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Childhood of Erika van der Mark Born on the ‘Friendly Island’ of St. Maarten in 1984, Erika van der Mark’s life journey has been a colorful tapestry of cultural diversity, dance, resilience, and self-discovery. From being a dynamic and rebellious teenager; to facing the challenges of adapting to a new life in Suriname, Erika’s story takes an unexpected turn, leading her to a profound rebirth and the creation of Journey to Horizon—a platform dedicated to helping others embark on their transformative journeys. Growing up in a family with roots in Colombia, Curacao, and St. Maarten, Erika was able to observe and learn about diversity. As the eldest child, her upbringing was also filled with responsibilities for her younger siblings. She was both warm and rebellious; and thrived in her dual nature. Erika embraced her spontaneous energy through dance performances. This was initially as a hobby in Interscholastic competitions and later as a professional dancer, performing with the Calypso King of St. Maarten; King Beau Beau. At 17, Erika left for the Netherlands to pursue Hotel Management. Little did she know that her life would take another exciting turn when she met (at the age of 18), the now ‘father of her children’. A Surinamese guy pursuing Mechanical Engineering. She enjoyed her college years in different ways. Erika continued her passion for dance, working for the well-known “Rock and Vibes” Music production company founded by Mr. Rude Fleming and their artist “Ziggy Recado”. It was the highlight of their college experience as their group performed throughout the Netherlands opening shows for different renowned artists. After completing her studies, and being devoted to her relationship; there was a choice to be made between returning to St. Maarten or settling in Suriname. The choice, though not easy; was Suriname and it became her new home. Coming to Suriname marked a noticeable contrast to her experiences in St. Maarten & Holland. In some ways, there was a “social shock”. Her friendly and open nature sometimes clashed with the somewhat reserved behavior/lifestyle of particular groups within Surinamese society. For her, learning to adjust to societal expectations transformed her extroverted personality. Erika’s career started off at N.V. Consolidated Industries Corporation, where she organically grew, holding at last, the position of Logistics Manager. When deciding to go for her second child, she chose to become a stay-at-home mom, dedicating more time to her “motherhood” journey. This transition, while initially fulfilling, eventually led to a disbalance, causing a feeling of emptiness, frustration, and a strained marriage, ultimately resulting in divorce. The post-divorce period became a spiritual journey for Erika. Despite feeling alone, insecure, and vulnerable, she also experienced a beautiful awakening; realizing the importance of having a ‘TruthversationTM’ with herself. This experience instinctively paved the way for her in different ways. She discovered what self-fulfillment felt like and this led her to support others. Erika’s rebirth marked the beginning of Journey to Horizon. Inspired by her experiences, Erika founded Journey to Horizon, which focuses on creating & contributing to various environments, fostering positive change. Throughout the years Erika has been a part of and carried out workshops, courses, panel discussions, and attended summits in Suriname and the Dutch Caribbean. In short, the metaphorical horizon represents the inner harmony and fulfillment awaiting those willing to embark on this transformative journey. Erika van der Mark’s journey from the lively shores of St. Maarten to the serene horizons of self-discovery in Suriname is a testament to resilience, personal growth, and the power of embracing change. Through Journey to Horizon, Erika is not only sharing her story but empowering others to navigate their unique paths, fostering a community of authenticity, and promoting the journey towards finding the beauty within. Her Impact Journey to Horizon focuses on developing all types of relationships; particularly when clients come as couples or families. The program facilitates a deeper understanding among participants, teaching them how to listen, observe, and accept each other in ways that enhance togetherness, love, happiness, unity, and harmony. In today’s society, the prevailing attitude often centers around self-interest. People prioritize personal gain leading to a decline in genuine human connections. As individuals become absorbed in their own needs; egos tend to take the front seat. Recognizing that fundamental human needs include love, connection, and acceptance, Journey to Horizon seeks to address the challenges posed by a society that tends to overlook these essentials. The concept of ‘TruthversationTM’ is integral to the program’s philosophy. It emphasizes the importance of open and honest communication as a way of meeting the basic needs of individuals. Without such deep, truthful conversations, society risks neglecting these fundamental requirements, leading individuals to navigate experiences without clear understanding. This lack of clarity can result in individuals becoming hardened, deviating from their authentic selves, and further hindering the development of meaningful connections. In essence, Journey to Horizon’s endeavors are to counteract the prevailing harmful societal trend; by promoting a deeper understanding of the fundamental human needs and nurturing authentic connections. Their approach is to strengthen relationships by developing better understanding and encouraging more Truthversations. Their “Rocky Road to Self-Fulfillment” program aims to guide individuals toward a more harmonious and fulfilling way of living. Growth through experience Discovering “self-love”, was a revelation for Erika, a realization that unfolded during her participation in a Vipassana Ten-Day Silent Meditation retreat. This unique retreat was designed to cultivate love and kindness towards oneself. Participants were instructed to sit, reflect, and direct feelings of kindness inward. However, Erika encountered challenges in this process, facing numerous restarts due to her struggle to genuinely feel love for herself. While intellectually acknowledging self-love, her heart remained a battleground where self-criticism prevailed. The meditation became a transformative practice, unveiling the profound truth that self-love is not an effortless journey. For Erika, it was a continuous effort to stand by herself, especially during the most challenging moments. This experience taught her that authentic self-love requires dedicated practice, urging individuals to show up for themselves even when faced with difficulties. Closing

Navigating Cost and Price Comparisons in the Digital Business Landscape In the dynamic realm of modern business, digital technologies are pivotal for success. From cloud-based software to e-commerce platforms, organizations must meticulously evaluate costs and pricing models to drive informed decisions. Let’s delve deeper into the critical considerations for conducting cost comparisons in the digital business sphere: 1. Subscription vs. Pay-Per-Use Models In the digital arena, various tools offer subscription-based pricing or pay-per-use models. Understanding the nuances of each is crucial: – Subscription Model: Businesses pay a fixed fee (monthly or annually) to access the software or service. This model provides cost predictability but may prove expensive if the service remains underutilized. – Pay-Per-Use Model: Organizations pay based on actual usage metrics, such as per transaction, per user, or per data volume. While inherently flexible, costs can escalate with increased utilization. 2. Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) Going beyond the surface price, calculating the Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) is imperative. TCO encompasses various components, including: – License Fees: Initial purchase cost. – Implementation Costs: Expenses related to setup, training, and customization. – Maintenance and Support: Ongoing expenses required for upkeep. – Integration Costs: Efforts associated with connecting the new system with existing infrastructure. 3. Hidden Costs Identifying and accounting for hidden expenses is vital: – Upgrades: Regular updates may entail additional costs. – Data Migration: Transitioning from legacy systems can be a costly endeavor. – Security Measures: Safeguarding digital assets necessitates ongoing investment. 4. Vendor Comparisons Conducting a comprehensive assessment of different vendors is key: – Features: Compare the breadth and depth of functionalities offered. – Scalability: Evaluate how well the solution can accommodate future growth. – Service Level Agreements (SLAs): Assess the quality of support and resolution times. – Vendor Reputation: Investigate customer reviews and the vendor’s reliability.  5. ROI and Value Proposition Calculating the Return on Investment (ROI) is essential: – Efficiency Gains: Determine if the tool can streamline processes and workflows. – Revenue Increase: Evaluate its potential to boost sales or enhance customer engagement. – Cost Savings: Compare the solution against manual or less efficient alternatives. Conclusion In the digital business landscape, conducting thorough cost and price comparisons is indispensable for making well-informed choices. It’s crucial to consider both immediate expenses and long-term implications. Remember, the most cost-effective option might not always align with business objectives; prioritize value and strategic alignment when making decisions. By adopting a holistic approach to cost assessment, organizations can leverage digital tools to optimize operations and drive sustainable growth.

Childhood of Desmond Croker Desmond Olsen Croker was born on September 16, 1979, in Georgetown, Guyana, to Desmond and Annie Croker. Raised in a small housing community in Georgetown, he is the eldest of three brothers and one sister. Growing up in a one-parent household with financial challenges, Desmond and his siblings faced a tough upbringing. His father, a soldier, was often away, and his mother, a domestic worker, struggled to maintain stable employment due to health issues. Desmond attended Southern Elementary School and South Georgetown Secondary School. There was a period when Desmond, his mother, and siblings had to relocate to Essequibo for a year. Despite excelling academically, financial constraints led Desmond to leave school at the age of 14. He began working as a groundsman at a private hospital in Georgetown, foregoing his desire to complete high school. Despite the strict upbringing that limited social interactions with neighbors, Desmond and his siblings developed a strong bond that persists even though they are now living overseas. They make a conscious effort to meet monthly, demonstrating their close-knit relationship. Desmond, who has been married three times, has a daughter from his first marriage. Desmond’s professional journey began as a dropout working at the same hospital where he started as a groundsman. He took on various jobs, including working as a printer. Five years after leaving the hospital, his sister encouraged him to take the entrance test for a Nurse Aide Program. To his surprise, his previous application was still valid, leading him to make the life-changing decision to pursue nursing despite the significant pay cut. At the printery he was making about $3500 fortnight, that was $7000,- a month. If he decided to start the Nursery training, he would get a stipend of $1200 per month. After considerations he made his decision and started with the training. He and his sister successfully completed the training and started working as Nursing Assistants at the hospital. They spent three years there. His mother always instilled the value of education, so one day he was approached by a nurse if he wanted to do nursing During nursing school, Desmond had to work security at night to support his family. Balancing his studies, personal life, and a one-income household proved challenging. After initially failing the final exam, he took a break from his marriage to focus on completing the nursing program, eventually succeeding in his second attempt. Desmond then worked as a nurse in various departments at Georgetown Hospital for five years while pursuing his bachelor’s degree in nursing, the first of its kind at the University of Guyana. After completing his degree, Desmond became a nursing lecturer at the Georgetown School of Nursing. A chance opportunity in Jamaica prompted him to move there, where he worked at a community college and completed his Diabetes Educator education. His time in Jamaica was marked by personal loss, as his Mother passed away from diabetic problems.  After spending 2 years in Kingston, Jamaica, Desmond applied in Trinidad and got his registration. He wanted to be close to his daughter, since it was a 1 hour flight to Guyana. Desmond worked at the nursing college in Trinidad for 5 years.  Desmond later moved to Trinidad, where he worked at a nursing college for five years. In 2008, an opportunity arose for him to undergo Diabetes Education training,  where he finally got the chance to learn more about what happened with his mother. Even Though he had over 10 years experience as a nurse, a lot of things he learned in the training were new to him. That is when and where he found his passion and decided to do this for the rest of his year. During training for chronic diseases, he developed a successful Diabetes Self-Management Education program. His Impact From a young age, he and his siblings were aware of their mother’s frail health, witnessing her resilient recoveries after each setback. However, a tragic day arrived when she succumbed to her condition, leaving an indelible impact on Desmond. Eager to honor his mother’s memory, he channeled his passion for Diabetes Education into a meaningful initiative. This vision led to the establishment of AMCEC (Annie’s Memorial Education Centre) in Trinidad. Originally named in memory of his mother, the business faced challenges securing its domain name. Consequently, it evolved into Annie’s Chronic Diseases and Education Centre, abbreviated as AMCEC. Today, it operates under the official name AMCEC Health. AMCEC Health’s mission is to empower individuals to take proactive steps towards fostering their own health. Desmond recognizes the pressing health challenges faced by the Caribbean community, ranking second globally in chronic disease prevalence. Particularly, the region holds the unfortunate distinction of leading the world in health expenditure for diabetes. Growth through experience AMCEC faces the difficulty of starting conversations regarding diabetes education. Typically, individuals only engage in dialogue when complications have already arisen, and it is often too late. However, once people engage with and undergo diabetes education, their gratitude and enthusiasm become evident, yet usually after experiencing the effects. Another hurdle lies in reaching and connecting with the target audience—those in genuine need of these services and willing to invest in them. Over the years, Desmond has steadily gained recognition as the go-to person on diabetes. The challenge lies in persuading individuals to invest in the valuable offerings provided by AMCEC, as their initial expectations tend to be shallow. Closing Remarks from Desmond Know why you do what you do. You have to have the goal in mind that will propel you forward in spite of all the challenges. Search for the greater and sustainable impact you can and will create with all you do. In order to achieve your goal it requires overcoming obstacles. But it is about being persistent and persistent in whatever you set yourself to do. To fellow entrepreneurs… it will be a tough challenge, but seek counsel wherever you can get it, seek for collaboration from businesses that can benefit yours.

