On the International Day of Persons with Disabilities
ORANJESTAD (AAN): Yesterday, Aruba joined the global community in recognizing the International Day of Persons with Disabilities, a day established by the United Nations. This observance serves as a moment of reflection and action, highlighting the rights, talents, and equal opportunities that should be accessible to everyone, regardless of physical or cognitive ability.
On Wednesday morning, the Minister of Tourism, Labor, and Transport, Mr. Wendrick Cicilia, together with Marc Figaroa, CEO of Aruba Ports Authority, and Caroll Kock from Trampolin pa Trabao, signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to provide financial support to Trampolin pa Trabao. During the same ceremony, the Minister officially handed over a kiosk located at the Welcome Plaza, enabling young people with disabilities to participate more actively and productively within the Aruban community.
Aruba is a diverse and vibrant community where creativity, talent, and skill exist in every citizen. Adults and youth with disabilities contribute meaningfully to society and the economy, and it is the shared responsibility of all to ensure that everyone receives the opportunity to participate fully.
Minister Cicilia emphasized:
“Our approach, legislation, and government policies must continue evolving to ensure economic and social participation for all. Initiatives like the One of A Kind Café at MFA Paradera show us that inclusion is not just a slogan, but a lived reality. People want to participate, feel appreciated, and have the opportunity to demonstrate that no limitation can restrict their creativity or ability.”
Creating Employment Pathways
A central priority of the Ministry of Labor is strengthening employment intermediation and creating sustainable pathways for people who face barriers entering the job market. Programs like Trampolin pa Trabao play an essential role by supporting individuals with autism, Down syndrome, or physical limitations, giving them access to meaningful employment opportunities.
“Disability does not define what a person can or cannot do. Equal opportunity must be accessible to everyone. Trampolin pa Trabao is a key partner in building the inclusive labor market that Aruba deserves,” said Minister Cicilia.
More Than a Workplace: A Tourism-Focused Collaboration
Through the collaboration between the Ministry of Tourism and Aruba Ports Authority (APA), steps are being taken to incorporate inclusion into the visitor experience. The Welcome Plaza—soon to undergo renovations—will become a space where tourists can connect meaningfully with Aruba’s local community.
Through Trampolin pa Trabao, individuals with disabilities will showcase and sell handmade crafts and souvenirs directly to cruise visitors. Assigned tourism officers will guide tourists to the kiosk, ensuring visibility, engagement, and economic opportunity.
Minister Cicilia added:
“This initiative brings us closer to the inclusive community we strive for—one where adults and youth with physical or cognitive limitations can participate fully and access opportunities that highlight their value.”
Photo Credit : https://diario.aw/categories/noticia/general/minister-wendrick-cicilia-a-otorga-kiosco-na-trampolin-pa-trabao
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