The Caribbean Association of National Olympic Committees (CANOC) successfully concluded its Executive Retreat, held from 31 January to 2 February 2026 in Willemstad, Curaçao, hosted in collaboration with the Federashon Deporte i Olímpiko Kòrsou (FDOK).
The three-day visit focused on planning for the upcoming year, reviewing and updating CANOC’s strategic priorities, strengthening governance frameworks, and advancing regional and international collaboration in sport development across the Caribbean.
The retreat formally opened with an Opening Ceremony attended by Director Lizette Sambo-Velder of the Ministry of Education, Science, Culture and Sports of Curaçao, as well as the President Christine Dania and Executive members of FDOK. During the opening, the Director reaffirmed the Ministry's full support for Curaçao’s hosting of the CANOC Executive Retreat, highlighting the importance of regional cooperation and leadership development in sport.
Over the course of the visit, the CANOC Executive undertook strategic working sessions covering organisational planning, governance, communications, finance, and key partnerships in support of CANOC’s long-term vision.
As part of the retreat’s official programme, the CANOC delegation was paid a courtesy visit by the Honourable Sithree van Heydoorn, Minister of Education, Science, Culture and Sport of Curaçao.
During the meeting, Minister van Heydoorn confirmed the Ministry’s full support for CANOC’s upcoming Annual General Assembly and Workshops, scheduled to be hosted in Curaçao later in the year, and expressed the Government’s enthusiasm in welcoming CANOC and its member National Olympic Committees back to the island.
The visit underscored the strong partnership between CANOC, FDOK, and the Government of Curaçao, and reinforced Curaçao’s commitment to being an active hub for regional sport governance and development initiatives.
On the final day, the CANOC delegation conducted site visits to proposed venues, including conference facilities and accommodation options, in preparation for hosting the CANOC Annual General Assembly and Workshops scheduled for 17–18 October 2026.
The successful conclusion of the CANOC Executive Retreat represents a significant step forward in aligning leadership, strengthening institutional partnerships, and positioning the Caribbean Olympic Movement for continued growth and impact in 2026 and beyond.
Author: Caribbean Association of National Olympic Committees (CANOC)
Source: CANOC Release