Childhood of Romano Morsen On March 5, 1990, in Nieuw Nickerie, Suriname the great and passionate educator Romano Raj Morsen was born.. His parents are Seeta Bagwan and Guno Morsen. Mother Seeta Bagwan is originally from Guyana and has been living in Suriname for over 50 years. Romano is the youngest of four siblings, with one sister and three brothers. He grew up in a single-parent family, as his parents separated when he was 3 years old. Due to the separation, Seeta Bagwan had to work at 3 to 4 different places as a single mother to provide for her four children. Despite the challenges of providing for her children, she always instilled the value of “I may not have material wealth to give you, but what I can provide is a good education and love.” Romano attended the Public Elementary School, completed the first three years of MULO, and completed the VWO in Nickerie with good admission results. At the age of 18, he moved to Paramaribo. The initial months in Paramaribo were challenging as he left his mother after many years and had to adapt to a new and larger environment. In Paramaribo, he lived with his brothers who had moved there earlier. Romano always used his mother’s words as a life motto and applied them to achieve everything he desired. His study period was relatively smooth, consistently excelled in his academic results, which he considered a pattern of striving for excellence. He proudly completed his Master’s degree with a grade of 9. Upon arriving in Paramaribo, Romano started working in a call center. His routine for about a year looked as follows: 03:00 AM – Wake up 04:00 AM – 07:45 AM – Morning shift 08:00 AM – 01:30 PM – Bachelor study 02:00 PM – 05:30 PM – Afternoon shift 06:00 PM – 10:00 PM – Administrative work at the gym In his second year, he joined the educational team of Vocational Education at the Ministry of Education, Science, and Culture. He graduated from his Bachelor’s study at the age of 21 and began his teaching career, focusing on pedagogy for School Media Library staff. Romano has now been in the field of education for over 12 years. Determination and Perseverance In his younger years, Romano witnessed his mother being a victim of domestic violence. At the age of three, Seeta fled with her four children from their home. Even as a young boy, Romano understood that the environment he grew up in was not healthy. He knew that he didn’t want his children to experience such a life. So, he turned the negative experiences into life lessons, avoiding similar situations with the support of his mother, brothers, and sister. The determination of his mother made Romano realize that regardless of one’s background and beliefs in destiny, anything is achievable. His mother’s resilience resulted in her owning a house today and being able to travel at least once or twice a year. They never forget where they came from. Determination, perseverance, and love for each other ensured that all siblings were supportive and could achieve what they could afford today. Romano always says to everyone who crosses his path: “Your life, your future, and destiny are in your mind, and as an individual, you can create them”. His Impact At the age of 18, Romano Morsen began his Bachelor’s degree. Over the years, Romano has contributed to numerous developments within the field of education. His professional journey started when, as a student, he became a member of the educational team at the Ministry of Education. Just before turning 22, he started his career as a pedagogy and didactics lecturer for the School Media Library staff training program. Shortly after, he joined the COVAB Nursing College as a quality assurance staff member and, within a few months, collaborated with the Director to establish processes and measurement instruments. Due to his proactive approach, Romano became the Head Coordinator of Quality Assurance at COVAB in less than a year, contributing to the ISO certification of the institution. After two years, the position of Education Manager became available at the Nursing College, and without hesitation, he was appointed to oversee 16 programs, including 3 bachelor’s and 13 post-basic programs. As a member of the management team, Romano played a vital role in further positioning COVAB in the Surinamese community, solidifying its indispensable status. Notably, Romano was the only educational expert within the COVAB team. During his tenure as Education Manager, he also completed his Master’s degree at Anton de Kom University. Romano, in his capacity as Education Manager, was responsible for accrediting the programs. The Director of COVAB acknowledged Romano’s efforts in giving COVAB the identity of an educational institution. After some time, Romano received an offer from the University of Suriname. Following discussions with COVAB’s board, he commenced part-time teaching in Education at the University. As time passed, Romano faced a challenging decision: leaving COVAB to dedicate himself full-time to the University. Pursuing an academic career and transforming education had always been his dream. In his first year of full-time commitment, he became the Program Coordinator for the Bachelor’s and Master’s programs in Educational Sciences and Education. Within a year, he was responsible for accreditation. Simultaneously, Romano taught for approximately ten years at the Teachers Training Vocational Education (LOBO), covering subjects such as Psychology, Didactics, Pedagogy, Personal Development, and Coaching. He served as a thesis supervisor and co-evaluator. In the last three years at LOBO, he was also the Program Coordinator for the Education program. Romano taught for over seven years at the Teachers Training Institute (IOL), offering courses like Methods and Techniques, Action Research, and Pedagogy for the Pedagogy and Professional Development programs. He mentored numerous students with their thesis projects at IOL. He served as the Secretary of the Examination and Test Committee at both PTC and the International School for Business in Suriname for three and four years, respectively. Additionally, Romano provided consultancy services to

Childhood of Judith Lochem Although Born in Amsterdam, Netherlands Judith Lochem grew up in Suriname and considers herself a true “Dya-dya Sranan Uma.” She was born on April 27 to Baltus Elfried Lochem and Helena ‘Helen’ Johanna Lochem-Yates. As an 11-month-old baby, Judith and her parents traveled to their homeland of Suriname. In her younger years, Judith grew up In the area of Uitvlugt, where the streets hummed with the laughter of young families. Judith’s childhood unfolded like the pages of an exciting storybook. At the center of it all stood the Emanuels School, a beacon of learning that welcomed children from all walks of life. It was here, amidst the bustling corridors and echoing playgrounds, that Judith’s love affair with creativity began to blossom. Little did she know, those early encounters with magical books would years later ignite a passion that would define her creative future. Surrounded by vibrant life and the comforting presence of friends, the neighborhood around the Gravenberchstraat became the backdrop for her formative years, shaping her into the person she would become. Growing up,  she continued her education at the Wulfingschool at Van