My work is deeply influenced by my experiences as a Black non-binary person from Curaçao. Growing up on an island where queerness was often perceived as something that must exist elsewhere, particularly in places like the Netherlands, I felt compelled to challenge this notion. My research critically examines the queer history of Curaçao, debunking the myth that it is impossible or nonexistent. Through this work, I aim to make visible the rich and complex narratives of queer and trans identities in the Caribbean, contributing to broader discussions on sexuality, identity, and postcolonial studies. You can learn more about this in a short presentation I gave in Papiamentu, the creole language of Curaçao, with subtitles in English [click here].

My research is characterized by an interdisciplinary approach, informed by my academic background, which includes a Bachelor's degree in Interdisciplinary Social Sciences from the University of Utrecht, a Bachelor's degree in Theater Studies, and a Master’s in Cultural Studies, both from the University of Amsterdam. I also hold a PhD in Cultural Analysis from the University of Amsterdam. In my work, I employ a range of methods—literature, film, music, performance, discourse analysis, and archival research, depending on the specific questions I seek to answer.

I am particularly proud of receiving the Gregory Sprague Honorable Mention Prize for my first peer-reviewed article, "Looking for Kambrada," which explores the underexplored practice of female same-sex relationships in Curaçao. This recognition, along with an honorable mention for best dissertation from the Caribbean Studies Association, underscores the impact of my work in LGBTQIA+ and Caribbean studies.