ORANJESTAD (AAN): On Monday morning, marking the first day of the 2026 school year, the National School Dande Paranda traveled across Aruba on a trailer equipped with speakers, visiting schools thanks to the efforts of the Go Cultura Foundation.
That morning proved to be a truly special experience for everyone involved. The National Dande Paranda represented the voices of the future, as the stage, microphone, and confidence were given to the winners of the Children’s and Youth Dande Festival. What they shared exceeded all expectations—delivering performances filled with purity, courage, pride, and identity.
Young singers Cislainey, Alyna, Elias, Shalixiënne, Lizienne, and Georvin performed with heartfelt emotion, captivating both Aruba and the schoolchildren who listened attentively. Go Cultura Foundation expressed deep gratitude for being able to reach nine schools, each of which opened their doors, hearts, and communities to the National Dande Paranda.
Special appreciation was extended to the dedicated teachers and students, whose warmth cannot be taught from books; to the children, young singers, parents, and families who trusted Go Cultura Foundation with their children; and to the school administrations and teachers for their respectful and welcoming reception.
Thanks were also shared with the musicians and choir members, Thunder & Lightning for professional sound management, driver Darwin for ensuring safe and calm transportation, and the entire Go Cultura Foundation team, both on the road and behind the scenes.
Gratitude was extended to the partners and sponsors who supported and believed in the vision, including Aruba Tourism Authority, Click Print Aruba, Departamento di Cultura Aruba, UNOCA Aruba, SETAR N.V., Queen Beatrix International Airport, Prime Minister and Minister of Culture Mike Eman, VNO – Representation of the Netherlands in Oranjestad, and Subway Aruba, along with everyone who contributed behind the scenes to make the day possible.
The National Dande Paranda is more than music—it is transmission, living heritage, and memory passed from hand to hand and voice to voice. On Monday morning, the children did not simply sing Dande—they planted Dande, sowing a seed deeply rooted in truth and culture.
Additional images from their visit to Colegio Cristo Rey in Savaneta are available for viewing.
Photo Credits : https://diario.aw/categories/noticia/general/paranda-nacional-di-dande-escolar-a-bishita-colegio-sagrado-curazon-na-savaneta
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