Dance Tropicana Cuba • Flamboyant Park Country Night Cuba and Guyana • Independence Square Theater After Nine eleven Antigua & Barbuda • On Stage La Gracia Dance Company St. Vincent & the grenadines • Thalia Theatre Deaf performance Guyana/ Suriname • Theater Unique Theatre Voices of Freedom Suriname • Theater Unique Theater Reflection of Silence • Theater Unique Masquerade & Folk St Lucia, Suriname, Trinidad & Tobago • Vrouwencentrum Various countries •Youth Village (SOSIS)

50 Carifesta XI Magazine

August 21th

Community Festival Brokopondo Various countries • Anani beach Capoeira workshop Brazil • Café Lindeboom Theatre When men make women St. Kitts & Nevis • CCS IKO Workshop Suriname • CCS Dance workshop Cuba • CCS Lab for playwrights St. Luca, Trinidad & Tobago • CCS Steelpan music Guyana • Fort Nieuw Amsterdam Literary arts various countries • Grand Central Market (KKF) Country night Suriname • Independence square Ballet Bacoulou Haiti • NIS Variety Program Antiqua & Barbuda, Grenda • Sportcomplex Kwatta Music Los Caribenos Cuba • Stibula Anansi Evening various countries • Theater Unique

August 22nd

Music Caribbean Party various countries • Youth village (SOSIS)

Music Youth fusion band “just us” with Jean Durham Suriname • CCS Music Aulos Woodwind quintet South Korea • Center church Country night Trinidad & Tobago • Independence square Steelband evening Guyana, st, Vincent & Grenadines • Mariott hotel Music Jai Ketwari ensemble and Paris & Friends Suriname • Sana Budaya Living art show Various countries • Grand Central Market Dance Suit Jamaica/Phiip Sherlock/ UWI • On Stage Dance Codanco Suriname • Thalia NoMaddz concert Jamaica • Youth Village (SOSIS) Dance Metamorphis Dance Company/Language of the soul Trinidad & Tobago

August 23rd

• Youth Village (SOSIS)

Symposium Narratives of searching the “we” Oral tradition in Curacao • CCS Community Festival Marowijne various countries • Clockhouse Abureye Cuba Traditional Folk Village • Nieuw Amsterdam Country night Antigua & Barbuda/ Belize • Grand Central Market (KKF) Indigenous Programm Suriname • Independence square Music Voices of Freedom Suriname • Nieuw Nickerie Theatre Ma Seye’s oracle (double bill with Cinderella) • On Stage Music Foyan Boyz Bonair • Sana Budaya Music Youth Band New Generation Grenada • Sana Budaya Kokoye Cuba Community Festival • Coronie

August 24th

Music Apoplectic Suriname • Youth Village (SOSIS)

Music Kawina festival Suriname • Bronsplein Music Cana Dulce Y Cana Brava Mexico • CCS Music Ap’tijt Suriname • Grand Central Market (KKF) Music National Choir of Antiqua & Barbuda PBC Boys Choir Grenada • Independence square Music Lia Sophia Brazil • Independence square Music Tabou Combo Haiti • Independence square Music Wyclef Jean Haiti • Independence square Music Tazza band Suriname Community festival • Nickerie

August 25th Closing ceremony • Independence Square

Theatre Makantali Guyana • Onstage Obina Bata Cuba Community festival • Coronie

Carifesta XI Magazine 51

52 Carifesta XI Magazine

DEVELOPMENT

Suriname

A colorful experience .Authentic cultures, enchanting nature and unique people of many different origins, that is what everyone who travels to Suriname will certainly experience. →

Carifesta XI Magazine 53

Suriname, once a colony of The Netherlands, has a lively history. Since the discovery by the Europeans and occupation by several European countries, populations from different places in the world have established here. In Suriname you will find traces of the English, the French, the Germans and of course the Dutch.

The natives are the indigenous who lived mainly from hunting and fishing.

With the arrival of the Europeans, plantations flourished especially on the northern coast, where they mainly grew cotton, tobacco, coffee beans, sugar cane, and cacao. At first, slaves from Africa were brought in to do the work on the plantations and later the work was done by guest workers from Indonesia and India.

The Chinese also found their way to Suriname and later on the Brazilians settled in Suriname too.

