YOUNG ARUBAN TALENT SHINES AT CHIDREN’S AND YOUTH’S FESTIVAL DI HIMNO Y BANDERA 2025

Oranjestad, Aruba – March 15, 2024 – The Plaza Libertador Betico Croes was alive with the sound of music on March 14th as the 22nd annual “Un canto pa nos Himno y Bandera” Children’s and Youth Festival took center stage. Young singers from across the island delivered spectacular performances, competing for top honors in their respective age categories.

The festival, a celebration of Aruban patriotism and musical talent, drew a large crowd of enthusiastic supporters. The event showcased original compositions dedicated to Aruba’s anthem and flag, highlighting the cultural richness and national pride of the island.

The competition was fierce, with each participant demonstrating exceptional vocal prowess and stage presence. The winners, as determined by a panel of esteemed judges, are as follows:

Category 4-6 Years:

• Overall Winner:
  • Name: Marie-Elize Faro
  • Title: Nos Aruba e ta
  • Composer: Zulaika Geerman
  • Arranger: Zulaika Geerman
• Second Place:
  • Name: Ziah-Amila Geerman
  • Title: Un paraiso
  • Composer: Luigi Cortes
  • Arranger: Luigi Cortes
• Third Place:
  • Name: Livaya Escalona
  • Title: Aruba, un isla cant’i lama
  • Composer: Erick Escalona / Zulaika Geerman
  • Arranger: Zulaika Geerman

Category 7-9 Years:

• Overall Winner:
  • Name: Elizeë Bislip
  • Title: Cera reda, hala den
  • Composer: Afranina Henriquez
  • Arranger: Zulaika Geerman
• Second Place:
  • Name: Adeliza Henriquez
  • Title: Aruba ban canta, ban baila
  • Composer: Zulaika Geerman
  • Arranger: Zulaika Geerman
• Third Place:
  • Name: Elias Kamperveen
  • Title: Ta di nos e ta
  • Composer: Zulaika Geerman
  • Arranger: Zulaika Geerman

Category 10-12 Years:

• Overall Winner:
  • Name: Brayden Elisabeth
  • Title: Stima mi lega
  • Composer: Rygel Isabella / Jonathan Thiel
  • Arranger: Rygel Isabella
• Second Place:
  • Name: Cary-ann Buera
  • Title: Fiesta di pueblo
  • Composer: Lurena Schwengle
  • Arranger: Diego Henriquez
• Third Place:
  • Name: Thaheeli Geerman
  • Title: Piscado
  • Composer: Gino Panneflek
  • Arranger: Gino Panneflek

Category 13-17 Years:

• Overall Winner:
  • Name: Reanne Ras
  • Title: Forsa di amor y emocion
  • Composer: Lurena Schwengle
  • Arranger: Raul Piar
• Second Place:
  • Name: Maria-Christina Petrocchi
  • Title: Tempo
  • Composer: Ronwayne Kock
  • Arranger: Denny Loefstop
• Third Place:
  • Name: Isdell Hyacinme
  • Title: Aruba abo ta
  • Composer: Jhon Freddy Tobon Montoya
  • Arranger: Jaderick Croes

“The performances were truly outstanding,” said a spokesperson for Comision Promove Cultura. “These young artists have demonstrated remarkable talent and dedication, and we are incredibly proud of their achievements.”

The festival not only provided a platform for young musicians to showcase their skills but also fostered a sense of community and national pride. The Commission for the Promotion of Culture extends its congratulations to all winners, finalists, and participants. Also would like to give recognition to all Composers, arrangers and bands who made it possible for the kids.

The Commission for the Promotion of Culture is dedicated to preserving and promoting the rich cultural heritage of Aruba. Through various events and initiatives, the commission aims to foster artistic expression and cultivate a deeper appreciation for Aruban culture.