Today, a significant milestone in Aruba’s cultural journey was achieved as the baton was passed to a new leadership at the Padu Lampe Foundation. This comes on the same day that Juan Chabaya Lampe would have celebrated his 105th birthday, had he still been alive. With honor, vision, and renewed purpose, the foundation has been established to continue preserving and advancing the powerful legacy of Aruba’s beloved musical icon, Padu Lampe.
The foundation’s primary mission is to preserve and nurture Padu Lampe’s Caribbean heritage, ensuring that his spirit remains alive across generations. From schools to stages, from young artists’ hearts to songs yet to be written, the foundation will honor his legacy. It will also instill a deep sense of pride in having Padu Lampe as a cornerstone of Aruba’s cultural identity.
Fundacion Padu Lampe will spearhead impactful cultural programs, educational initiatives, and create spaces where Aruba’s cultural soul can thrive, be celebrated, and shared with the world. A key initiative includes plans to transform the house of Padu into an interactive museum that will pay tribute to the music, life, and lasting impact of one of Aruba’s most iconic figures.
The previous foundation has been dissolved with dignity and gratitude, passing the torch to the new organization. Alice van Romondt, the former president of the original board, led the transition with dedication and care. Now, she serves as a trusted advisor to the new board, ensuring the spirit of continuity and respect remains central to every decision.
The leadership of the new foundation brings together a dynamic mix of creativity, strategic vision, and unwavering commitment to preserving the legacy of Aruba’s culture. Leading the charge in this new era is Edjean Semeleer, a cultural entrepreneur, beloved Aruban artist, and tireless visionary, who now serves as President of Padu Lampe Foundation. Alongside him, Arthur Loefstok, architect, designer, and creative mind, assumes the role of Secretary/Vice-President, providing inspiration and expertise.
The foundation’s board is strengthened by the addition of Silvia Gildhorn, an administrative and financial professional, as Treasurer; Graciela Nedd-Cheng, a librarian and documentalist dedicated to preserving Aruba’s historical memory, as a board member; and Vivian Lampe, a family member and passionate advocate for her father’s dream, also serving as a board member.
In addition to their mission to preserve Padu Lampe’s legacy, the foundation is working towards a transformative vision: to create an interactive museum that not only celebrates Padu’s contributions but also educates and inspires future generations.
The Padu Lampe Foundation is committed to carrying forward this heritage with excellence, love, and a clear cultural vision. With the support of the community and future partners, Padu Lampe’s legacy will be not only preserved but elevated to new heights. The transformation of the house of Padu Lampe into a source of pride for Aruba will also make it a must-see destination for both locals and international visitors.
This project has already generated excitement, not just for what it represents but for what it promises to create: an opportunity for Aruba to lead with culture. It will showcase to the world that small islands carry great histories and, when heritage is honored with vision, it becomes a symbol of innovation, education, and national pride.
This is more than the continuation of a legacy; this is a renaissance.
