Rotary Club of Paramaribo

Rotary Club of Paramaribo Visits Fernandes Autohandel: A Glimpse into the Future of Automotive Innovation

On 19 August 2026, members of the Rotary Club of Paramaribo were warmly welcomed to Fernandes Autohandel by Bryan Renten, CEO of Fernandes Group, and Patrick Pengel, Managing Director of Fernandes Autohandel. This vocational visit offered an enlightening opportunity to explore the intersection of automotive technology and market trends, emphasizing the innovative approaches that Fernandes Autohandel is adopting in response to the evolving automotive landscape.

Bryan Renten, CEO of Fernandes Group, opened the event with a heartfelt welcome, expressing the importance of community engagement and collaboration. He highlighted the role of the Rotary Club in promoting local initiatives and fostering partnerships that benefit the wider community. Renten's vision for Fernandes Autohandel reflects a commitment to quality, innovation, and affordability, positioning the company as a key player in the automotive market.

Following the opening remarks, Patrick Pengel delivered an engaging presentation detailing the history and future of Fernandes Autohandel. He provided a comprehensive overview of the company's journey, tracing its roots from a small drugstore to a significant player in the automotive industry.

Pengel outlined the evolution of the company, emphasizing its resilience and adaptability in the face of market challenges. Fernandes Autohandel has established itself as a trusted name in the automotive sector, known for its customer-centric approach and quality products.

The presentation focused on how Fernandes Autohandel is embracing technological advancements in the automotive industry. As the market shifts towards sustainable and innovative solutions, the company is actively investing in electric vehicle infrastructure and customer service to stay ahead of the curve. This includes exploring advancements in electric vehicle technology and hybrid models, catering to a diverse consumer base.
One of the most exciting segments of the visit was the introduction of Fernandes Autohandel's latest line of GAC automobiles sourced from China.

The showcased models included a range of small, midsized, and large vehicles, catering to various customer preferences and needs:
The lineup featured small cars ideal for urban commuting, midsized vehicles for families, and larger models suitable for those requiring more space. This variety ensures that the company can meet the demands of a broad spectrum of consumers.

Sustainability Focus: Among the new GAC models, attendees were particularly impressed by the hybrid, petrol-powered, and fully electric options available. These vehicles not only promise to deliver exceptional performance but also support more environmentally responsible forms of transportation, aligning with global trends towards sustainability in transportation.

Affordability and Value: One of the standout features emphasized during the presentation was the affordability of these GAC vehicles. Fernandes Autohandel aims to provide high-quality automobiles that offer excellent value for money, making them accessible to a wider audience. The combination of affordability and innovative features positions the company favorably in a competitive market.
The visit concluded with a question-and-answer session, allowing Rotary Club members to engage directly with Bryan Renten and Patrick Pengel. This interaction fostered an exchange of ideas regarding the future of the automotive industry and potential collaborations between Fernandes Autohandel and community initiatives.

Members expressed their enthusiasm for the innovative approaches taken by the company and theirits commitment to supporting local businesses that prioritize sustainability and technological advancement.

The visit to Fernandes Autohandel was not just an exploration of new automobiles; it was a testament to the power of innovation and community engagement. The Rotary Club of Paramaribo left the event inspired by the vision and dedication displayed by Bryan Renten and his team. As the automotive industry continues to evolve, Fernandes Autohandel stands poised to lead the charge towards a more sustainable and technologically advanced future.
By fostering relationships within the community and embracing innovative practices, Fernandes Autohandel exemplifies the spirit of progress that is essential for the growth and development of the automotive sector in Suriname and beyond.

Successful Brunch Meeting Addressing Suriname's Brain Drain Hosted by the Rotary Club of Paramaribo

Today marked a significant milestone for the Rotary Club of Paramaribo as we held our inaugural Brunch meeting at the welcoming home of Fellow Gijs Van Der Loo. This gathering not only provided an opportunity to enjoy a culinary experience reminiscent of a five-star hotel brunch but also served as a platform for meaningful dialogue surrounding a critical issue facing our beloved Suriname: Brain Drain.

