2026 RESULTS & KNOWLEDGE FAIR RECAP
From Recovery to Readiness: Sint Maarten’s Shared Vision for the Future
Nearly a decade after Hurricanes Irma and Maria reshaped Sint Maarten’s landscape, the country is telling a new story—how innovative thinking, smart investment, and shared learning can turn devastation into a stronger, better prepared future.
That message took center stage at the Sint Maarten Trust Fund’s third annual Results and Knowledge Fair, held on February 6, 2026, at the JW Marriott. The event brought together government officials, business leaders, students, and partners to reflect on what has been achieved—and what still needs to be done. This opportunity to share evidence and lessons learned connects to the World Bank’s knowledge mandate.
Progress and Preparedness
Opening the Fair, His Excellency Governor Ajamu G. Baly spoke about how the country’s recovery efforts since 2017 have evolved. What began as an emergency response to disaster has become a broader national agenda focused on resilience, opportunity, and stronger institutions.
“What we are celebrating today is not only rebuilt assets,” Governor Baly said, “but the unity, endurance, and vision that allowed Sint Maarten to turn devastation into an opportunity to build stronger and smarter for the future.”
Discussions at the Fair acknowledged the ongoing climate risks faced by small island states, with recent storms in the Caribbean serving as a sobering reminder. Sessions focused on practical, innovative solutions—such as “ready-to-use” actions to improve waste management and risk-layered approaches in disaster risk financing—to help Sint Maarten remain stable and recover faster when future shocks occur.
Ignite Talk 1: Development Thinking | Ignite Talk 2: Waste Solutions | Ignite Talk 3: Disaster Risk Financing
Investing in the Future
Students and young job seekers played an active role in the Fair. Interactive features, including a dream job wall and small-group discussions with industry leaders, gave students the chance to ask questions, hear real-life career stories, and see how recovery investments can lead to future job opportunities.
Dr. Stella van Rijn, Rector Magnificus, University of Curacao, speaking at the “Future Ready Skills” session, said, “How do you teach children not just knowledge, but also attitude, mindset, and skills, to be ready for that dynamic environment?” This is so important, as investing in young people and connecting them to productive work is a foundation for growth and stability.
During a lively Seaside Chat on jobs and skills, leaders from both the public and private sectors spoke candidly about the need to better match education with workforce gaps. They also discussed building skills that help businesses stay strong and public institutions better support economic growth.
The Exhibit Hall showcased locally owned businesses and public institutions supported by Trust Fund–financed projects. Exhibitors demonstrated how these initiatives are creating jobs, supporting entrepreneurs, and making a real difference in communities across the island.
Ready for What Comes Next
After eight years, with the Trust Fund performing at its peak, the Fair served as both a celebration of progress and a call to action. The focus now is on documenting lessons learned, strengthening governance reforms, and aligning future investments to carry Sint Maarten forward.
The message resonated throughout the event: Sint Maarten’s journey is no longer only about rebuilding. It is about being ready for the future—together.