When we launched our mapping survey of Aruba’s Cultural and Creative Industries, we hoped people would participate. What we did not expect was how many would respond in such a short time.
The response exceeded our expectations. Around 700 people have participated so far, and we are continuing to reach more. The momentum led us to keep the survey open longer.
But the number is only part of the story.
Artists and creatives across the island have been publishing videos encouraging others to take part. They are lending their voices, reaching their own communities, and helping make the effort visible. That support matters. We are proud of how the community is responding, and grateful to everyone contributing their time and trust.
This is a bottom-up effort. It is not a government-led initiative. It starts with the people working in the sector: their experiences, their needs, and their willingness to help shape what comes next.
Participation does not automatically give us every answer. We still need to understand who we have reached, whose voices are missing, and what the responses tell us. A strong response brings a responsibility to listen carefully and use the information well.
And we are not stopping at a report.
Through CreActivo Foundation, the next step is to turn what we learn into development work. As usable findings emerge, we will use them to identify priorities, negotiate resources, and begin addressing the needs the mapping reveals. Not everything at once. Step by step, with evidence guiding the work.
The community is showing up. Our responsibility is to follow through.
If you have already participated, thank you. If you have encouraged someone else to take part, thank you too. And if you are part of Aruba’s creative sector and have not yet participated, there is still time to add your voice.
We asked the sector to be heard. The response has given us even more reason to get to work.
Take the survey ↗