The plurality of populations, of which most retain their original habits, gives Suriname a cultural mĂŠlange which is unique in the world. Nowhere else will you find Javanese, African, Indian, Chinese, Indigenous and European cultures in such a small community living side by side in peace. The Surinamese mentality is the result of a potpourri 54 Carifesta XI Magazine

of these different populations. In addition to the well-known relaxed feeling, typical for the most habitants of the Caribbean, the Surinamese people are warm, have positive attitude and easy to talk to. The friendly, relaxed way of living and especially their sense of humor is what makes the Surinamese people so special. Surinamese people love the outdoor life, they make easy contact and they are extraordinary tolerant. That last aspect results in the fact that almost everything here happens in the Surinamese way. “No Spang” (Don’t worry) is therefore one of the most heard statements in this country. Good food, partying and having a good time with other people are central in the daily life of Surinamese people. In the extension of this fact, many National holidays are celebrated by the different cultures. At Holi Pagwa, an Indian holiday, people sprinkle each other with colored powder.

Many events are organized on the 1st of July when it is Keti Koti (abolition of slavery), mini exhibitions are given in the Palm Garden on the Day of Natives and on Memorial Day of Javanese Integration the people exuberantly enjoy the authentic gamelan music and beau-

tiful dances of Indonesia.

The people are also attracted by various events and festivals like: the 4 days march; a walking of 4 days through the streets of Paramaribo, the Savannah Rally, Independence Day, Jazz festivals and other happenings mostly held in the capital. However Paramaribo is not the only city with festivities. Party’s are also frequently held in the districts and the backwoods.

Already in the savanna belt, south of the coast, there are native and maroon settlements where it is an absolute must to visit a village festival. The ancient populations still have their original traditions.

The more you go to the south, the more authentic the customs and habits of the natives and maroons are. The maroons, descendants of runaway plantation slaves, form a unique population in the world.

The slaves were recruited from different descents of Africa. After these Africans were shipped to the Caribbean they were divided once again and again at arrival at the plantations of Suriname. After they fled into the backwoods the runaway tribesmen from different African descendants clustered together and nowadays they still live together in certain maroon

villages. So throughout the years the maroon developed their own typical culture, which finds its origin in Africa but because of the mixture of different African descendents and the adaption to the Surinamese jungle, they became a special cultural phenomenon.

The residential areas of the natives and the maroons are mainly in the south of the country. The landscape over there is truly magical and the nature virtually untouched. The decoration of the backwoods is formed by gigantic trees with majestic heights, orchids in wonderful colors, flowers in diverse shades and other exotic plants along with long rivers and waterfalls. Rare species can live freely in the enormous but sparsely populated area and sometimes visitors can spot them.

The holiday resorts in the back woods guarantee relaxation in the nature.

The tourism in Suriname is small and most resorts only have a few units where you can stay and you are guaranteed to get a good rest. Besides that the resorts are spread all over the country so the nature doesn’t get overloaded by great numbers of visitors in one place.

water supply per capita.

Everywhere throughout the country you can find green, in different shades.

But green is by no means the only color you will find in Suriname. Apart from the different populations, with all different skin colors, colors are everywhere in Suriname. Fruits, juices, fresh spices, flowers, ornaments, buildings, painted ice cream trucks and even autobuses painted in various beautiful colors, set the scene of Paramaribo.

Suriname has a lot to offer.

Rest, relaxation, adventure, coziness, good food, nature, authenticity, wonderful wooden architecture and much more, but what makes Suriname really unique is the Surinamese people.

They are the ones providing the entertainment and with their laid back and carefree nature, the Surinamese people can turn a visit to this country into an unforgettable and colorful experience.

Martin Panday

Suriname is one of the greenest countries in the world and has the largest Carifesta XI Magazine 55

Sherida Mormon Manager Advice for Business Innovation and Creation (ABIC)

DIASPORA TOURISM Stimulate Diaspora Tourism through Heritage Festival

“I had the privilege of assisting in a study of Diaspora development in Suriname initiated by the Ramphal Research Center executed by Dr. Keith Nurse. After a presentation of his preliminary results, I decided to take part in a committee established to take concrete actions. Concrete actions were deemed necessary since research has shown that Diaspora is of crucial importance in the social economic development of its home country. Moreover, Diaspora and intra-regional tourism are the two fastest growing components of the travel and tourism markets. After some brainstorm sessions with several stakeholders we decided to introduce the Suriname Heritage Festival, specifically intended to stimulate the local awareness and to strengthen communities to make a living out of their heritage. At the same time, we wanted to create an occasion to stimulate Diaspora tourism to Suriname”, and thus the idea for the Suriname Heritage Festival was born.

