PHILIPSBURG:--- Today, Monday, June 9, 2025, at 10 am, the Minister of Finance returns to Parliament to continue discussions on the 2025 Budget. As previously stated, this version of the budget solely incorporates the amendments and modifications formally approved by Parliament in January 2025.

The Minister intends to provide a detailed breakdown of how each amendment and modification has been incorporated. This follows remarks made by Members of Parliament, suggesting that not all amendments were correctly reflected. The Minister wishes to reiterate that it is understandable that a one-to-one reconciliation may not have been immediately evident. If that were the case, there would be no need for this continued discussion, and the budget would already have been enacted.

While the Minister would have preferred to present a partially revised budget at this time, the decision was made to incorporate the amendments into the existing budget solely, to have it swiftly approved. This approach takes into account the deadline issued by the Kingdom Council of Ministers on April 30, 2025, as well as the sentiments expressed by Parliamentarians following the Minister's earlier proposal to submit a new budget with amendments. A formal budget amendment for 2025 will still be forthcoming at a later stage.

In addition to the detailed review of each amendment, the Minister will also present a comparison of the first quarter (Q1) actuals to the approved budget figures. This comparison will demonstrate that the budget, even as amended, remains realistic and aligned with the country’s financial performance to date.

As mentioned in earlier sessions, several of the amendments contained technical and numerical inconsistencies, making full incorporation challenging. Nevertheless, the Ministry of Finance has translated all approved amendments and modifications into the budget figures as accurately and comprehensively as possible.

During today’s meeting, the Minister will walk Parliament through each amendment and modification, line by line to provide full clarity and transparency. The Minister kindly asks for patience, as the session will be highly detailed, but essential to achieving mutual understanding and alignment. Owing to the fact that Parliament has already approved the incorporated amendments and modifications, the Minister is hopeful that the current round of meetings can be concise, and that the budget may move more swiftly toward final approval and enactment.

Business and Professional Women Concordia Members in Motion: Captivating Session Hosted by Danielle Chance Breaks Barriers and Ignites Growth

In a powerful and transformative event held on June 4th at Beth’s Aida Conference Room, Danielle Chance took the audience on an inspiring journey during Part 2 of her signature series on Self-Fulfilling Prophecy: Break the Belief Barrier.

The session was a masterclass in dynamic presentation, engagement, and empowerment. From the moment the doors opened, the atmosphere was vibrant, thanks to the thoughtful networking opportunity created with snacks and warm conversations.

Danielle captivated the audience with her seamless delivery, blending insightful recaps of Part 1, a comprehensive exploration of self-fulfilling prophecy, and innovative strategies to shift limiting beliefs. The session included an engaging icebreaker, lively discussions, and a moving mindset reset exercise, complete with soothing music to calm and inspire.

Key takeaways from the session included:

• Recognizing how our own beliefs and expectations shape our behavior and potential.
• Understanding the sources of limiting beliefs, whether rooted in culture, childhood, or family expectations.
• Learning actionable strategies to reframe limiting thoughts and affirm positive beliefs.
• Committing to a journey of personal growth and continuous self-improvement.

One of the highlights was a deeply emotional action reflection exercise, where participants visualized themselves breaking through imaginary barriers of self-doubt and emerging with a renewed sense of possibility. The feedback was overwhelmingly positive, and participants expressed how the session had shifted their mindset, leaving them feeling empowered and ready to grow.

Adding a beautiful closing touch, Maria Chemont offered a heartfelt reflection on her takeaways and shared her personal experiences with the audience. Her perspective added depth and resonance to the session’s impact, further enriching the collective learning and inspiration in the room.

Reflecting on the experience, Danielle shared, “I wanted to dive even deeper than before. I knew the first session had made an impact, but I was challenged to create something even more profound. Seeing the feedback from the audience was truly rewarding; it showed me how hungry people are to learn, grow, and support each other.”

The success of this session has sparked excitement for future events. More sessions are in the pipeline, as the enthusiasm for these life-changing discussions continues to grow. Danielle and her team remain committed to creating spaces where individuals can explore, challenge, and reframe their limiting beliefs, unlocking their true potential in the process.

For more information and updates on upcoming events, stay connected and join us in this empowering journey of personal transformation.

~Islandpreneur has a growing waiting list for more masterclasses.~ 

PHILIPSBURG:---  Islandpreneur proudly announces the success of its inaugural investment masterclass, From Islander to Investor.  This groundbreaking initiative aims to empower St. Maarten-based entrepreneurs, professionals, and changemakers with the tools, insights, and confidence to participate meaningfully in financial spaces and work towards achieving financial freedom. This event marks a critical step toward bridging the gap between ambition and access, creating a platform where innovation meets investment, and dreams align with strategy.