Idsingastraat. She completed her higher learning at Lyceum. Father Baltus was a well-known government PR official, sports commentator, real estate appraiser, and tax consultant. Mother Helen worked as a nurse and spent years at the Mytylschool; a Foundation for children with disabilities. Within the tapestry of Judith’s upbringing, compassion was not merely a virtue taught but a value deeply ingrained in her very being. From a young age, she was introduced to the profound importance of extending a helping hand, not through lectures or textbooks, but through lived experiences that touched her heart and soul. Accompanying her mother at various events aimed at assisting children with disabilities became a cornerstone of Judith’s formative years. These were not just outings; they were transformative moments that shaped her understanding of empathy and ignited her desire to make a difference in the lives of others. As she immersed herself in these settings, Judith witnessed firsthand the challenges faced by those less fortunate and the resilience with which they approached each day. She saw the joy that a simple smile or act of kindness could bring and the profound impact it could have on someone’s life. Through these interactions, her innate sense of compassion blossomed, rooted in a genuine desire to help lessen the suffering of those around her. As a young girl, Judith also accompanied her father every Sunday to the Suriname Soccer Stadium for the weekly Sunday matches. For Judith, it was a delight not necessarily to watch the matches, but to indulge in all the snacks she got from all the attending sports commentators. Judith believes her real life began when she entered the lyceum. High school; with its newfound freedom and responsibilities, can often feel like a double-edged sword. For Judith, navigating this freedom to choose proved to be a challenge that tested not only her studies but also her resilience in the face of adversity. Thrown into an environment where she was solely responsible for managing her time and staying on top of her studies, Judith found herself grappling with the weight of newfound independence. Without the watchful eyes of teachers or parents to ensure she stayed on track, she struggled to strike a balance between academics and fun. As the demands of high school piled up, Judith found herself overwhelmed and struggling to keep pace. Despite her best intentions, she found it difficult to stay motivated and focused. Before she knew it, the end of the school year arrived, and with it came the harsh reality of failure. Facing the consequences of her actions, Judith was forced to confront the sobering reality of having to repeat the school year. It was a humbling experience, one that required her to take ownership of her mistakes and acknowledge the role she played in her downfall. “This period was crucial for self-discovery and determining my direction in life,” says Judith. Judith her dream was to become a pediatrician because as a child she loved her pediatrician and wanted to be like him. However, pursuing that dream became a challenge, as she lacked guidance to explore alternative paths from the A-stream learning curriculum. Like many other young adults in Suriname, she held the belief at that time that becoming a doctor was only for students in the B-stream learning curriculum as they were smarter than those in the A-stream. Despite feeling out of her element, Judith pursued an education in economics, a field she believed she had no choice but to pursue. From this experience, she realized the importance of prioritizing personal happiness in one’s career or educational path. Determined to empower her clients, she made it her mission to guide them toward choices that align with their true passions and bring them fulfillment. After high school, Judith headed to the USA to study. She ultimately earned two Bachelor’s degrees, one in Radiologic Technology and one in Business Management at the University of Central Florida Her Impact Upon returning to Suriname, Judith had difficulty adapting to the Suriname healthcare system and soon quit working within this industry. Following this, her father invited her to join his successful Real Estate company. After working alongside her father for several years, she became a sworn real estate appraiser, one of the few women in that field at the time. Working with her father proved to be highly educational, and Judith has now been a certified real estate appraiser for over 25 years. Judith eventually decided to establish her own real estate company which is active till this day. From establishing her own real estate and appraisal company to venturing into the realm of marketing and communications, Judith’s career trajectory was marked by a relentless pursuit of growth and innovation. Armed with a newfound degree in marketing and communications and fueled by her exceptional communication skills, Judith swiftly ascended to the role of Communication Manager at a

Childhood of Rachel Tokromo “I am a soul to experience earthly life.” In agreement with Gran Gado Keduampon, a life mission is given, and the female body tasked with carrying out this mission on Earth is named Rachel Tokromo. Born on March 17, 1989, Rachel grew up in Amsterdam Zuidoost. As she approaches her 35th birthday, Rachel plans to express gratitude to her mother, Esther Macharius, for carrying, birthing, and caring for her. Esther’s background is Curaçaose, and her father, Micky Tokromo, is Javanese. Rachel’s upbringing encompassed two contrasting family backgrounds—typical Javanese characteristics on her father’s side and a lively, celebratory atmosphere on her mother’s side. Her mother, Esther, created a loving and secure environment, being the primary source of support in Rachel’s life. Despite her parents’ separation and her father’s absence during her formative years, Rachel’s mother ensured a visual representation of her paternal half-sister Ivory Tokromo’s existence. Her Impact Rachel’s introspective journey inspired the creation of a platform dedicated to women’s self-discovery. Founded in 2015, MAMI WATA evolved into a hub for wellness events and retreats by 2017. Rachel firmly believes nurturing self-love paves the way for understanding others, fostering harmony within ourselves and the world. Her life experiences and interactions, both offline and through the platform, provide valuable insights into individuals’ inner struggles in asserting themselves. Recognizing the challenge of grasping abstract concepts like personal development and spirituality, Rachel designs events and activities to make these ideas tangible and accessible. Rachel’s commitment to innovation is evident in her participation in the OneShot investment acceleration program to develop MA-AISA, a VR game designed to guide individuals towards authenticity. Growth through experience Rachel’s educational journey led her through primary school, followed by a decision to pursue VMBO Theoretical Art. A high school internship when she was 14 in a local youth center called Tha Spot Jongeren Plaza sparked her interest in organizing and producing events. She kept volunteering after her internship at the local youth center. Here, Rachel honed her communication and leadership skills, fostering a sense of shared responsibility. This