SMPYA Proudly celebrates Showanna Arthurs Monroe University Graduation

GREAT BAY--The St. Martin Promoting Young Ambassadors Foundation (SMPYA), its President Angelique J.G. Romou, members and “The Kids Place” radio program are celebrating Senior SXM Young Ambassador Showanna Arthurs following her graduation from Monroe University with a Bachelor’s Degree in Criminal Justice, with a concentration in Psychology.

Arthurs graduated in 2026 as a first-generation university graduate while maintaining a 3.9 GPA. During her time at Monroe University, she served on the New Rochelle campus Student Activities Executive Board, received the Director’s Award for Leadership and represented St. Maarten in the Parade of Nations during the commencement ceremony at Radio City Music Hall.

Before pursuing her university studies, Arthurs was an active member of SMPYA and spent approximately two to three years as a member of “The Kids Place,” which airs every Saturday from 11:00am to 12:00pm on SOS Radio 95.9 FM.

She also volunteered at numerous Foundation activities involving seniors, women, youth and the wider community. Arthurs hosted the Facebook series “Real Talk with Angelique Romou” and later started a talk show on SOS Radio with fellow SXM Young Ambassador Waby Faustin.

SMPYA President and “The Kids Place” mentor Angelique J.G. Romou described Arthurs as a determined young woman who has consistently demonstrated her willingness to work toward the goals she sets for herself. Arthurs completed her studies at Monroe University in two years.

“Watching Showanna grow from a SXM Young Ambassador and a young radio & Facebook personality into an accomplished university graduate is an extremely proud moment. Her journey reminds us why it is so important to give our young people opportunities to develop their voices, confidence, leadership and sense of service,” Romou said.

The Foundation also recognized the contribution of the St. Maarten Academy C.A.P.E. Division, where Arthurs earned an Associate Degree in Economics before continuing her studies.

SMPYA said her educational journey demonstrates the value of pathways that allow students to build on previous studies, potentially giving them an advantage and reducing the amount of time required to complete university studies while pursuing their chosen careers.

Arthurs’ achievement is being highlighted during a significant year for “The Kids Place,” which is celebrating its 15th anniversary of providing young people with an opportunity to express themselves and develop their voices.

Over the past 15 years, SMPYA has watched members grow from children and teenagers into young adults who have attended and graduated from colleges and universities, established careers and contributed to their communities.

Romou also thanked Billy D of SOS Radio 95.9 FM for giving her the opportunity to establish the youth program 15 years ago.

As part of the anniversary celebration, SMPYA is sharing Arthurs’ story as an example of what can emerge from sustained investment in young people.

“For 15 years, we have given young people a microphone, but more importantly, we have given them a voice,” Romou said. “As we celebrate Showanna, we also celebrate every past and present member who has gone on to pursue higher education, achieve their goals and make us proud.”

Reflecting on her journey, Arthurs credited her faith, perseverance and family for helping her reach this point.

“Who could it be but Jesus? The journey over the years was not easy. It took prayer, drive, strength and a lot of courage.”

From her beginnings in St. Elizabeth, Jamaica, to moving to St. Maarten and becoming a youth advocate, radio personality and university graduate, her journey has reinforced for her the importance of perseverance and faith.

Arthurs is now enrolled in the University of the West Indies Moana Campus Faculty of Law in Jamaica, where she is pursuing a Bachelor of Laws, LLB.

Her message to the youth of St. Maarten is:

“Do not limit yourself. You can accomplish more than you anticipated you could, to become successful, you have to push harder, but it will be worth it in the end. You are capable. With God on your side, all things are possible!”

The Foundation extended congratulations to her parents, Dian-Jay McDonald and Felton McDonald, as well as her siblings, family, friends and everyone who has supported her throughout her journey.

As “The Kids Place” celebrates 15 years on SOS Radio 95.9 FM, Romou also saluted every young person who has been part of the program and reaffirmed the Foundation’s commitment to giving St. Maarten’s youth a voice.

Young people interested in joining the program can contact the Foundation by email at sxmyoungambassdors@gmail.com or via WhatsApp at +1 721 585 1974.

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