Shanti Augusta - President
Shanti has 25 years of work experience in the field of mental health and well-being. She has successfully brought her services into hotels, NGO’s,
schools and corporations. Shanti is a true community builder and a well know wellness public figure on the island of Aruba.
Her extensive network positions her as a strong driving force in helping the foundation achieve its goals.
schools and corporations. Shanti is a true community builder and a well know wellness public figure on the island of Aruba.
Her extensive network positions her as a strong driving force in helping the foundation achieve its goals.
Marla Ponson - Treasurer
Marla brings over a decade of volunteer experience as treasurer for nonprofit foundations,
offering both financial expertise and a heartfelt commitment to service. With a professional background in financial advising, corporate finance,
and risk management across Curaçao, Aruba, and Ireland, this experience ensures thoughtful stewardship of resources to support the institute’s mission.
Guided by balance and clarity, the role helps create the financial foundation for sustainable growth and mindful impact.
offering both financial expertise and a heartfelt commitment to service. With a professional background in financial advising, corporate finance,
and risk management across Curaçao, Aruba, and Ireland, this experience ensures thoughtful stewardship of resources to support the institute’s mission.
Guided by balance and clarity, the role helps create the financial foundation for sustainable growth and mindful impact.
Leontine Merkies - Secretary
Leontine brings a unique blend of cultural anthropology and psycho-education to her work with AMI,
with a background in pedagogics and over 25 years of experience in education. Driven by a strong passion for community development,
she carried out various projects in collaboration with local NGOs, always aiming to create meaningful impact at the grassroots level.