INTERNSHIP CURAÇAO

Curaçao is an island located in the southern Caribbean Sea and is one of the islands that make up the Kingdom of the Netherlands. The island is renowned for its stunning beaches, vibrant architecture, rich culture, and warm hospitality.

In the lively streets of Willemstad, the colorful capital, the pastel-colored buildings stand like joyful paintings against the sky. The architecture bears the marks of a history infused with European, African, and Indigenous American influences. Narrow cobblestone streets lead to the coast, where colonial forts rise against the horizon as witnesses of bygone eras.

In addition to its idyllic beauty, Curaçao also faces socio-economic challenges, including poverty. Poverty on the island has various causes and manifests in different ways. A significant portion of the population lives below the poverty line, struggling with limited resources and opportunities to meet their basic needs.

(Sports) education and skills development also play a role in addressing poverty on Curaçao. This is why we aim to provide structured sports programs for the children and youth of the island. These sports activities are accompanied by educational lessons, which we call “Life Skills.” Through these activities, participants learn essential skills and connect with role models who share similar backgrounds. Given the close-knit nature of the island, if someone excels in one of our programs, they can quickly be linked to the national team.

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Curaçao

WHO IS THIS INTERNSHIP SUITABLE FOR?

Your goal as an intern isn’t necessarily to train Curaçao’s next international sports star—although, you never know, it could happen! You don’t need to be an experienced coach or hold certifications. A basic knowledge of the sport you’ll be teaching is helpful, but the most important thing is that you bring enthusiasm and energy to your lessons.

This internship is ideal for students in sports-related studies, but it’s also a great fit for those studying event/leisure management, social work, marketing, education, or cultural studies. It’s important to note that you will always be involved as a sports coach. On Curaçao, you can choose to spend some days in the office working on your school or internship assignments. Some exciting internship projects could include organizing a large-scale sports event, incorporating your own sport into the curriculum, conducting research, or setting up a fundraising event.

We are always open to creating a customized internship for you through a personal consultation.

THE INTERNSHIPS WITH THE POWER OF SPORT ARE DIFFERENT

Internship placements are a thriving industry in Curaçao, but they don’t always have the best reputation, especially in the education and childcare sectors.

What sets us apart:

On-site Coordinator: Unlike traditional internships in Curaçao, our program offers continuous support with a coordinator who resides on-site. This fosters a supportive environment where interns can easily access help and guidance.

24/7 Support from Home Country: Interns benefit from 24/7 support from our team in the Netherlands, providing reassurance and assistance whenever needed.

Transportation Facilities: We have our own transportation, including 13 bicycles and a car. Interns also have the option to rent a car during their stay on the island. Our accommodation provides secure parking for vehicles.

Pre-departure Screening: Before departure, interns undergo a screening process to assess their suitability for the program. Given that we work with vulnerable youth, it’s essential that interns have the right motivation and appropriate background.

On-site Support and Training (Administrative and Training): Upon arrival, interns receive personalized training, equipping them with the necessary administrative and practical skills to excel in their roles and effectively contribute to the organization’s goals.

Orientation, including Language Skills: Our comprehensive orientation program introduces interns to local customs, traditions, and basic Papiamentu, facilitating smooth integration into the community and enhancing their cultural competence, while ensuring a safe and comfortable stay.

Code of Conduct: We maintain a strict code of conduct to ensure professionalism, respect, and ethical behavior among interns, safeguarding their personal safety and the organization’s reputation during their internship and stay in Curaçao.

EU Standards and Child Protection Training: Interns are trained according to EU standards and regulations for child protection, prioritizing the safety and well-being of children and vulnerable individuals in all interactions and activities.

Focus on Schools, Sports, and Communities: Our program is specifically focused on targeted schools, sports, and communities to address particular needs and challenges, maximizing the potential for impactful interventions and positive outcomes.

Proven Model for Positive Impact: Based on our successful program in Saint Lucia for over 12 years, we aim to leave a lasting positive impact, creating opportunities for youth to thrive and succeed.

WHY The power of Sports?

  • No registration fee and a free intake interview.
  • The project on Curaçao ‘E Poder di Deporte’ (The Power of Sports in Papiamentu) was founded by ourselves.
  • Our Internships abroad is affordable, especially when you consider what you get in return.
  • The only travel organization that focuses entirely on social sports trips.
  • We tell an honest story and assess whether you are suitable for the project.
  • Our programs are carried out responsibly and have a proven positive impact.
  • All our employees are well acquainted with our foreign programs.
  • We offer good personal guidance, both in your home country and abroad.
  • We are founders and part of the ‘volunteer aware’ quality mark. We want to emphasize that our projects are rooted in a sincere dedication to a noble goal.

ARRIVAL WEEKENDS

It is highly recommended to join one of the arrival weekends below. These are weekends where many volunteers/interns arrive at the same time and there is an introduction, orientation and icebreaker activities. So it is always better if you arrive on one of these Fridays.
2025
January 3
January 24
February 14
March 7
March 28
April 18
May 9
May 30
June 20
 
(Summer vacation from July 5)
 
September 5
September 26
October 17
November 7
November 28
 
(Christmas vacation from December 20)

I’m a vegetarian. Will my dietary preferences be accommodated?

  • We only do breakfast in Curaçao. Vegetarians are also taken into account.

What do I need to consider when traveling abroad?

  • After our initial conversation, where everything is discussed, you’ll have some time to decide if this adventure is right for you. If you choose to go ahead, we will schedule a second conversation with you, during which we’ll go through the ‘Welcome Pack’ together. This pack contains all the details you need to consider, including what to bring, vaccinations, and other important preparations.

Can I volunteer for less than four weeks?