Understanding the Brain Drain Problem

Brain drain refers to the phenomenon where highly educated and skilled individuals leave their home country in search of better opportunities abroad. In Suriname, this issue poses a substantial challenge, as a growing number of our educated citizens seek prospects that they feel are lacking at home. This migration deprives our nation of its most talented individuals, hindering our progress and development.

Focusing on Education as a Solution

During our brunch, we engaged in thoughtful discussions about education as a potential solution to this pressing problem. The consensus was clear: by providing more opportunities for growth and development within Suriname, we can encourage our talented citizens to invest in their homeland rather than seek opportunities elsewhere. This includes not only enhancing educational infrastructures but also creating pathways for professional advancement and entrepreneurship.

A heartfelt thank you goes out to Fellow Gijs Van Der Loo and Partner in Service Marce Van Der Loo-Garza for graciously hosting this event at their home. Their hospitality made this gathering both comfortable and inspiring. We also extend our appreciation to President Nessa Brahim, her team, and the incredible Partners in Service Diego Chin-A-Sen, Anjani Boetius en Tanja De Miranda for orchestrating this engaging and fresh experience that undoubtedly adds a new dimension to the Rotary Club of Paramaribo. A Special thanks to Fellows Dave Boetius and Gail Meyer for their efforts in leading the discussion. It was certainly an affair to remember. It is initiatives like these that empower us to address the challenges our community faces while fostering camaraderie among our members and partners in service.

⛳️ Companies Golf for Charity 2026! 🏌️‍♀️🏌️‍♂️

Op zaterdag 10 oktober 2026 slaan we samen met Golfclub Paramaribo af voor een mooie dag vol golf, fun, networking én vooral: impact maken voor onze gemeenschap. ❤️

En natuurlijk wordt het extra spannend… er zijn mooie prijzen te winnen! 🏆🎁 Denk aan binnenlandse én buitenlandse trips en andere leuke prijzen!

Dit jaar hebben we naast de 18-holes ronde ook 9-holes flights, zodat nog meer bedrijven en golfers kunnen meedoen!

📍 Golfclub Paramaribo
📅 Zaterdag 10 oktober 2026
👥 Teams van 4 spelers
⛳ 18 of 9 holes
🎉 Fun, activiteiten & prijzen op de baan

De opbrengsten gaan naar het community development werk van Rotary Club of Paramaribo in Suriname.

👉 Verzamel je team, doe mee en maak kans op geweldige prijzen!

Registratie vóór 11 september 2026:
🌐 eventcreate.com/e/rotarygolf

Farewell to Ambassador Walter Oostelbos: A Celebration of Service and Fellowship

Last Wednesday marked a poignant moment for the Rotary Club of Suriname as we bid farewell to Ambassador Walter Oostelbos, who has graciously served as the Ambassador of the Netherlands to Suriname.

His tenure has been characterized by dedication, engagement, and an unwavering commitment to the community, culminating in a heartfelt farewell event that celebrated his contributions.

Throughout his time in Suriname, Ambassador Oostelbos demonstrated exceptional involvement with the Rotary Club. He was not merely a member; he was a pillar of support and engagement.

His presence was felt at numerous events, where he brought warmth and camaraderie. Walter's commitment to Rotary’s ideals was evident in every initiative he participated in, reflecting the spirit of service above self.

As we gathered at the Rotary Club of Suriname to bid a heartfelt farewell to our esteemed Ambassador, His time in Suriname has been nothing short of remarkable—filled with dedication, engagement, and a deep commitment to our community.

During the last Handing-Over Ceremony, Walter was honored with the Paul Harris Fellow Distinction, recognizing his significant contributions to the Rotary mission.

President Nessa Brahim delivered a touching speech, celebrating Walter’s achievements and presenting him with a gift symbolizing 50 years of Surinamese Independence.

Walter, your warmth and dedication have made a lasting impact. Thank you for everything you’ve done for the Rotary Club and the people of Suriname. You will be greatly missed! ❤️🤝

Launch of Online Learning Platform for Dyslexia in Suriname

On August 6, 2026, an important initiative aimed at supporting children with dyslexia was unveiled in Suriname. The event marked the launch of a free online learning platform designed specifically for parents, caregivers, teachers, remedial teachers and educational professionals.