fell to Angelo Bromet, who saw her working at the Kwakoe Festival and took the initiative to take her on to help further develop her skillset and network in the entertainment and art & culture industry. Rachel faced uncertainties during her academic and early career years. Her transition into adulthood brought challenges; she struggled with self-doubt, unsure if she was on the right path and not secure in her skillset and work. It led to a pause in education and a period of unemployment. Attempting to rebuild her life, she started working as a childcare provider independently but faced financial struggles and accumulated debts of up to € 30.000,-. One significant day, Rachel was sitting on her couch, painting her nails, when she heard a clear voice saying, “Rachel, only you can make yourself happy.” She then stood up, walked to the bathroom, and looked at herself in the mirror. Looking deeply into her eyes, she said, “I admit I am unhappy.” The tears rolling down her cheeks were tears of relief, feeling as if blocks were lifting off her shoulders. While crying, she asked herself what she needed to do to find happiness again; the same voice suddenly said, “Start with things you have control over.” Subsequently, she began making the following decisions and steps: Tackle debts, Exit the relationship if it’s no longer working, Stop the childcare and go back into the arts & culture, And spend a year Soul Searching to rediscover who she truly is. Take off the mask and live authentically. Along the way, she confronted challenges, including the absence of a father-daughter relationship, but emerged stronger through spiritual discoveries and meaningful conversations. Closing Remarks Rachel The eyes are the gateway to the soul. Stand in front of the mirror and look deep into your eyes. Look into your soul and ask yourself, ‘Am I happy with who is standing in front of the mirror right now?’ If the answer is no, that’s okay. Just feel all the emotions. Give yourself permission to feel all the emotions and remind yourself that these feelings are part of human existence. It’s okay. These feelings will be temporary. There is tremendous power in decision-making. The outcome of your day, your year, and your entire life is largely defined by the sum of your decision-making and the actions you take along the way. Make today the decision to design your life from your essence. After you’ve made that decision, commit to doing five things each day that will help you live your true life. Name things as they are and be radically honest with yourself. If you’re honest with yourself, you will get from where you are to where you want to be. That honesty can be painful but know you have a support system. The Creator, your first support system trust that you will be given the strength, insights, and guidance to do what needs to be done. Keep things simple. One step at a time. You got this! Entrepreneurs Impact Entrepreneur’s Impact is the weekly go-to source for entrepreneurial impactful stories, insights, and inspiration powered by OneShot International. Whether you’re seeking expert advice, exploring business stories, or looking for a dose of inspiration to get started with your business idea or grow an established business, our blog is here to inform and engage. Join us every week as we delve into fascinating stories, lessons learned, and valuable tips with the entrepreneurs who are making a great impact. Get ready to embark on a journey of knowledge and discovery with us! In the weekly editions of the Entrepreneurs Impact, we will dive together into the story of Entrepreneurs and CEOs of businesses that embark on sustainable solutions for local and global problems. Weekly blogs will be published in the rubrics Entrepreneur Impact, Ideas & Opinions, and News & Media.  Before we wrap up, we want to express our heartfelt gratitude to you, our incredible OneShot

Childhood of Quemara Louisville Quemara Ramona Louisville was born on December 6, 1992, in Paramaribo, Suriname. She is the eldest child of her mother, Marcia Walden, and the only child of her father, Ramon Louisville. After being the only child for over 9 years and receiving all the attention and energy from her parents, Quemara had to adjust to having two younger sisters in the house. Describing herself as a calm young woman dedicated to love, helpfulness, and positivity, Quemara believes in finding something positive in everything one does. These values are not only imparted to her two children but to everyone she encounters in daily life, be it her sisters, family, colleagues, or students. Her childhood and adolescence were enjoyable for Quemara. She experienced a pleasant upbringing, playing on the streets with friends, and exploring her creativity. Despite a strict upbringing, Quemara had all her needs met, leading her to appreciate things from a young age. In her youth, she engaged in various sports, including Kung Fu lessons with her father and badminton at SCVU. Her father, a lifelong sportsman and retired FIFA referee, tried to interest her in the soccer world, even buying her soccer shoes as gifts. However, soccer did not resonate with Quemara, and she did not pursue a career as an arbiter. Having another child in the house after 9 years was an adjustment for Quemara. Despite initial challenges, she embraced her role with love and responsibility, vowing to support her sisters always. Quemara took the responsibility to simplify study materials for her sisters, so it would be less difficult for them to go through the educational journey, fostering a strong and supportive bond. Their agreement for life is to handle minor disagreements without escalating into major conflicts. As a dedicated student, Quemara did well in school and is currently in the final phase of the Bachelor of Business Administration program at Hogeschool ABC. Due to her competencies, she has been admitted to the Master’s Program in Accounting at FHR program through her work. Despite her calm attitude and academic focus, she was adopted by different peer groups in each class, keeping up a high standard of performance and resisting peer pressure. As the supportive individual that she is, she invested her afternoons and Saturdays supporting and guiding fellow students in subjects where they needed assistance, contributing to collective success in the final year exams. Her Impact From her teenage years, Quemara harbored the idea of becoming an entrepreneur, though she hadn’t yet determined the specific field. At the age of 15, she landed her most memorable summer job, archiving old videos and photos in the administration department. However, her creative and dynamic spirit quickly revealed that these tasks were not her calling. The television department staff noticed the discomfort and swiftly took action. Quemara was introduced to recording and editing tasks, leading her to work at Apintie for over 6 years. Later, she offered her services as a freelancer and gained additional expertise while employed at Intersnap, contributing to many enjoyable times and productions. Quemara started working at a young age, despite her father’s initial disapproval of a steady job. Eventually, she balanced work and studies, exploring various positions. The entrepreneurial spirit persisted, with Quemara constantly seeking ways to