About COCAAE
A living, breathing movement — not an institution.
The Council of Cultural and Artistic Expressions exists so that the stories, traditions, and contributions of Sint Maarten's people remain living legacies for generations to come.
Our Mission
COCAAE is dedicated to preserving, promoting, and advancing the cultural and artistic heritage of Sint Maarten and the wider Caribbean through education, artistic expression, leadership development, historical preservation, and community engagement. We empower individuals and organizations by creating opportunities for cultural learning, intergenerational knowledge sharing, creative innovation, and international collaboration that strengthen identity, celebrate diversity, and inspire positive social change.
Our Vision
We envision a future where Caribbean cultural heritage is celebrated, protected, and passed on to future generations through vibrant artistic expression, inclusive education, and collaborative partnerships. We aspire to connect communities across the Kingdom of the Netherlands and the global diaspora — fostering pride, resilience, creativity, and cultural sustainability.
Core Values
What guides every decision
- Cultural Heritage Preservation
- Education and Lifelong Learning
- Artistic Excellence
- Community Empowerment
- Youth Leadership Development
- Intergenerational Knowledge Sharing
- Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion
- Collaboration and Partnership
- Innovation and Creativity
- Integrity and Accountability
- Sustainability
- Respect for Cultural Identity
Leadership & Ambassadors
The people behind the work
Urmain Dormoy
Founder & Executive Director
Isabel James
Cultural Heritage Lead
Roselyne Denis
Community Engagement
Karen Cadogan
Education & Workshops
Pedro Wilson
Partnerships