This initiative was developed by the Stichting Rotary Suriname voor Dyslexie, with significant contributions from fellow Amanda, who worked diligently as a board member to bring this vital resource to life. President Nessa Brahim attended and opened the event with a riveting speech to signify the support of the Rotary Club of Paramaribo.

The platform serves several key purposes:

- Education: It provides comprehensive training for parents and educators, enabling them to understand the reading process understand and recognize dyslexia in children.

- Support: Participants will learn effective strategies to assist children facing reading and spelling challenges.

- Accessibility: The online format ensures that resources are easily accessible to a broad audience, making it convenient for users in Suriname.

The launch event featured several speakers who shared insights into the importance of recognizing and addressing dyslexia. Attendees learned about:

- The Nature of Dyslexia: Presenters explained dyslexia as a form of neurodiversity that can lead to persistent difficulties in reading and spelling due to challenges in automatic processing.

- The Role of Educators: Emphasis was placed on the critical role educators play in identifying and supporting children with dyslexia.

This online learning platform represents a significant step forward in supporting children with dyslexia in Suriname. By equipping parents and teachers with the necessary tools and knowledge, it aims to foster an inclusive educational environment where every child can thrive.

For those interested in accessing this valuable resource, further information can be found on the platform’s website (FB page Vereniging Dyslexie Suriname), making a meaningful difference in the lives of children with dyslexia.

🌿 Dag der Inheemsen & Javaanse Immigratie – Suriname 🇸🇷
Vandaag eren we de wortels van onze samenleving — de inheemse volken die het land zijn hart gaven, en de Javaanse gemeenschap die met moed en traditie haar plaats vond in onze geschiedenis.
Samen vormen we een kleurrijk weefsel van cultuur, taal en erfgoed.
Laten we deze dag gebruiken om te luisteren, te leren en te vieren wat ons verbindt.

🌎Insights from the Summit Duurzaam Suriname 3.0🇸🇷

On August 5th, our Rotary Club of Paramaribo held an engaging meeting featuring Minister Patrick Brunnings of the Ministry of Oil, Gas, and Environment and Fellow of the Rotary Club of Paramaribo. Minister Brunnings provided an in-depth overview of the Summit Duurzaam Suriname 3.0, which was launched on August 1st and aims to foster sustainable development in Suriname. The summit will include two working group days next week, with a concluding event scheduled for September.

Minister Brunnings emphasized the importance of collaboration across sectors to address the current challenges and promote sustainable practices in our nation. This summit serves as a platform for stakeholders to discuss and formulate actionable strategies for a prosperous Suriname.

In addition to the minister’s presentation, we were honored to host Devin Diran from TNO, who captivated the audience with his insights into Global Trends Towards 2050. His presentation highlighted key global shifts that could significantly impact Suriname’s future, urging us to consider these trends as we plan for sustainable development.

The meeting concluded with an open discussion, where members shared their thoughts. The discussions were enlightening, and we left motivated to contribute to a sustainable future for our nation.

🌍✨Green Awareness Expo 2026!✨🌍

From July 30th to August 1st, the Rotary Club of Paramaribo proudly participated in the Green Awareness Expo! We were thrilled to engage with our community and empower the next generation regarding sustainable practices.

We provided reusable bags made from recycled plastic, helping to reduce single-use plastics. But even more importantly, we shared valuable information with our youth visitors, inspiring them to be conscious of their plastic use and its impact on our environment. 🌱♻️

We urge everyone to be the difference! Thank you to everyone who visited our booth and joined us in this crucial conversation. The Rotary Club of Paramaribo will continue to work towards a greener, more sustainable future! 💚

🍃💚Join Us at the Green Awareness Expo! 💚🌿

The Rotary Club of Paramaribo invites you to celebrate sustainability and community care at the Green Awareness Expo

17 July Do. 30 en Vr. 31 van 9:00u - 18:30u
August Za. 1 van 10:00u - 20:00u

Ballroom Torarica

We'll be showcasing and selling our reusable plastic
bags - a simple step toward protecting our planet.

Carry your values with you: "SAVE THE PLANET! I DO! DO YOU?"

Come visit our booth, support eco-friendly living, and be part of the change!