21 Oct 2026

ARUBA’S TALENT SHINES FOR MENTAL WELLNESS AT RESPALDO’S ANNUAL SONG FESTIVAL 2026

On Saturday, October 17, 2026, the Renaissance Convention Center vibrated with melody, emotion, and unity as Fundacion Salud Mental Aruba (Respaldo) hosted the second edition of Let’s Sing for Mental Health 2.0. Timed around World Mental Health Day, the festival showcased how music and singing can reduce stress, bring joy, and foster deep community connection.

Accompanied by a live band led by Musical Director Danny Koolman, 20 courageous contestants took the stage across three categories to share their talent and promote mental well-being.

Festival Highlights & Winners

Beyond bringing the island together, the event crowned top talent across Youth, Amateur, and Professional divisions, as well as a crowd favorite award:

  • Most Popular Award: Anne Steenhuizen (representing Respaldo), who won through ticket sales.
  • Youth Category:
    • 1st Place: Aarela Ramos – “Goodness of God”
    • 2nd Place: Melody Franken – “Drenta den mi cas”
  • Amateur Category:
    • 1st Place: Myroukshilane Toms – “Be My Baby” (Representing Horacio Oduber Hospital – HOH)
    • 2nd Place: Rosana Croes – “Así Fue” (Representing Praktijkondersteuner Huisartsenzorg – POH)
    • 3rd Place: Aaron Giel – “Kingston Town”
  • Professional Category:
    • 1st Place: Jelitza Croes – “Hopelessly Devoted to You” (Representing Korps Politie Aruba – KPA)
    • 2nd Place: Romeo Kilayko – “Skyfall” (Representing Horacio Oduber Hospital – HOH)
    • 3rd Place: Anne Steenhuizen – “Valerie” (Representing Respaldo)

Music as Healing

Respaldo’s initiative reminds us all that mental health isn’t just about treating illness—it’s about emotional well-being,creativity, and community support. By lifting their voices, every performer helped break the stigma surrounding mental health in Aruba.

A special thank you goes out to the organizers, band members, generous sponsors, and the entire community for making this unforgettable night a resounding success.

Let’s keep singing, connecting, and supporting one another!