Jan-Willem Breure, Jandino Asporaat and Influencer Monica Geuze Attend Tur Mucha Mester Kome Fundraiser for Children in Curaçao

On 28 November 2023, Curaçao witnessed a powerful display of solidarity as renowned figures from the worlds of entertainment and philanthropy came together to support Tur Mucha Mester Kome (TMMK) at its annual fundraiser. Among the high-profile guests were Jan-Willem Breure, founder and director of the Septimius Awards, comedian and actor Jandino Asporaat, and celebrated Dutch actress and presenter Monica Geuze. The event, aimed at raising funds to combat childhood hunger, brought more than €150,000 to support TMMK’s mission of providing nutritious meals to underprivileged school-going children in Curaçao.

The evening was more than just a glamorous gathering—it was a timely response to the increasing levels of poverty in Curaçao, where rising costs of living and economic challenges have left many families struggling to make ends meet. In this climate, TMMK’s role has never been more crucial, and the fundraiser was a vital step in ensuring that the organization can continue its life-changing work.

A Night of Glitz for a Worthy Cause

As the stars made their way down the red carpet, there was a palpable sense of urgency and purpose underlying the evening’s elegance. Monica Geuze, a prominent figure in Dutch media, arrived in a striking black dress, embodying the evening’s balance of style and substance. Her participation in the fundraiser underscored the importance of using one’s platform to draw attention to pressing social issues like childhood hunger. Known for her influence in the entertainment industry, Geuze’s presence brought a wave of public interest to the cause, highlighting the growing need for support as poverty rates climb in Curaçao.

Jan-Willem Breure, a visionary figure in the creative world, also lent his support to the fundraiser. As the founder of the prestigious Septimius Awards, Breure has long been an advocate for social impact initiatives, and his involvement in the event reinforced the global responsibility of using influence for good. His appearance at the fundraiser reflected a broader message: the fight against hunger requires not just local, but international awareness and action.

Jandino Asporaat, one of Curaçao’s most beloved entertainers, took center stage as the host of the evening. Asporaat’s blend of humor, heart, and dedication helped create an uplifting atmosphere throughout the event. Having risen to fame in both Curaçao and the Netherlands, Asporaat’s commitment to giving back to his home community is well-known, and his involvement as host brought the perfect balance of entertainment and heartfelt advocacy. Asporaat’s presence resonated deeply with the audience, reminding everyone of the power of unity and the importance of community-driven solutions to poverty.

Addressing the Growing Need in Curaçao

Curaçao, like many other parts of the world, has faced economic hardship in recent years. The increase in poverty, exacerbated by factors such as inflation, job losses, and the lingering effects of the global pandemic, has hit families hard. In particular, children from low-income households are among the most vulnerable, often going without adequate nutrition. This is where TMMK steps in with its unwavering mission: ensuring that every child has access to three nutritious meals a day, year-round.

For these children, access to proper nutrition is not just about physical health—it is directly tied to their ability to succeed in school and break the cycle of poverty. Hunger creates barriers to learning, affects concentration, and can severely limit a child’s opportunities later in life. TMMK understands this, and the charity has worked tirelessly to bridge the gap for families who cannot provide their children with sufficient meals.

The funds raised at the November fundraiser, over €150,000, are crucial to keeping TMMK’s programs running smoothly. The organization relies on donations and community partnerships to provide nutritious meals daily to underprivileged children. As poverty rates continue to rise, the need for expanded resources becomes even more urgent, making events like this fundraiser a lifeline for the children of Curaçao.

The Power of Celebrity and Community

The presence of public figures like Breure, Asporaat, and Geuze helped shine a spotlight on TMMK’s cause, but the evening’s true heroes were the donors and supporters who came together to make a tangible impact. In attendance were philanthropists, business leaders, and community members, all unified by a shared commitment to ending childhood hunger. By leveraging the influence of celebrities and the power of local collaboration, the fundraiser succeeded in creating a strong sense of community.

Asporaat’s role as host not only entertained the audience but also connected them to the importance of giving back. His deep ties to the island made his involvement all the more personal, as he urged attendees to consider the long-term implications of their generosity. The funds raised will go directly to providing year-round meals to children in need, allowing them to focus on their education without the constant worry of where their next meal will come from.

A Step Forward in the Fight Against Hunger

As the night came to a close, there was a sense of accomplishment among the attendees, but also a recognition that the work is far from over. The more than €150,000 raised is a significant contribution, yet the need remains great as poverty continues to affect countless families across Curaçao. TMMK’s mission extends beyond immediate relief—it aims to create a future where no child goes to bed hungry, and every child has the opportunity to succeed.

Through events like this fundraiser and the continued involvement of public figures like Jan-Willem Breure, Jandino Asporaat, and Monica Geuze, the fight against childhood hunger in Curaçao can gain momentum. The success of the fundraiser is a testament to what can be achieved when community, philanthropy, and celebrity converge for a worthy cause. With ongoing support, TMMK is poised to make an even greater impact in the years to come, ensuring that every child on the island has access to the nourishment they need to thrive.