The benefits and the meaning of Diapsora Tourism

Diaspora can be described as a large group of people with a similar heritage or homeland who have since moved to different places all over the world. Diaspora tourism and heritage tourism are both a form of tourism focused on the cultural heritage of the location or community. Cultural heritage tourism is defined as “travelling to experience the places and activities that authentically represent the stories and people of the past and present”.

Heritage tourism involves visiting historical or industrial sites that may include old canals, town’s battlegrounds, plantations and natural areas. The overall purpose is to gain an appreciation of the past. It also aims to market a location to members of a Diaspora with family roots there. All those ingredients were combined during the Surinamese Heritage Festival.

Tourism data of Suriname shows that about 62% of the visitors has a connection with the country either through being a native or through having relatives or friends who live in Suriname. The growth of the Diaspora economy has made a substantial contribution to a more favorable balance of the payments position in several labor exporting territories in the Caribbean.

Promote Carifesta in Caribbean- Diaspora countries

The Caribbean Festival of Arts, CARIFESTA, aims to foster a vision of Caribbean unity and to positively advance the Caribbean culture regionally and internationally. After a strategic analysis of CARIFESTA in its old form indicated that the festival was uncompetitive in the regional and international context and was no longer fulfilling its mandate, a new CARIFESTA model was developed to restructure the Festival. In this same strategic plan key indicators and objectives were formulated to ensure a more dynamic and economically viable event that meets the expectations of regional and international audiences. Amongst others, specific emphasis is laid on Diaspora involvement.

Some key statements about the Diaspora are mentioned in the new CARIFESTA model: - The Caribbean Diaspora has emerged as an important group to lobby and advocate for economic and market issues and therefore as an important market for arts and popular culture.

- There is an increasing competition from overseas and diaspora

56 Carifesta XI Magazine

festivals.

- Festivals are often used by Diaspora communities to visit friends and relatives.

- To enhance artistic excellence we should attract professional, innovative talent from around the region and the Diaspora.

- Regional and Diaspora cultural tourists are prime markets.

- To reach the target group advertisements in Caribbean & inter national magazines, travel magazines and television programs, regional and diaspora newspapers are necessary.

In the current festival outline it is stated that CARIFESTA must be promoted as a tourist destination for CARIFESTA 2013 in Caribbean and Diaspora countries.

Rationale

A recent study of Dr. Keith Nurse, as director of the Shridath Ramphal Centre for International Trade Law, Policy and Services, about the homelands and global cities shows that Diaspora visits are in part intended to: - Strengthen family ties.

- Educate Diaspora children about their homeland, language, culture, and history.

- Facilitate participation in family, national, cultural events.

- Develop business partners/markets.

- Access services that are more cost effective.

The 5 T’s of the Diaspora Economy were introduced - Transfers - financial remittances. Currently this is about 6.4% of the GDP and 246% Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) - Trade - cultural, heritage and nostalgia - Travel and transport - Tourism - Telecommunications

Maximum use potential Diaspora

Festivals are effective tools to stimulate cultural confidence, business development and integration and can also be used to generate national and international appreciation. Although the Suriname Heritage Festival can’t be compared to a large scale festival such as CARIFESTA in terms of size, effect and impact, there are apparent similarities. In both festivals clear statements are set out to engage the Diaspora.

Evaluation of these festivals are necessary to identify to what extend Diaspora was involved and analyze its direct and indirect effects. Currently no systematic approach has been used to benchmark the initial situation or to set out a clear operational policy to involve the Diaspora and this has proven to be fundamental to enhance the impact of the Diaspora in their home country.

We are heading for our 4th Heritage festival in 2014 and we expect to see a significant improvement in the number of visitors and creative products. Shortly after the introduction of the first festival and the media campaigns many other interest groups including the government of Suriname have shown increased interest in the subject Diaspora. They are preparing several policies for the involvement of the Diaspora in the development of the country.

You are invited to our next big event:

THE ‘OWRU JARI’ PAGARA FESTIVAL

Small corporate party grows into formal Pagara Festival with thousands of visitors every year.

www. bombelman.com

New Year’s Eve in Suriname is called ‘owru jari’ which means old year. These celebrations start at 10 in the morning and go on until the next day. The day is usually filled with laughter, dance, music, and drinking. The highlight of this day is without a doubt the Pagara Festival.

