SEA Student Council

Your vote counts!

Would you like to impact decisions on how studying can be better for Caribbean students? Do you want to share your experiences and influence decisions that have an impact on your education? The SEA Student Council is there to make students’ voices heard. Together, we work on improvements, share experiences, and ensure that Caribbean students get the opportunities and support they deserve.

Prepare for your studies,
study successfully

The SEA Student Council represents students and advises the SEA Program Team and the SEA Advisory Committee. They actively contribute to improving study experiences by:

  • Advise on programs and initiatives that are important to students.
  • Collect student experiences and make bottlenecks visible.
  • To contribute ideas about reports and policy plans aimed at Caribbean students.

Sometimes they are given specific assignments, such as sharing experiences on a certain theme or giving feedback on a new plan. In this way, they ensure that students are really heard and have a say in their future.

Meet the SEA Student Council

Our SEA Student Council consists of a diverse group of students with a Caribbean background. We aim for a mix of students from the six islands and different levels of education.

Meet them!

Tanisha Martes

My name is Tanisha Martes, and I’m studying Optometry at Utrecht University of Applied Sciences. Having been born and raised in Curaçao, I know what it’s like to be a student far from home.

That’s why I’m a member of the SEA Student Council: to represent students’ voices and support them. Together, we’re working to create an environment where every student feels welcome and has the opportunity to grow.

Zakiya Lake

Hi, I’m Zakiya Lake. I’m a member of the SEA Student Council because it’s a great opportunity to give Caribbean students a voice.

We hope to shed more light on the challenges faced by Caribbean students and improve the educational process for future generations.

Shane Lobato

My name is Shane Lobato, and I serve on the student council because I want to use my experience as a Caribbean student to bring about improvements for other Caribbean students.

In addition, I want to work toward creating better opportunities on the islands for students who wish to study in the Netherlands in the future. This work gives me a great sense of fulfillment, because it allows me to make a positive impact and help others.

Fayah Ortega

My name is Fayah Ortega, and I’m studying Applied Psychology at Saxion University of Applied Sciences. I’m originally from Sint Maarten and moved to the Netherlands in 2023 to pursue my studies. This transition came with its fair share of challenges.

My motivation for joining the SEA Student Council stems from my desire to use my experiences to help others. I find fulfillment in supporting my fellow students and want to make their transition to the Netherlands easier.

Ashanty Caciano

Hi, my name is Ashanty Caciano and I’m studying Applied Psychology at Saxion University of Applied Sciences. As a student from Curaçao studying in the Netherlands, I believe it’s important to have a say in decisions that affect us as Caribbean students.

By joining the SEA Student Council, I want to make sure our voices are heard. It’s great to work with others to bring about positive change.

Shivani Mirchandani

My name is Shivani Mirchandani. With my Indian and Spanish roots and as a proud resident of beautiful Sint Maarten, I am passionately committed to bringing about positive change in student life. My focus is on academic success and empowering students.

Through the SEA Student Council, I want to ensure that the voices of students—both past and future generations—are heard, recognized, and supported. Together, we are building a journey that is not only meaningful but also has a lasting impact.

Joseph Tromp

My name is Joseph Tromp; I am an Aruban electrical engineering student in Groningen. I see firsthand the challenges Caribbean students face when they move to the Netherlands—especially the lack of clear and timely information.

That is why I joined the SEA Student Council. My goal is to better prepare students for this transition and ensure they receive the support they need along the way.

Qushendre Felida

My name is Qushendre Felida. I was born in the Netherlands and grew up both on the island of Curaçao and in the Netherlands. I am currently studying Built Environment (Architecture and Civil Engineering) at the University of Curaçao.

I’m particularly interested in infrastructure, transportation vehicles, and large-scale projects. In my free time, I enjoy playing Minecraft, cycling, going to the beach, and singing.

Savino Every

My name is Savino Every and I’m from Curaçao. I’m fascinated by airplanes and I love games—for me, both are about connection, creativity, and bringing people together.

I bring that same energy to my role on the SEA Student Council. I’m committed to sharing the stories of Caribbean students and reminding them of one important message: no one is alone here.

Alexandrina Martina

Hey! My name is Alexandrina Martina. I am 24 years old and a student of Applied Psychology at Saxion Deventer.

As a student from Curaçao studying in the Netherlands, I know how easy it is to feel a bit lost and how hard it can be to find your way back. That’s why I’m passionate about providing more support, clarity, and connection for students.

I look forward to making a meaningful difference in the lives of others.

Jenisha Boasman

Hi, my name is Jenisha. I was born and raised in Sint Maarten and have also lived in Curaçao since I was young. I’m currently studying International Business at NHL Stenden University of Applied Sciences, and I have a strong passion for creativity, cultural exchange, and community building.

I joined the SEA Student Council because I believe in the importance of giving students a voice and creating a welcoming environment where everyone feels included. In this role, I want to contribute new ideas, represent diverse perspectives, and help strengthen the bond between students and the university.

Charissa
Martis

Hi, I’m Charissa Martis. I’m originally from “The Friendly Island,” Sint Maarten, with roots in Saba and Curaçao. I am studying Social Legal Services at Inholland University of Applied Sciences in Rotterdam.

On the SEA Student Council, I want to use my experiences as a Caribbean student to support others in their studies and to make the process easier for future students from the islands. It gives me a great sense of fulfillment to make a positive impact and help others.

Lindell Wilson

Hi, I’m Lindell, and I’m from Sint Maarten. I joined the SEA Student Council because I care deeply about the future of Caribbean education and the students who shape it.

I believe every student’s voice matters, and I want to help create space for honest conversations about our challenges, our goals, and the changes we want to see. I’m especially passionate about raising awareness around student mental health, because academic success should never come at the expense of our well-being.

Sabéa Nanton

Hi, my name is Sabéa Nanton. I was born in St. Vincent and the Grenadines, but I reside in St. Maarten. I studied for my Associate Degree in Entrepreneurship.

My reason for joining SEA is to uplift and empower Caribbean youth to strive toward success and excellence. I firmly believe that every young person possesses the ability and purpose to create meaningful change, and I am committed to fostering a space where Caribbean students feel seen, heard, and genuinely celebrated. Transitioning to studies in larger countries can often feel overwhelming and isolating, and I hope to help create opportunities, resources, and support systems that make that journey smoother and more memorable for everyone.

Jeralma Tromp

Hi! I’m Jeralma Tromp, an Aruban student studying Social Work and Social Legal Services at Inholland University of Applied Sciences.

I joined the SEA Student Council because I believe it is important for Caribbean students to feel seen, heard, and supported. Drawing on my own experiences and those of others, I am committed to bringing these issues to light and contributing ideas for improvements that promote the well-being, equal opportunities, and academic success of Caribbean students throughout the Kingdom.

How can you join?

Would you like to join the Student Council? We are looking for students who are committed to bringing about positive change.
We welcome students from all six islands and various fields of study.

Want to apply? Send an email explaining why you want to make a difference to info@strategiceducationalliance.org!