VOLUNTEERING IN CURAÇAO

Hockey is developing steadily in Curaçao, with growing interest and involvement from both local people and expats. Although the island may not be as strongly associated with hockey as some other countries, the sport has certainly grown in popularity here.

Local hockey clubs have actively contributed to promoting the sport. They organise training sessions, matches and tournaments, giving both beginners and experienced players the chance to develop their skills and take part in competitive events.

An important part of hockey’s growth in Curaçao is the involvement of young people. Youth programmes and school initiatives play a crucial role in introducing young people to the sport and encouraging them to take part. Through these programmes children and teenagers enjoy not only the physical benefits of hockey but also the team spirit and social interaction the sport encourages.

As with other sports on the island, hockey in Curaçao benefits from international connections. Exchange programmes, international tournaments and regional competitions help develop the local hockey community and give players the chance to test themselves against teams from all over the world.

Although hockey may not be as widespread as some other sports in Curaçao, the growing interest and commitment of local people is promising. Hockey offers not only a chance to be active but also helps build community and team spirit on the island.
The aim of the hockey project is to make the sport appealing to local people too. You do this by promoting the sport in schools. Children and young people who enjoy it can join our after-school hockey sessions for free and eventually become part of the island’s well-established hockey clubs.

For now the sport is mainly popular among Dutch expats who have almost no connection with the local population. By using sport as a tool, we build bridges and communication between the two groups and give local people the chance to play hockey, a sport that is often seen as too expensive.

In Curaçao every day begins with the sea. It is everywhere: along the coast, in the culture and in daily life. That is exactly why learning to swim here is not a luxury but a life skill. Yet there is a serious shortage of swimming instructors. And that is where you come in.

In Curaçao, children in their fifth year of primary school (around age 8) get swimming lessons, paid for by the government through the sports development foundation. The lessons take place at the Enith Brigitha pool and the Bennie Leito pool. Every morning, from 07:15 to 12:30, you help children step by step to become safe and self-reliant in and around the water. You do not just teach them to swim, you also give them confidence, something they will carry with them for the rest of their lives.

In the afternoon there is room to do more. You can join other sports projects, work with local sports organisations and coaches, and support young people from every part of the community. This is not only about performance, but about participation, fun and personal growth. You see children grow, literally and figuratively, and you become part of a warm, close-knit community.

Choosing Curaçao means choosing impact. Sun and sea, yes, but above all meaningful work. Mornings in which you pass on life skills and afternoons in which you keep developing yourself. As a student or volunteer you leave a mark here, not only in the water but also in people’s hearts.