ACURIL LIV honors Nilda Maria Jesurun Pinto, a pioneering educator, radio producer, and cultural guardian from Willemstad, Curaçao. Born in Otrobanda in 1918, she devoted her life to preserving and promoting the Papiamento language and oral traditions of the Dutch Caribbean. In a colonial era where Dutch dominated education and public life, Jesurun Pinto recognized the beauty and value of local culture—especially for the island’s children.

As one of the first to collect and publish children’s stories, songs, and games in Papiamento, she gave voice to the island’s heritage. Her landmark collections, Corsouw ta konta and Cuentanan di Nanzi, preserved traditional tales—especially those of Kompa Nanzi, the clever spider—ensuring they would be passed down through generations.

Through her work as a teacher and radio host, she brought Papiamento to the airwaves and into classrooms, empowering young Curaçaoans to take pride in their language and identity. Though she died young, her impact endures.

Nilda Maria Jesurun Pinto’s legacy is a cornerstone of Caribbean cultural heritage—a testament to the importance of local language, storytelling, and pride in one’s roots. She remains a symbol of resilience, creativity, and cultural affirmation.

ACURIL LIV honors  Franklin Domenico ('Bòi') Antoin, journalist, author, and cultural advocate, whose lifelong commitment to Bonaire has made him a vital voice in the preservation of Dutch Caribbean heritage. Born on the island he so deeply cherishes, Bòi Antoin has worked tirelessly to document and protect its history, culture, and natural environment.

Since 1978, he has used journalism and storytelling as powerful tools to raise awareness about the unique identity of Bonaire. From 1991 onward, his writings have become a vital source of knowledge on the island’s past, helping to shape a collective memory and inspire cultural pride. His work not only highlights historical events but also celebrates local customs, traditions, and the resilience of the Bonairian people.

Bòi Antoin is also a staunch advocate for environmental conservation, using his platform to support nature and environmental groups by drawing public attention to their efforts. His commitment to sustainable development, ecological awareness, and cultural continuity exemplifies the role of intellectuals in safeguarding heritage.

Through his voice, Bòi Antoin has nurtured a deeper understanding of what it means to belong to Bonaire—and, by extension, to the Dutch Caribbean. His legacy continues to shape and protect the island’s identity for future generations.