make her work her own and exploring freelancing possibilities. Later, Quemara and her mother and sisters started baking together. Observing her mother’s catering business provided insight into operations and planning, further fueling her entrepreneurial aspirations. Eventually, she recognized a demand for assistance with schoolwork and decided to turn it into a business after observing diverse enterprises. Thus, she began helping people at their homes for a small fee, leading to the conceptualization of Upward Institute. Upward Institute was officially launched on December 17, 2022. Offering academic support at all levels, it actively guides and assists students with their studies. Additionally, the institute provides courses on various subjects such as Presentation Techniques, Taxes, Professional Letters, Communication Skills, and more. The teachers, hailing from diverse fields, share their knowledge and skills with the people of Suriname. Upward Institute aims to make a positive impact on the growth and progress of mainly young Surinamese individuals, emphasizing not only education but also social and creative aspects through various organized activities. Quemara is not only the co-founder of Upward Institute but also the founder of KayJi Business Cleaning & Professional Services. Established on December 13, 2023, this cleaning company goes beyond cleaning by incorporating an academy, enabling industry job seekers to acquire skills that go beyond a lifetime of being a cleaner. In addition to her ventures, Quemara has a passion for design. She has designed reports, calendars, certificates, and other documents for various schools and businesses, leading to the creation of Impulse Communication & Marketing Hub. The company fosters communication and collaborations between businesses. Upward Institute is located at Alexander Samuelsstraat 36a in Paramaribo North. Growth through experience “Wang Ogri e Tjar Wang Bung.” As a budding entrepreneur, your life undergoes a transformation in the sense that you have to set things in motion and invest a considerable amount of time in your business, especially if you have a family and a job. Balancing all these aspects can be challenging. Sacrifices must be made, making it crucial for effective communication among all parties involved. Due to the busy nature of various enterprises, Quemara’s relationship suffered, eventually leading to its breakdown. Quemara channels negative thoughts and energy, particularly during stressful times and challenges, into positive energy, investing it in keeping her businesses running. In stressful situations, Quemara strives to focus on positive aspects to attract positivity. This approach has allowed her to dedicate more time and energy to her business, realizing the set goals that will offer Quemara and her children a promising future. Upward Institute has also experienced growth in the business. The number of students has increased from 6 to 20, availing themselves of Upward Institute’s services regularly. Subsequently, there was further growth from 20 to 35

Childhood of Rogier Born on August 1, 1991, to Ingrid Jadi and Ramon Mahangi, Rogier’s family background is rooted in a blend of professional and entrepreneurial experiences. His father, Ramon Mahangi, served at Stichting Machinale Landbouw (SML) in charge of exports, While Ingrid, his mother, focused on being a full-time mother after first pursuing entrepreneurship. In 2015, Rogier tied the knot with his business partner, Vanessa Souda. Their connection traces back to their time at the MULO school, and for over 17 years, they have navigated life together, evolving from friends to life and business partners. Together, they have settled life’s journey, upgrading from friends to business partners. This love story has endured successes and challenges, evolving from youth to maturity and from boyfriend and girlfriend to husband and wife. Raising a daughter, they enjoy the joys of Parenting together. Rogier and Vanessa are an example of a successful relationship, both personally and professionally, breaking the stereotype that couples cannot manage a successful business together. Rogier was born and raised in Tammenga, a neigbourhood in the capital of Suriname. He understands the value of having strong cultural roots. Apart from their joint commercial ventures. For Rogier, understanding one’s origins is crucial, forming an integral part of one’s identity. He believes that as you grow, you discover there is more to life beyond the initial religious teachings received at home. Growing a broader perspective becomes essential. Guided by his cultural background, Rogier incorporates daily quotes into his life philosophy. One such phrase is “Esi fu sjie, ma no esi fu piki,” translating to ‘observe before making a statement or taking actions.” Another principle he lives by is “A ati bron fu tide, leb’en gi tamara,” encouraging the practice of letting emotions settle before responding calmly at a later time. Recognizing that impulsive actions may result from stronger emotions, Rogier emphasizes the importance of a measured approach. Furthermore, his mantra “Te y’e nyang, nyang naga trawan” reinforces the idea of sharing, emphasizing the collective nature of community and cooperation. These principles, deeply rooted in Rogier’s upbringing and experiences, shape his approach to life and guide his interactions with the world. Growing up in Tammenga, Rogier’s childhood was a mix of wonder and joy. In a bustling family of three brothers and one sister, he delighted in the connection, surrounded by the hustle and bustle of business-minded siblings. With their strong bond, they still support each other and fill the gaps where necessary. His early years were filled with excitement through family vacations, energetic games with neighbors, and more. Rogier’s educational journey started in kindergarten at the Prakiki School, went to primary school at Polanenschool, and finished with MULO at Christus Koning School. As he progressed through his schooling, he attended the Algemene Middelbare School (AMS) for his college education before continuing his studies at the IBW University of Applied Sciences to earn an HBO degree. Lastly, at the AKAMA University, he obtained his Bachelor of Science in International Business. From Superhero to Human Rogier once perceived his parents, particularly his father, as superheroes. However, at the tender age of 16, life dealt him a transformative blow when his father suffered a stroke. Witnessing his idol’s vulnerability, Rogier confronted the harsh reality that even superheroes had flaws. This challenging period deepened the bond between father and son, and Rogier took on the joint role of caregiver. In the final months leading up to his father’s passing, they had heartfelt father-son moments together, intense. Despite the pain of loss, Rogier found comfort, knowing his father was finally free from suffering. The everlasting spirit and determination exhibited by his father, Ramon Mahangi, left an enduring impact. Even on his deathbed, Ramon blessed Rogier to forge ahead, carrying invaluable lessons and guidance into every aspect of his life. Rogier’s entrepreneurial spirit flourished from his school days. Known for his trademark of always smelling good, he leveraged this quality to