ORANJESTAD, Aruba — The Kiona Croes Graduation marks an important academic achievement after she successfully defended her thesis and earned a Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of Aruba.
Kiona S. Croes completed the Organization, Governance and Management programme within the Faculty of Arts and Science.
She successfully defended her thesis on July 8, 2026.
Research Focuses on Women in Leadership
Croes’ thesis was titled “Invisible Barriers to Leadership: The Role of Imposter Syndrome in Shaping Women’s Leadership Experiences in Aruba.”
Her research examined how imposter syndrome affects women holding leadership positions across the island.
Imposter syndrome refers to feelings of self-doubt and the belief that personal achievements are undeserved, even when a person has demonstrated the necessary skills and experience.
The study explored how these internal doubts interact with external factors such as workplace gender expectations, limited female representation in leadership positions and Aruba’s small, closely connected community.
Sixteen Women Leaders Interviewed
As part of her research, Croes interviewed 16 women working in leadership roles in Aruba’s public, private and nonprofit sectors.
The interviews examined whether the participants experienced imposter syndrome, how they managed those feelings and how self-doubt influenced their identities as leaders.
Croes also investigated how the women personally defined success despite the challenges and uncertainties they encountered.
Her research aimed to show that imposter syndrome should not be viewed only as an individual confidence issue.
Instead, the study considered how structural and cultural conditions can contribute to the experience.
Systematic Solutions Highlighted
The thesis suggested that addressing imposter syndrome may require broader workplace and institutional solutions.
These may include mentorship programmes, supportive employment policies and increased opportunities for women to participate in leadership and decision-making roles.
Such approaches could help organizations address the underlying cultural and structural factors influencing women’s leadership experiences.
Graduation Committee
The graduation committee consisted of Valerie Maduro, MA; Mandy Lacle, MSc; and Keaneeh Krozendijk, MSc.
Following the successful Kiona Croes Graduation, Croes expressed appreciation to the lecturers in the Organization, Governance and Management department.
She also thanked the professionals who guided and supported her throughout her studies, as well as everyone inside and outside the University of Aruba who contributed to her academic achievement.
