2024

The Board

Local President

Vanity Melinda Soeroredjo: "A Phenomenal Year as JCI Urban Local President"

Serving as the Local President of JCI Urban in 2024 was nothing short of phenomenal for Vanity Melinda Soeroredjo. Reflecting on her journey, she describes it as an incredible experience filled with growth, challenges, and unforgettable moments.

One of the most profound ways this leadership role shaped her was in her approach to communication and relationships. “I learned to use more kindness instead of sarcasm,” Vanity shares. “And more than that, I gained new family members within JCI Urban. That’s something truly special.”

Among the many memories she holds dear, it was the unwavering support of her team that stood out the most. “The whole year was memorable,” she says. “But seeing my team have my back flawlessly—that was truly beautiful.”

For those currently in JCI Urban or considering joining, Vanity has one piece of advice: “Have fun! Don’t take it too seriously, don’t pressure yourself. Just have fun. It’s like a project—enjoy doing it!”

Her journey as JCI Urban’s 2024 Local President stands as a testament to the power of leadership, teamwork, and personal growth. Through kindness, connection, and a spirit of enjoyment, she made the most of her year and encourages others to do the same.

Lorensia Karso
Local Secretary

Megan Wijsman
Local Treasurer

Rosano Lagadeau
Vice President

The Theme

Restore. Renew. Then Rise
JCI Urban faced several challenging years in the past. In response, a renewed commitment emerged to restore the chapter’s strength, rebuild connections with fellow chapters, attract new observers, and revitalize what had been lost. A fresh theme was introduced—carefully developed with input from members and visually represented through a new official logo. This marked a turning point in the chapter’s journey, reflecting a shared vision for revival, growth, and renewed impact.

Populaire projecten

Pop-up Fair

In 2024, JCI Urban hosted the Pop-Up Fair in collaboration with Choi’s Lelydorp and several local small businesses, as an initiative to support entrepreneurs affected by the economic aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic. Spearheaded by Local President Vanity, the event provided a platform for small business owners to showcase and sell their products in a well-organized and high-traffic environment.

Held from 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM, the fair saw contributions from multiple sponsors: Choi’s offered the venue, Fernandes provided drinks and pastries, and LP supplied tents. Entrepreneurs paid a participation fee of SRD 450, which helped cover event costs and ensured their space at the fair.

This project aligned with SDG 8 – Decent Work and Economic Growth and SDG 9 – Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure, by fostering inclusive economic recovery and supporting the resilience of small enterprises.

Tap Yari Bike Ride

The Tap Yari Bike Ride took place on December 7, 2024, organized by JCI Nilom and JCI Urban in collaboration with Kentucky Fried Chicken Suriname (KFC) and London Communicatie. The event aimed to raise awareness about the importance of physical activity while fostering community engagement and networking among cyclists, residents of the Wanica district, and members of various JCI chapters. The ride covered a distance of 17.88 km, starting and ending at the Lelydorp Sport Bond (LSB), with police ensuring traffic safety and KFC providing refreshments and entertainment.

The project was designed to promote a healthy lifestyle, strengthen community bonds, and create opportunities for partnerships. Activities included a ride from 4:00 to 6:00 PM followed by closing events, creating a platform for participants to connect and share ideas. The event supported JCI’s core values and contributed to the achievement of Sustainable Development Goal 3 (Good Health and Well-being). Funds raised from the event were directed towards leadership projects, furthering JCI’s mission.

Participants benefited by adopting healthier habits and expanding their networks, while the community enjoyed increased social cohesion and stronger connections. For JCI Nilom and JCI Urban, the event enhanced visibility, reputation, and partnerships. Positive feedback and a surplus of SRD 1687.50 per chapter demonstrated the project’s success and impact.

Recommendations for future editions include improving communication with participants, stricter planning and logistics management, expanding promotional efforts through social media and schools, and scheduling alternative dates to accommodate weather challenges. Overall, the Tap Yari Bike Ride set a strong foundation for similar initiatives to promote health and community engagement.

Other Highlights

2024 National Convention

This year, JCI Suriname held its 61st National Convention from October 2 to October 6, 2024, at various locations, including Marina Trap, Emporium Business Center, and Boutique Hotel Peperpot. A highlight was the opening ceremony on a boat, which set an exciting tone for the event.

The convention featured a Debate and Speaking competition. The debate topic, "CLIMATE CHANGE IS UNDERMINING THE ECONOMIC STABILITY OF THE CARIBBEAN", JCI Urban team up with JCI SYMA. Our team consists of Local President Vanity Soeroredjo, Vice President Rosano Lagadeau, and Observer Dino. Additionally, our Local Secretary, Lorensia Karso, delivered a compelling speech on

"WORLD PEACE IN THIS CHANGING WORLD CAN BEST BE ACHIEVED BY DEVELOPING EFFECTIVE LEADERS".

Throughout the convention, participants were motivated and inspired by various trainers, including former Director Dirk Currie and Senator Marvin Pollack, who focused on effective leadership.

JCI Urban celebrated two significant achievements: the Best First Timer Award, presented to observer Dino Karioredjo, and the Best Inter-Organisation Award, earned alongside JCI Unify.