  • For your personal development, it is best to spend a longer period of time abroad. If you go for less than four weeks, it may feel more like a holiday experience. Therefore, we only offer volunteer opportunities starting from four weeks. To get the most out of your experience, we recommend staying for 12 weeks or longer.

Can I arrive earlier or later than the scheduled arrival weekend?

  • This is possible but is strongly discouraged. Not only will you miss the introduction and orientation, you will also join an existing, often close-knit group and it is always more difficult to please a group if the group has already been formed. If you really cannot arrive earlier/later or if the flight is much cheaper, it is also advisable to take the first few days for a hostel before you go to our accommodation. Let us know, we are happy to help you!

How many other people will be doing the internship with me?

  • There are always other interns/volunteers present at the accommodation in Curacao. The size of the group varies between 5 and 12 people. They often come from the Netherlands, but it is also possible that there are people from other countries. You can contact us to ask how many others will be there during your period. We will also create a group app with other people who will be making the trip in the same time frame. This way you can get to know each other in advance.
 

Sports in Curacao

There are several popular sports in Curacao that are played by the locals. Here are some of the most popular sports in Curacao:
 
Baseball: Baseball is by far the most popular sport in Curacao. The island has a strong baseball tradition and has produced many talented players who have achieved international success. Many young Curacao players are also being noticed by Major League Baseball teams in the United States.
Football: Football is also a very popular sport in Curacao. The Curacao national soccer team has performed well in regional competitions in recent years, such as the Caribbean Cup. Local football clubs also have a strong following and there are several football fields and facilities on the island. Let’s hope they will attent for the first time the world cup in 2026.
 
Basketball: Basketball is growing in popularity in Curacao. There are several basketball clubs and leagues on the island, and the national basketball teams have gained some international recognition. Basketball courts can be found in several communities and schools in Curacao.
 
Volleyball: Volleyball is another popular sport on the island, both recreationally and competitively. There are volleyball clubs and leagues that both men and women participate in. The Curaçao national volleyball team has also participated in regional tournaments.
 
Athletics: Athletics is a popular individual sport on Curaçao. There are several athletic clubs and training facilities where people can participate in various disciplines, such as sprinting, long jump, high jump, and throwing. Local athletic competitions and events are organized regularly.
 
In addition to these sports, other activities that are popular on Curaçao include windsurfing, diving, sailing, and cycling, due to the island’s favorable geographical location and beautiful natural surroundings. The sports landscape on Curaçao continues to evolve and there are always new sports initiatives and events taking place on the island.

4 weeks volunteering is
£1010 €1190 $1340

including:

  • Beautiful accommodation.
  • Airport pick-up.
  • Breakfast.
  • Mountain bike
  • Introduction and tour upon arrival.
  • A designated coordinator at your project location.
  • Regular social events and joint activities with other volunteers and interns
  • Visa advice and support
  • Access to the groups app with all other volunteers/interns who are traveling at the same time.

  • Contact details of your coordinator to get acquainted in advance

    Any additional week is
    £210  €240  $270

10+ weeks = £2270 + £130 for each additional week
16+ weeks = £3050 + £85 for each additional week

10+ weeks = €2630 + €150 for each additional week
16+ weeks = €3530 + €100 for each additional week

10+ weeks = $2960 + $170 for each additional week
16+ weeks = $3980 + $115 for each additional week

About Curaçao

 
Curaçao is an island located in the southern Caribbean Sea, part of the Kingdom of the Netherlands. With a rich history, diverse culture and breathtaking natural beauty, Curaçao attracts thousands of visitors each year.
 
Curaçao’s history began with the indigenous Arowak Indians, followed by the arrival of the Spanish in the 15th century. Later, the island became a Dutch colony and an important center for the slave trade. The influences of this history are still visible in the island’s architecture, cuisine and culture.
 
Willemstad, the capital of Curaçao, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its colorful Dutch colonial architecture. The Handelskade with its brightly colored buildings along the water is an iconic sight. The island also has a vibrant mix of cultures, with Papiamento being the official language, but many people also speak English, Spanish and Dutch.
 
Curaçao’s beaches are among the most beautiful in the world, with azure waters and white sands. Snorkeling and diving are popular activities thanks to the clear waters and rich underwater world, including the famous Mushroom Forest dive site.
 
In addition to its natural beauty, Curacao also offers a vibrant local cuisine with influences from various cultures. Local dishes such as karni stoba (meat stew) and keshi yena (stuffed cheese) are favorites among locals and tourists alike.
 
Curacao has a warm climate and friendly people, making it an ideal destination for both relaxation and adventure. Whether you enjoy the historic charm of Willemstad, relax on the beautiful beaches or discover the vibrant local culture, Curacao offers an unforgettable experience at the crossroads of European, African and Caribbean influences.

Accommodation

In Curaçao, you will stay in our beautiful villa, offering the perfect blend of comfort and convenience. The villa spans two floors. On the first floor, you’ll find a spacious living room, a fully equipped kitchen, a bathroom, and two comfortable bedrooms. The second floor houses the remaining two bedrooms, another bathroom, and a balcony that offers stunning views of the ocean, making it an ideal spot for relaxing and taking in the sunset.

The villa is ideally situated near some of the most beautiful locations on the island, including the famous Mambo Beach, where you can enjoy crystal-clear waters and vibrant beach life. It’s also close to a variety of nightclubs and bars, providing plenty of options for entertainment. Additionally, the villa is just a short three-minute drive from the capital, Willemstad, where you can explore the rich culture, colorful architecture, and historical sites that Curaçao has to offer. This prime location ensures that you’ll have easy access to both relaxation and adventure during your stay.

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