A new program has been launched to help people of all ages find employment and grow both personally and professionally. The initiative, known as the Workforce Development Program and launched under the name Impact Talent Accelerator, began in 2023 with a focus on monitoring trends and developments in Aruba’s labor market.
As an organization deeply involved in entrepreneurship, IMPACT Talent works closely with both the economic and labor sectors. In 2024, the Aruba Chamber of Commerce, a partner of IMPACT Talent, conducted a study. The findings sparked interest in taking concrete action.
Given the program’s potential to make a strong economic and social impact on the country, a deeper analysis of the data began. By early 2025, efforts were underway to create a solution tailored to the local labor market. The result is an innovative program designed not only to help people find work but also to support long-term professional career growth.
According to Mary-Ann Falconi-Rasmijn, General Manager of IMPACT Talent, many programs already exist, but this new one is unique because it works directly with the private sector. It aims to bridge the gap between education and industry. “I truly believe this makes the program unique and innovative. We are confident in its success, especially with a continuous approach that allows us to bring real change to Aruba,” Falconi-Rasmijn said.
Open to people of all ages
Aruba faces challenges related to an aging population, which means many older workers will soon exit the labor force. At the same time, young people are entering the job market. This raises important questions about how best to support each group and whether this program can help. Discussions with Colegio EPI confirmed that these concerns are shared by educational institutions as well. These are issues that need careful analysis and immediate action.
The new program is inclusive and designed for everyone—from young graduates to older adults. Whether someone has just finished school, recently moved from the Netherlands without connections, or simply doesn’t know how to find a job, the program is built to help.
It is also intended for people who feel ready to grow and do more but don’t know how to begin. Through the Impact Talent Accelerator, participants can discover their potential and identify their personal and professional goals. “We help them understand and use these strengths to benefit themselves and contribute to something bigger,” said Falconi-Rasmijn.
Supporting school dropouts too
Another key focus is helping young people who have dropped out of school and are unemployed or unable to find work. Falconi-Rasmijn stressed that many dropouts—from MAVO and other schools—often work informally or engage in activities that don’t contribute meaningfully to the economy. This is a major concern.
Programs like this can begin addressing such issues by offering a structured way to measure progress and reach out to these young people. The goal is to motivate them to return to school, find a job, and discover their purpose in life.
Helping people find their purpose
Some people frequently switch jobs, and the program aims to support them as well. Falconi-Rasmijn explained that this behavior is often linked to a structural problem in Aruba—specifically, a mindset issue. The program includes a component focused on helping participants reflect on why they are unhappy in their jobs and what their real aspirations are.
“Sometimes people keep changing jobs because they haven’t found their calling. Of course, other work-related factors play a role too, but mindset is a major one. We need to create a space where people can express their frustrations and work toward their life goals in a direct and meaningful way,” she said.
An innovative approach for Aruba
Two years ago, AHATA launched a complementary program called Mi Kier Traha. This program teaches people how to be more successful in their job search, how to prepare themselves for interviews, where to find job listings, and how to present themselves professionally.
Tisa LaSorte, CEO of the Aruba Hotel & Tourism Association (AHATA), praised the innovative nature of the Impact Talent Accelerator. “What’s great about this program is that it works directly with people and helps them grow so they have a better chance of success in the job market. That benefits both the employee and the employer,” said LaSorte.
AHATA is pleased to see organizations like IMPACT Hub working to find real solutions for the challenges in Aruba’s labor market and the ongoing worker shortage.
