Recognising the importance of investing in local talent, the programme focused on service excellence, customer engagement, resilience and destination pride. It also aimed to establish a foundation for sustainable hospitality training on the island.
As part of this effort, a Train the Trainer component was introduced to support the continued development of hospitality skills within the community. Three participants, Chandé Rivers, Lidia Matos Cruz and Luceta van Putten, successfully completed this component and are now prepared to assist with future training on Statia.
The initiative was supported by Summa College Eindhoven, a leading vocational education institution in the Netherlands. Special appreciation is extended to Ms Daniëlle Goos and Mr Martijn van der Linden for developing a curriculum tailored to the needs of Sint Eustatius and its hospitality sector. The curriculum builds on existing local and regional training programmes while addressing identified gaps through newly developed modules.
The programme began with training sessions held from 1 to 5 June 2026, covering topics such as First Impressions, Statia Day Starts With You and Resilience in Hospitality. Participants also gained practical experience through restaurant and overnight hotel visits, allowing them to experience the island from a visitor's perspective and better understand guest expectations.
The programme concluded with an assessment and examination week from 26 to 30 October 2026, during which participants demonstrated their practical skills and theoretical knowledge. Key areas included creating memorable visitor experiences, understanding the qualities of an excellent host and maintaining resilience under pressure.
Regio Deal Statia Co-Programme Managers Ms Nicole Asin and Mr Raimie Richardson congratulated the participants on their achievements and encouraged them to apply their newly acquired skills in their daily interactions with residents and visitors.
"We can have all the attractions and facilities, but it is the people who make the difference. Thank you for your commitment to this programme. We look forward to seeing you put your skills into practice and demonstrate the warmth and pride of Statian hospitality," said Ms Asin.
Upon successful completion, all 15 participants received a Hospitality Certificate of Participation and a MyCompass competency passport developed by Summa College. Those who passed the examination will also receive an MBO certificate.
The MyCompass passport provides an overview of the hospitality and tourism competencies participants have developed and the levels they have achieved. It enables them to recognise their strengths, monitor their progress, demonstrate their capabilities and explore future career opportunities.
Participants will soon have the opportunity to apply their skills during the Statia Day celebrations, where they will serve in various hospitality and guest service roles. This practical experience will allow them to contribute to a welcoming and memorable experience for residents and visitors.
The organisers extend their appreciation to the local businesses that supported the practical training component. Neptune Bar and Restaurant, Barrel House, The Old Gin House, Papaya Inn and Quill Gardens provided valuable opportunities for participants to gain insight into hospitality operations and guest service.
Special appreciation is also extended to Summa College trainers Mrs Maud Claassen and Mrs Wandy Jansen for their dedication, guidance and contributions throughout the programme. Their efforts have helped establish a strong foundation for continued hospitality training on Sint Eustatius.
Congratulations are extended to all participants for their dedication and achievements. Their successful completion of the programme represents an important contribution to the island's growing hospitality sector.
This initiative forms part of Regio Deal Statia's wider efforts to strengthen local capacity, support professional development and create sustainable opportunities within the community.
About Regio Deal Statia
Regio Deal Statia is a collaborative initiative focused on supporting the sustainable social and economic development of Sint Eustatius through strategic investments, capacity building and community-focused projects. Working alongside local stakeholders and partners, Regio Deal Statia aims to create lasting opportunities that strengthen the island's future and contribute to long-term economic resilience.
