Text and image Edwien Bodjie
PARAMARIBO — “Ooh… it wasn’t easy. I don’t know what to say. I didn’t know what happened to me.” This is how 15-year-old Ileeny Pina from Brokopondo reacted on Sunday morning, shortly after she was declared winner of the Sa N’Dyuka Umang Contest 2026. The final, which started on Saturday evening in the National Indoor Stadium (NIS) and only ended around four o’clock in the morning, attracted a packed house. The audience listened loudly, especially when the candidates mentioned their village and Lo.
Pina remained remarkably calm after her victory. “I prepared well, but I never expected to be number one,” she said softly. Her subdued response was at odds with her strong performances earlier in the evening, in which she convinced with knowledge, dance and presentation.
“You have to show that you understand your culture and can propagate it. That is really what attention is paid to”
Myulo Brokopondo’s student, from Compagnie Kreek, draws her knowledge from her immediate environment. “Because of my parents,” she said. That basis gave her visible confidence during the various rounds. While she appears quiet and almost shy in a conversation, that changes as soon as she is on stage.
“When it comes to my culture, I am fierce.” It was precisely that switch that impressed the jury. Pina did not see herself as a favorite. “I was thinking about third place.”
Emotional second place
18-year-old Shenelva Pinas finished second and reacted clearly emotionally. “I’m still nervous, but happy. I didn’t expect it,” she said afterwards. When her name was called, she did not hold back her emotions. She also stood out because of her knowledge of Maroon culture. “If you love your culture, you will investigate it. My parents and grandparents play a major role in this. We have an oral tradition, and that combination with school is special.”
The fourteenth edition of the beauty pageant brought together nine candidates, who presented themselves in traditional Maroon clothing. The room was colorful: pangis, headscarves and jewelry gave the event a distinctly cultural character. A photo booth was also set up on site with Maroon utensils and kitchen elements, which was particularly popular with young people and families.
The contest consisted of several parts, including an introductory round, a nongo-round, a quincepresentation and a boskopu round. In the final, five candidates were asked a question. According to organizer Jalis Eduards, it is about more than just presentation. “You have to show that you understand your culture and can propagate it. That is really what attention is paid to.”
The participants go through a selection and training process in advance. School performance also plays a role. “You have to be able to prove that you are doing your best at school,” says Eduards.
The public as the tenth participant
What made the evening extra special was the role of the audience. Whenever a candidate was introduced, supporters reacted loudly. That connection gave the event an almost family character. Between rounds, cultural performances provided variety and depth. In addition to the main prizes, special titles were also awarded. Angela Amoida won Saa LesipekieStacey Abenta got the title Saa Yeepie and Shevenchely Sanvisie was awarded for the best quince-presentation.
The assessment was in the hands of an experienced jury with strong roots in the culture. Among them Amoeferie Abesse, a former winner herself, dance expert Meredith Winter-Andries, teacher Dewinie Saiwinie, artist Wellie Patra and education specialist Helouise Pansa. The scoring was taken care of by Sjovellie Amoksi, who ensured that the proceedings were correct.
Her victory marks the start of a year for Pina in which she represents the organization and is involved in social projects. She is expected to behave in an exemplary manner and to represent her background with dignity. She seems to still have to get used to that role. Her reaction afterwards remained simple and sincere. “I really didn’t expect it,” she said again. “But I’m just going to do my best.”