Businessman Conrad Issa, one of the initiators of the festival says that the start of this festival is more or less due to coincidence. It started with an annual tradition, originally from the Chinese culture, to set off a string of firecrackers (pagaras) around noon, on the 31st of December in front of stores by storeowners.

According to Chinese tradition, the idea was to get the smoke to go into the shop to be ensured of a prosperous year.

Although a lot of people came downtown to be part of the festivities surrounding this tradition, setting off the firecrackers and other activities were internal parties intended for the personnel of the companies.

While it was all good fun, setting off the pagaras was not always done safely. The pagaras would produce a lot of smoke that would enter the stores. And also, when you were focused on setting off your own pagara, there was a risk that someone behind you was setting off theirs resulting in too much smoke and also leading to other risks. In order to somewhat regulate these festivities, more than 10 years ago a group of shop owners came together with the purpose to bring structure in the festivities. They decided that every

entrepreneur could set off a string of pagaras of 100 meters followed by the next entrepreneur and so on. The organization is responsible for giving a sign when the next pagara can be set off. This is important, because if it is too cloudy, the companies have to wait a bit longer before setting the next one off.

Every year more and more companies joined. Stages were set up with line-ups including famous artists and thousands of visitors came to the city to attend this event. The Pagara Festival was born.

In 2009, Mr. Santhoki, at the time minister of Justice and Police, proposed to move the Pagara Festival to another location because of the enormous interest and also for safety reasons. One of the options named for the relocation was the Waterfront. This proposal triggered a lot of protests from all levels in society and the companies involved in the Pagara Festival. The current minister of Justice and Police then invited Conrad Issa, event manager Deborah Arlaud and representatives of the Fire Brigade and the Police Department and gave them the opportunity to give their insights on the activities and discuss the extend of the safety measures that need to be taken.

As a result the Pagara Festival became a formal annual event on the 31st of December in downtown Paramaribo that many people are looking forward to.

The current success of this festival is due to the good collaboration between the

Conrad Issa

Pagara Festival Committee, the Fire Brigade and the Police Department.

Our telecom company Telesur joined two years ago. Nowadays the Pagara relay starts at Lucky Store and splits at the Domineestraat in the direction of Kersten at Hotel Krasnapolsky and in the direction of Spanhoek after which it ends at Telesur at the landmark fountain. The event starts around 11:30 in the morning.

Film crews are stationed on strategic points to film all the activities so the whole world can enjoy the festivities together with us through live streaming.

“But it is absolutely better to experience it yourself!” says businessman Conrad Issa. The festivities go on until 5:00 in the afternoon.

“All ingredients to make this a unique experience, are there,” says Issa. “It’s always a great thing to experience and lots of fun.

Expect an exuberant, spontaneous, joyous atmosphere. I truly hope you’ll accept this invitation!”

“Every 31st of December the shops in downtown Paramaribo end the year with shooting of long firecrackers.

At noon the first string of firecrackers (pagara) is shot. This has become a part of Suriname’s diverse culture and also a tourist attraction.

Thousands of people gather in downtown Paramaribo to experience this colorful event.

It’s an event you should experience at least once in your life”.

Source: CNN Travel

Carifesta XI Magazine 57

Carifesta XI The true spirit of unity in our Caribbean region

“Success is not final, failure is not fatal: it is the courage to continue that counts.�

(Winston Churchill).

Carifesta 2003, hosted by Suriname was a success, but 2013 was an act of courage and faith in the strength of our beautiful people. We are very proud to be the organizers of the first New Model of Carifesta with all its ingredients.

We kept our promise to deliver a product that has never been offered before, a product that better speaks to our imagination and cultural heritage.

Like the President of the Republic in Suriname, I want to express our gratitude for the participants from all over the region and the rest of the world, but in particular for the dedication and commitment of the people and organizations involved.

Carifesta XI in Suriname has been ten days of a colorful experience of creativeness, traditions, beliefs, art, and also of love and passion, but most of all an expression of cultural identity in

58 Carifesta XI Magazine

the region. These are the first implications of our return on investment of this Carifesta for our country and the region. The economical aspects are yet to be calculated, but we are quite certain that we will benefit from it for years.

As host country manager I would like to take this opportunity to express a special vote of thanks to all the people involved in the management of Carifesta XI, but in particular the youth of Suriname.

Congratulations on the great success.

God bless Suriname!

Chair Host Country Management Committee, Ivan Graanoogst

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Suriname a colorful experience