So, my birthday is around the corner. Normally, this is the time I’d be dropping a wishlist full of material things – you know, the cute little luxuries and treats I’ve been eyeing. And trust me, I had one ready. But as the day gets closer, I find myself reflecting.
The truth is, I already have so much to be grateful for. I have love from family and friends. I have a roof over my head. I’m in good health. I’ve got a job that covers the bills. Do I want more? Of course. But I also remember that there was a time when I wished for exactly what I have right now. And for that, I can’t help but feel gratitude.
So this year, my birthday wishlist is shifting. Instead of focusing on what I can receive, I want to focus on what I can give back. For my birthday, I hope to raise awareness and support for causes:
Lupus Foundation
As you might know, this is a personal one for me. Watching someone you love battle this disease changes everything. Lupus is invisible to most people, yet it takes lives, steals energy, and reshapes futures in ways many can’t see. That’s why I will use every opportunity I have to raise awareness. Supporting this foundation means funding research, advocacy, and resources that bring hope and relief to people who are fighting this disease of which too little is known.
Lupus Foundation
Dutch Civilian Action
Ukraine is literally fighting for its life, and in the process, fighting to keep Europe safe from a full invasion. Civilians are being murdered every day, families are torn apart, and yet the world’s attention is fading. Dutch Civilian Action is small but mighty; they get aid directly to people on the ground where it’s needed most.
Dutch Civilian Action
Honorary mention: my girl Asja – artist, activist, and all-around powerhouse. With roots in Ukraine, she turns her art into action, selling her prints and putting the proceeds toward causes back home.
Panzi Foundation (DR Congo – Women & Children)
Congo doesn’t get half the media coverage it deserves. Right now, women and children are being brutally assaulted and murdered at terrifying, increasing rates. Sexual violence is being used as a weapon of war. Panzi Foundation, led by Nobel laureate Dr. Denis Mukwege, is one of the few organizations bringing true healing—medical, emotional, and even legal help for survivors.
Panzi Foundation
Curaçao4Palestine
Palestine has been under siege for decades, and right now Gaza is enduring unimaginable violence. Curaçao4Palestine is my Caribbean people showing up with courage—organizing protests, vigils, and petitions to demand a ceasefire and real humanitarian aid. They’re proving that even a small island can raise a loud voice for justice.
Curaçao4Palestine Donations & Petitions
Freedom Flotilla Coalition
You might have seen them as Israhell continuously kidnapped the volunteers. The Freedom Flotilla is a global civilian solidarity movement formed in 2010, challenging Israel’s illegal blockade of Gaza through non-violent direct action. They organize maritime missions like the June 2025 “Madleen” voyage carrying activists such as Greta Thunberg and humanitarian aid to break the siege, raise awareness, and demand justice. Their work includes legal advocacy, global public outreach, and responding to urgent requests from Gaza’s civil society.
Freedom Flotilla “Who We Are”
If you once again made it all the way to the end here; thank you. Some of you already know I love going all out for my birthday and stretching the celebration into a whole week (because why not?). But this time, it also feels like the best way to celebrate the honor of making it another year; is by highlighting causes bigger than myself.
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