"We Own T’ing" is a project that highlights and preserves St. Maarten’s rich cultural history through short, engaging video stories from local voices.
240 Seconds of We Own T'ing
“We Own T’ing” is a cultural storytelling project dedicated to preserving and showcasing the rich heritage of St. Maarten. Through a series of engaging short-form videos, the project captures the voices of local experts and community members who share invaluable insights into the island’s history, traditions, and way of life. Each episode focuses on a unique aspect of St. Maarten’s culture, from agriculture and traditional attire to music and historic communities. The goal is to educate, inspire pride, and ensure that these cultural elements are not lost to time but passed on to future generations.
The series features in-depth conversations with individuals such as Denicio Wyatt, who explores the history and significance of farming on the island; Mr. Urmain Dormoy, who delves into the deep roots of St. Maarten’s music; Ms. Karen Cadogan, who clarifies the origins of the island’s traditional floral print attire; and Mrs. Sarah Wescot-Williams, who shares the historical importance of Simpson Bay as a fishing village and its connection to the rest of the island. Additionally, the project highlights the contributions of Ms. Clara Reyes and Mr. Rudolph Davis, who discuss the history and relevance of the Ponum Dance, St. Maarten’s national dance that originated during the emancipation era and symbolizes freedom and resilience. By capturing these personal stories, “We Own T’ing” serves as a cultural time capsule, bridging the past and present while fostering a sense of identity and appreciation for the island’s unique heritage.
Meet the interviewees.
"We Own T’ing" is a tribute to St. Maarten’s rich culture, capturing the voices and stories that keep our heritage alive.
The Hon. President of Parliament, Ms. Sarah Wescot-Williams as she speaks of Simpsonbay
Focus Forward Media
The We Own Ting project has been made possible through the generous support of various independent donors, het Cultuurfonds Caribisch Gebied, and Focus Forward Media. This initiative is dedicated to preserving and celebrating St. Maarten’s cultural identity by showcasing the stories, traditions, and legacies that define our island. With a strong focus on digital innovation, this project seeks to capture and archive cultural components and the contributions of iconic individuals, ensuring that their impact is recognized and accessible for generations to come.
We extend our deepest gratitude to het Cultuurfonds Caribisch Gebied for believing in our vision and providing the necessary support to bring this project to life. Their commitment to cultural preservation and artistic expression has allowed us to document and share the essence of St. Maarten’s heritage in a way that is engaging, educational, and immersive. Through their funding, we can continue to highlight the narratives that shape our identity, using digital platforms to make these stories widely available to our community and beyond.
As we move forward, we remain committed to honoring and promoting the cultural wealth of our island through this transformative project. We also recognize the invaluable contributions of Focus Forward Media, whose expertise in storytelling and digital media has been instrumental in shaping the visual and narrative aspects of this initiative. Together, we strive to build a lasting digital archive that not only celebrates our past but also inspires future generations to embrace and carry forward the rich cultural heritage of St. Maarten.
Project Cycle
Research & Planning
Conduct background research and interviews to ensure accuracy.
Coordinate logistics, including scheduling interviews and scouting locations.
Filming & Production
Editing & Post-Production
Distribution & Engagement
Engage the community through discussions, screenings, and cultural events.
Encourage feedback and participation to keep the project evolving.
Contact Us
Have questions or want to collaborate?
We’d love to hear from you! Reach out to us for inquiries, feedback, or partnership opportunities. Let’s keep St. Maarten’s culture alive together!
