Rescue at Kokomo

My story

I grew up in the Netherlands and studied Artificial Intelligence. My girlfriend and I arrived in Curacao in 2017. Within the first couple of months, we came in contact with STCC and started as a volunteer. I currently work as a consultant in Business Intelligence, so during the week I spent a lot of time behind a screen. In our spare time, we like to go to the sea with our kids as much as possible. The sea life is beautiful around Curacao and we should make sure it stays like that. Helping sea turtles is an essential part of that.

My goal

As president of the board, my goal is to facilitate an organization where the field coordinator and volunteers can do what they want to do and what is needed to be done. Everything is geared toward helping as many sea turtles as possible.

Contact information:

Phone number: +599 9 564 1517

My Role

As field coördinator am I is responsable for daily operations as well for the care of the turtles in rehab.

The team of volunteers and interns is also coached by me. As inwater specialist i manage the rescues and inwater operations and provides external partners in a sustainable way acces to the turtle population of Curacao.

My Story

Yes, I look Dutch,  was born in the Netherlands in 1970, but grew up in both Holland and Curaçao and am the result of a cultural meltingpot.

I Lectured in social studies and managed innovative projects in the care of (autistic) young people.

I’ve always tried to combine my passion for people and nature, by taking my students outdoors, creating awareness, and involving and including people in activities. As field coördinator my motto is: let’s explore together and make connections, curiosity is key!

For the last 8 years, I have worked in different countries (Greece, Curacao, Spain, Barbados) in sea turtle conservation and coached volunteers and interns. I am a passionate and experienced educator, communicator and conservationist.

My Values & Beliefs

 Respect for nature

Mankind has a task and role as steward of the earth, for too long and too much we have exploited this
world, instead of exploring it in amazement. A lot is happening around us that we do not understand and
cannot control. Wonder and respect are a healthy basic attitude

Be aware of our place and take responsibility

Our influence on nature and the environment is great and the effects of our actions are sometimes
incalculable. An action or event today can have an impact for the very long term. Now is the time to
change our behaviour and it starts with education and awareness.

Restore in a realistic way

If we all contribute, there will be a positive change. If we do it step by step, it can be sustained and it will
remain fun. In handson conservation and a action driven way of working I choose a realistic approach. Achievable and goals will keep you motivated for longer!

Contact informations:

Phone number: +5999 644 7970

E-mailadress: ard.d.vreugdenhil@gmail.com

Instagram: @Ardvreugdenhil