She was involved in children's issues alongside teaching as her main profession.

But then you realize you’ve entered a one-way street, and you remain because you are continually challenged."

Her road to politics began in the 1970s, when she started parents' groups and became a member of the National People's Party.

In 1975, after being encouraged by others to run for office, she earned a seat on the Curaçao Island Council where she stayed a member for the next five years.

In 1982 she was appointed to the legislature of the Netherlands Antilles and also became the Minister of Economic Affairs.