Sarah-Quita: World champion. Humble ambassador. Inspiring role model.
Who gets a beach named after them?
Sarah-Quita Offringa does.
World champion. Humble ambassador. Inspiring role model.
Not only does Sarah-Quita have a beach named in her honor at Fisherman’s Huts, she’s also celebrated with one of San Nicolas’ most recognizable murals, a fitting tribute to a woman who represents Aruba with extraordinary talent, humility, and grace.
Surrounded by colorful roses and tropical flowers, her mural is impossible to walk past without stopping. Our eyes are immediately drawn to Sarah-Quita’s warm smile. Gently squinting in the sunshine, her eyes make her feel instantly approachable. Artist Mr. Dheo captures not just her likeness, but her spirit. She doesn’t look like an untouchable superstar. She looks like the kind of person you’d happily greet at the Fisherman’s Huts. And if you spend enough time there, you just might. Although she’s traveled the world, Aruba has always been home.
It’s the reason our Taste of San Nicolas tour begins here. For us, there’s no better way to introduce visitors to San Nicolas than by sharing the story of someone who represents the very best of Aruba.
With Aruba’s steady trade winds and warm, shallow waters, countless children have learned to windsurf at Fisherman’s Huts. I remember seeing Sarah-Quita there, already Aruba’s brightest young athlete, with her mom sitting beneath the trees in the shade, encouraging the windsurfers. Looking back, those are some of my favorite memories of raising our son in Aruba.
Medals are only part of her story.
What I admire most about Sarah-Quita is the way she represents Aruba. Throughout her remarkable career, she remains humble, genuine, approachable, and generous with her time, encouraging young people to dream big, challenge themselves, and enjoy the journey.
Just a few steps from the San Nicolas Library on Peter Stuyvesantstraat, Sarah-Quita’s mural is surrounded by colorful, Insta-worthy street art. Every day, children walk between the library and these inspiring works of art. It reminds us that our small island can inspire extraordinary dreams.
Carla Cavallaro
Brand Manager, Kukoo Kunuku & Jolly Pirates
Carla Cavallaro is the Brand Manager for Kukoo Kunuku and has spent more than 30 years building Jolly Pirates into one of Aruba’s most recognizable tour companies. She has called Aruba home for nearly 40 years and loves sharing the island’s culture, food, and gems with visitors. When she’s not working, Carla enjoys writing, painting, sailing, exploring Aruba’s art scene, and discovering new places around the island.