President awards medals to 136 people

President Desi Bouterse on Thursday gave 136 special Surinamese citizens an award for the contribution they made to the development of the nation. The special ceremony was held in Congress Hall. The awards were handed out as part of the celebration of Suriname’s 43rd anniversary of its Independence Day on November 25. President Bouterse pointed out that these special citizens lead by example and urged others to follow their lead. At the end of his speech, the president thanked all of these special for their

Tosh van Dijk who is a sporter is one of the youngest persons who was given a medal. He pointed out that the medal inspires him to continue his career. The 24-year old Taekwondo champion urged the nation’s youths to keep themselves busy with sports and to never give up on their dreams.

Monique Pool was also given a medal for her work in the Green Heritage Fund Suriname. Pool has been active in the foundation for almost 13 years. The foundation

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efforts. aims at kepeing Suriname green and clean. Pool pointed out that she wants to get more youths involved in the foundation’s work. Madhoerie Jagmohan who is a dance teacher at the Madhoerie Suriname Dance School was given a medal for promoting the Indian dance art in Suriname.

“I feel honored to receive this award from the State. I am the founder of the Bharata Natyam dance style in Suriname and have always put Surinamese children first while further developing the Indian dance style in Suriname with all the love and compassion. I will keep up the good work,” said Madhoerie.

Anand Pherai, chairman of the Houttuin Sports Association and board members of Stichting Uitvaartdienst Uitkijk, also received a medal forhis social work.

Paramaribo North East District Commissioner Mike Nerkust and Renate Wouden, chairwoman of the State Retirees Association (BBGO) each received a medal for their hard work.