For too long, Caribbean voices have been underrepresented in wealth-building discussions. Islandpreneur is changing that narrative by creating spaces where financial literacy is not only taught but culturally contextualized. In an economic climate where access to capital remains a barrier for many in the Caribbean region, being in the right financial rooms is no longer optional—it’s essential.

This masterclass connected participants with seasoned experts and financial educators, such as the facilitator Emilio Kalmera, a financial expert and investor for over 20 years, and Member of Parliament, Hon. Ardwell Irion, the guest host.  This provided a rare and unique opportunity to ask questions to those who are committed to empowering others to become financially independent for themselves and for the island at large.

This masterclass focused on how to invest in Exchange Traded Funds (ETFs), using Interactive Brokers, which allows persons to get the money in local bank accounts. In preparation for the masterclass, additional information on what ETFs are, why it is a preferred investment strategy, a tutorial on how to set up a broker's account, and an investment risk profile assessment was shared with all attendees.

Having supported the Government of Sint Maarten in launching the St. Maarten Financial Literacy month in 2023 and continuing it in 2024, it was obvious by the overwhelming response that more information on financial literacy was needed in the community. With global geopolitics impacting markets, it became evident that having a good investment strategy is necessary, and now more than ever, to provide professionals and entrepreneurs access to capital and even as a retirement plan.

Due to the success of this masterclass, Islandpreneur will be hosting more masterclasses on finance and investment. This reinforces its mission to build a globally competitive Caribbean through education, innovation, and access. We invite stakeholders, partners, and future investors to engage in this powerful movement. The Investor’s Master Class is more than an event—it’s a key catalyst for transformation.

To officially join our community to get additional access to resources, go to https://community.islandpreneur.co, email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. for specific questions or stay connected for updates on our social media on Facebook, Instagram, or LinkedIn.

~“The 11th edition is a testament to the island’s resilience, strength, adaptability, and collective spirit!”~

PHILIPSBURG:---  SXM DOET proudly celebrated its 11th successful year of fostering community spirit, volunteerism, and positive change throughout our communities. Despite experiencing inclement weather during the official SXM DOET weekend on May 16 & 17, the initiative successfully supported 97 community projects, thanks to the unwavering dedication of over 1,500 volunteers and committed organizations.

This year, 42 projects were completed on Friday, May 16th, 29 projects on Saturday, May 17th, and the remaining 26 projects were rescheduled between May 24th and June 7th, due to heavy rainfall the island experienced on May 17. While volunteer turnout was slightly affected by the adverse weather conditions, the enthusiasm and commitment of participants remained strong, reaffirming the deep-rooted culture of volunteerism that defines SXM DOET.

A wide variety of projects were undertaken during this year’s edition, including social initiatives supporting elderly, vulnerable and differently abled groups, the operation & distribution of soup kitchens, the sprucing up and beautification of community spaces, mural paintings, and even an open house session. These diverse activities reflect the wide reach and inclusivity of SXM DOET, touching every corner of our community.

SXM DOET was honored to have the likes of diverse sectors of volunteers, including government departments, members of Parliament, and the private sector. Their participation helped to strengthen the bond between public service, civil society, and the communities they serve.

Special appreciation goes to our dedicated volunteer coaches, who worked closely with the coordination team to check in with the various NGOs and ensure the smooth execution of projects. Their behind the scenes support is vital to the success of the initiative. “Without their help, we would overlook so much, so for them, we are eternally grateful,” said the SXM DOET Project Coordination team.

“We are incredibly proud and grateful for the resilience shown by our NGOs, volunteers, sponsors, and partners,” the team added. “The weather may have changed our schedule, but it did not dampen our spirits or the impact made. The continued community support ensures that SXM DOET remains a beacon of hope and unity in our community.”

SXM DOET extends its heartfelt thanks to Oranje Fonds, Be the Change Foundation, all participating NGOs, businesses, sponsors, partners, and every volunteer who contributed their time and energy. “Without your selfless efforts, SXM DOET would not be possible. You are the heart of this movement,” the coordinators emphasized.

As the organization looks beyond the event weekend, SXM DOET encourages individuals and organizations to continue their volunteer journey through Volunteer.sx, a platform connecting passionate volunteers with meaningful causes year-round.

For more information about SXM DOET or to learn how to contribute, feel free to contact the SXM DOET Coordination Team members at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or visit www.sxmdoet.com, www.facebook.com/SXMDOET. Be sure to sign up for the newsletter to stay connected with all things SXM DOET. Here's to many more years of building a stronger, kinder, and more connected St. Maarten, together.