kickstart his business, initially selling perfumes and DVDs while still in school. After A period of time in government service, Rogier realized he had reached his ceiling. In collaboration with his partner, Vanessa Mahangi,  they ventured into the import/export of cosmetics, eventually establishing their own cosmetic company in 2015. Their enterprise, Scents of Essence (SoE), extended to diverse branches, including an online marketing platform and a Ritual Shop in Connection Mall. Alongside these ventures, Rogier and his partner delved into the car rental business in 2017, starting with one car and swiftly expanding to three within a few months. The Car Rental operation, growing both locally and internationally, extended its reach to Curaçao, Guyana, and Barbados. Rogier became a shareholder in his brother’s company “AIM Industrial Solutions” focused on construction and electrical installations, later rebranded as Preconsu, a construction company specializing in prefab constructions, renewable energy, and sustainable living. Expanding its wings internationally, Preconsu is making its mark in countries like Guyana and Barbados. Driven by his passion for cars, Rogier ventured into car rentals, while the construction company, fueled by a response to demand, aims to address housing shortages in Suriname. With a focus on providing sustainable homes for young professionals, Preconsu has evolved to meet the needs of entrepreneurs seeking office spaces, catering to those facing challenges of land ownership or insufficient capital. His Impact The first thing to take into consideration before taking action is the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). For Preconsu, a project goes beyond the typical frameworks of a building company; it is also a Green Investment Foundation dedicated to balancing environmental and human environments. Preconsu is a construction maze that creates a sustainable symphony rather than just laying bricks and beams. Its buildings are adorned with solar panels, which serve as both a stylish accent and an effective means of reducing domestic energy usage. Preconsu operates with a thoughtful knowledge that, in the absence of sustainable steps, we run the risk of permanent consequences due to the rising threat of global warming. As such, each building project is like an

Childhood of Rawle Dundas Rawle Andre Dundas, born in Guyana on October 28th, 1965, shares his life story as a pastor’s kid, flight attendant, and husband with 5 children.  His full name, Rawle Andre Dundas, includes the French name Andre, meaning “manly,” he is particular about accentuating the E. Throughout his professional life, he predominantly uses the name Rawle. In more personal settings, particularly from primary school and growing up, he is affectionately called Andy by those who know him well, whether from church or childhood. His father is Rufus Leon Dundas (88) and his mother was Hycinth Dundas. He recently realized that he may have relatives in Suriname when someone bearing his mother’s maiden name, Pickering, reached out to him. Rawle was born in Georgetown, Guyana, and lived there. Rawle Andre Dundas has had the opportunity to travel around the world as part of his first job where he served as a flight attendant from 1984 to 1997 on board the national airline. While working, he also pursued his education, growing up before entering the Adult world. Rawle was deeply involved in church activities, being the child of a former pastor. He actively participated in youth leadership from his teenage years and held the position of head prefect at his high school. A reserved individual by nature, Rawle is quick to step in and help when there is a need or opportunity. Rawle has a happy marriage with his wife, who is in the US while he resides in Guyana. They plan to establish a base and retirement platform in Guyana within the next two years. Despite the distance, they maintain frequent communication and travel back and forth. Rawle, also known as Andy, has four children and one stepchild from his wife. Rawle has siblings and is the second one of four children. His older brother is Leon and he is currently residing in the UK. After a year Rawle came along,  Then there’s Denise Bonita, the only girl in the crew and the last sibling is also a boy. Around 2015, they established a family WhatsApp group to stay connected because his brother initially resided in Jamaica, and his younger brother was in Canada. With family members spread across the USA, Grenada, and the UK, they would often visit each other every year or every other year. While they conversed every week, the primary purpose was to foster good communication and maintain strong family ties. Growing up as pastor’s children, many of their activities revolved around the church. With two services on Sunday, occasional Sunday afternoon events, Wednesday and Friday church services, and Saturday visitations, their schedule was quite busy. Despite the church-centered lifestyle, their parents ensured they had a social life, allowing them to engage in sports like cricket, badminton, athletics, and some football. Rawle did not pursue music, but his siblings were musically inclined, with one playing the drums and the others excelling in singing and playing instruments. Family gatherings and activities were common during holidays, creating a strong feeling of unity. As they grew older, Rawle developed a love for leadership and, despite not being very outgoing, he would step in when he saw a need. At the age of 17 or 18, he became the vice president of the Youth Society for the country’s churches, leading to a significant trip to Mexico in 1983. This international experience exposed him to different cultures and perspectives, fostering friendships with people from around the World. To fund the trip, Rawle’s group organized various activities, including grass-cutting, selling secondhand clothes, holding fundraisers, and organizing a concert. The experience not only enriched his life but also taught him valuable skills in planning, project management, and independence at a young age. Despite a tempting proposal to stay in the US during the return journey, Rawle’s commitment to his promise and responsibility to bring back what he learned led him back to Guyana to serve the church. This experience marked a transition out of high school and into the World of work, providing important lessons that shaped his life. Rawle and his team did not have the word “entrepreneurship” back then. However, as he discusses entrepreneurship now, it becomes apparent that they were entrepreneurs at that time. They did not receive sponsorship from churches, banks, or large organizations. Instead, they had to find a way to generate the necessary funds. Rawle and his team engaged in sales, particularly clothing and food, successfully raising the money required to independently travel to Mexico. In the realm of academics and extracurricular activities, Rawle reflects on his experiences, carefully choosing the term to convey that it wasn’t just about fun but also involved significant learning. With a mother who was a teacher, emphasis was placed on completing tasks diligently, striving for excellence, and excelling in school. Primary school, covering grades one to five, proved relatively easy for him, who