THE NETHERLANDS (THE HAGUE) – Minister Plenipotentiary Drs. Gracita R. Arrindell, attended the 11th edition of the FRED Job Fair & Conference, held on October 24, 2026, at the World Trade Center Rotterdam.
The event brought together job seekers, employers and organizations from across the Dutch Caribbean and the Netherlands. It provided a platform for participants to explore career opportunities, connect with prospective employers and learn about professional pathways in the region.
More than 45 companies and organizations were announced as participants, representing sectors including healthcare, finance, information technology, hospitality, legal services and public services. The programme also included conference sessions, workshops and presentations.
FRED has the primary goal to stimulate the (r)emigration of students and professionals in the Netherlands to the Dutch Caribbean. It operates from the premise of creating a physical platform for connecting and networking to motivate and stimulate this group to return and help with the further development of the islands.
Minister Plenipotentiary Arrindell’s attendance reflected Sint Maarten’s engagement with initiatives that connect Dutch Caribbean talent with employment opportunities and organizations across the Kingdom.
“I have been committed, since assuming office, to striving together with the Cabinet to serve as an effective liaison between our local diaspora and the public -private sectors in Sint Maarten.
“Our Cabinet has been proactively building a data base, while strengthening our outreach to students and members of the diaspora. This requires time.
“Kudos to the organizers of the FRED Conference. The success of this years' s event demonstrates and underscores that a persistent belief in your vision, coupled with dedication and perseverance, pays off,” Minister Plenipotentiary Arrindell said on Sunday.
