Josianne Artsen, who is affectionately known by many as Mrs. Fleming and/or Josie has embarked upon a campaign to contest the upcoming parliamentary elections on August 29th as a member of the United People Party (UP). Josianne’s campaign is framed around the message “Josianne C.A.R.E.S!” This accents Josianne’s unique leadership attributes of someone who is Competent, Accountable, Resourceful, Educated and Strong, and forms the acronym “C.A.R.E.S!”
“I have served my country faithfully in various leadership roles, with a specialization in Education, Leadership, Management, Politics, Business, and Social Services,” says Josianne.“ “I am at the stage of my personal and professional career where I can no longer sit by and not be a force to reckon with in affecting positive change on behalf of our people. I truly believe that it’s about time for me to step up and contribute my knowledge, skills and passion to the progressive growth and development of our beloved Country St. Maarten.”
Josianne has a wealth of experience across the spectrum of education as a Teacher, Principal, Superintendent of Schools, Chairperson of School Boards, and also as Immediate Past President of the University of St. Martin. Additionally, Josianne is also experienced in multi-disciplinary fields of Business as a Professional Development Trainer, Policy Writer, and Business Consultant. Furthermore, her political expertise spans decades as former First Lady of French St. Martin, where Josianne served for many years alongside Mayor Albert Fleming, as well as, former Vice President of the United People Party Board. Josianne currently serves Dutch St. Maarten as Deputy Minister Plenipotentiary in the Hague.
As a consummate professional, Josianne further goes on to share the following about her dedication to the people: “Over the years my involvement in various organizations has showcased my passion for service to the community through organizations such as the Rotary Club, Helping Hands Foundation, and co-host of the “Woman 2 Woman, Phenomenal Women” radio program. This is all driven by my genuine commitment to St. Maarten and our people. Through these and other organizations, I have proven my capabilities as someone who walks the talk, and truly C.A.R.ES! This is further evidenced by the selfless manner whereby, I invest my time, talents, and resources towards the improvement of our existing levels of leadership, and also to affect positive changes of various situations and systems affecting the people of St. Maarten.”
Through her campaign, Josianne strives to share her vision for St. Maarten’s Education, Culture, Youth, Sports, Healthcare, Social Services particularly for the Elderly, Labor Market, Job Creation and Economic Development. She strives towards building a nation focused on providing quality service and C.A.R.E. to its residents, and stakeholders.
Josianne is presented by the “Leaders for a Brighter Future Foundation.” The Foundation’s vision is the establishment of a St. Maarten-based leadership institute that provides programs for the professional growth and development of our future leaders. Additionally, the Leaders for a Brighter Future Foundation will facilitate the development of our youth through an initiative themed “Grow Our Own.” The “Grow our Own” initiative strives to develop our youth and other professionals towards entrepreneurship, and to gain positions of management and leadership in our communities, government, political office, and businesses, particularly in the hospitality industry.
This commitment requires strong leadership with integrity, which Josianne brings to the table, with responsible, creative, and quality representation to capitalize on partnerships and programs offered in the Netherlands, Europe, United States of America, and the world. Josianne’s greatest joy is working as a change agent and educational leader where she can innovate and motivate others in the change process and take institutions to higher heights, from vision to execution.
Josianne has lived most of her life on St. Maarten, where she has studied and served as a decorated teacher and community leader. She has also pursued higher education in the Netherlands, and the Americas, and is therefore well-rounded in both educational systems. She holds a Teacher’s Diploma from the Teacher Education College in Amersfoort, a B.A. in the English Language, and is a graduate of Columbia University where she earned a Master degree in Curriculum Development, and a second Masters in Educational Leadership. As a life-long learner, Josianne will complete her Doctorate degree very soon.
Josianne received distinguished awards such as the Ghandi-King-Ikeda PEACE Award from Morehouse College in the USA, and was decorated by the Queen of the Netherlands for her outstanding achievements.
Josianne speaks French, Spanish, Dutch, and English fluently, and can therefore representing St. Maarten professionally throughout various parts of the world.
- Friday, April 19, 2024