emerged as a top performer. Transitioning to high school brought new opportunities, sparking excitement about involvement in drama, class leadership, athletics, and even joining the first boys’ choir in the school. Throughout high school, Rawle actively participated in class and house leadership, showcasing his versatility. In the highest level, sixth form, he was elected as the school’s head prefect, indicating his successful engagement in leadership roles. Despite not always performing at the highest level academically throughout high school, Rawle learned valuable lessons. In one term, he did not perform well due to a lack of focus, but the experience taught him the importance of applying oneself. Realizing the need for focus and effort, he bounced back and succeeded in subsequent years. This taught him the crucial lesson that results don’t happen automatically; one must work toward them with dedication. His Impact At the age of 18, Rawle had his first unplanned entrepreneurial venture, gaining valuable lessons from the experience. Despite his parents not being inherently entrepreneurial, he acquired the basics of money and systems management from his methodical father, who held an office admin manager

Childhood of Virgil Niekoop Virgil Niekoop was born on January 9, 1981, in Paramaribo, Suriname. His father, Mario Niekoop, worked at the Hospital (A.Z.), and his mother, Carmen Niekoop-Veldkamp, worked at the insurance company Assuria, formerly known as NEN. Virgil has a sister, Serafija Niekoop, who was crowned Miss Suriname in 1999. The bond between Virgil and his sister is very harmonious, and they always support each other, no matter what.  Virgil describes his childhood as very good and peaceful. He was raised in a complete family where his parents were always together. Virgil grew up on Joerawanstraat in Uitvlugt, which was an intimate community (close-knit). He often visited his grandparents at Reeberg (Reeberg is situated near the village Koewarasan in Suriname), which he always looked forward to. At Reeberg, his grandfather was involved in livestock farming and planted Brazilian papaya, which he was the first to introduce in Suriname. Virgil was partly raised by his paternal grandmother, Grandma Ilse Niekoop, who lived in Limesgracht. He spent part of his youth with her as well. Some highlights of his childhood include prankish playful activities he engaged in at the Rodastreet, such as transferring fish from the gutter to his father’s aquarium and catching birds. During New Year’s, chicks were also cruelly killed with firecrackers. But these were all typical childhood activities in which he engaged. At Bernadette School, he was quite a difficult (troublesome) boy and didn’t receive the attention he truly needed. He was seen more as a difficult child seeking attention, which was perceived as troublesome by the teachers at the school. At a young age, Virgil experienced bullying at school he was placed in the “slow” row by the teachers instead of being treated like everyone else. This led to him seeing a psychologist as a young boy. The psychologist provided the necessary support, even visiting the school and informing the teachers of the pedagogical skills that needed to be applied. Despite some improvements, there were still issues with the director of the school. As a precautionary measure from the psychologist, Virgil was transferred to Petunia School. There, the treatment was more pleasant, because as a child, he finally received the attention and support he needed at school. This resulted in him completing classes from the fifth grade of GLO to NATIN, where Virgil studied Land Surveying. His Impact Every weekend while Virgil was a 15-year-old NATIN student, he worked by mowing his neighbors’ gardens. He gathered his school buddies every weekend to work together and earn money because he loved to maintain gardens. Virgil continued to attend school and did this on the weekends and vacations for four years. Virgil requested his mother’s permission to take a year off from school after finishing NATIN so he could explore what he could accomplish with gardening. After working once a week for his own money, now 23 years later, he is a master of his field. It all began for Virgil as a young boy, maintaining his own garden at home, until a neighbor asked him to do hers too. After completing the work, he was rewarded with 1.50 guilders. At the time, that was worth a lot. This reward inspired Virgil that by mowing verges and maintaining gardens, he could earn his own money, so he began mowing verges for neighbors. The payments ranged from 2.50 guilders to 3 guilders, and the most he ever received was 9.50 guilders. In addition to earning money, Virgil was also inspired by his late Guru, his uncle Hesdy Veldkamp. He was fascinated by the way his uncle designed gardens. Uncle Hesdy inspired Virgil by giving him a brushcutter at the time. From a young age, Virgil’s motto was ‘ease serves humanity,’ and he differentiated himself from other gardeners by completely clearing away all weeds and leaving the gardens or verges completely neat and organized. That was the inspiration for Virgil to start a cleaning company, where he would tell his clients to sit back, relax, and work until the customer’s satisfaction was fully achieved. He goes the extra mile to satisfy his customers. Virgil’s Gardening has recently undergone a name change and is now operating under the name Virgil’s Landscaping. The services encompassed by landscaping are quite extensive, and over the years, Virgil Niekoop has expanded his operations. They now offer various services such as garden architecture, earthmoving, planting, delivery of sand types, tree pruning, heavy equipment rental, and more. Growth through experience Virgil’s main goal was to generate publicity in order to increase the popularity of his business. Branding every business equipment in his possession the same color was one of his strategies. This helps differentiate Virgil’s Gardening cars and trucks from others because of their orange-yellow color. The company’s achievements are also related to the way its colors and brand have been seen over time. This presents his abilities and creates a unique brand for him in the community. Getting 600 clients in a month was one of the highlights of Virgil’s Landscaping experience. Since COVID certain tasks have shifted, so there is now less garden maintenance and more focus on heavy equipment as part of the expansion of the business. Another growth aspect that came over the years is that currently, Virgil’s Landscaping has about 30 employees. Finding and attracting the right employees to provide the same quality of work for which Virgil’s Gardening is known for has proven to be one of the company’s challenges. It has been discovered that sometimes the given work does not meet the company’s criteria for quality. Another unpleasant work-related incident that Virgil experienced was breaking his nose when a tree branch fell on his neck when he was chopping it. On another occasion a little miscalculation led to damage to a customer’s roof. He was compelled by all of this to obtain accident insurance coverage for the business but never gave up his faith. Closing Remarks Virgil Golden Rule: Trust your abilities, have faith in yourself, and pay attention