At 23 years old, Ricardo Enrique Arends Cardona is a source of inspiration, demonstrating that the new generation is ready and committed to promoting and preserving the identity, culture, and history of Aruba.

Born in Colombia but raised in Aruba, Ricardo has proven that passion and dedication can be the spark for real change. After completing his basic education in Aruba, he pursued his studies in the Netherlands, where his passion for storytelling and experience design took shape. Now, as the Director of Operations and Marketing for "Aruba Downtown Walking Tours" and Lighthouse, Ricardo is leading the way in offering unique cultural experiences to both residents and tourists. Without a doubt, he is a stronghold in his efforts to maintain and celebrate who we are as Arubans: Ricardo is a true VOICE OF OUR LAND.

"I grew up in Cunuku Abou, near Bubali, living in a trailer with my family. Near our house, there was a lot of wilderness, and after school, I enjoyed playing in the woods, riding bikes, or finding anything to do outside because I didn't have a PlayStation," Ricardo shares with us, giving an intimate glimpse into his humble beginnings and deep connection with the island of Aruba.

From a young age, Ricardo's curiosity knew no bounds. He participated in various sports, from baseball, soccer, swimming, basketball, tennis, tae-kwon-do, to painting and drum lessons, and was also involved in scouting. But his fascination with history manifested later. "In high school, I had history as a subject, and there I was obliged to like it because I needed to pass. But that's why I always say, expect the unexpected, now my job revolves around history and culture, and my project with the monument fund is entirely focused on history."

"I am a final year HBO student, specializing in Leisure and Events Management with a focus on Storytelling in Experience Design. Additionally, I am a Co-owner of Island Inspirations by VL and Operations and Marketing Director of Bookaruba, known as Aruba Downtown Walking Tours and also Lighthouse, I am responsible for ensuring the smooth operation of the company by preparing schedules for the workers, communicating with ships, hotels, and also tourists. Manage reservations, etc. I also maintain an active presence on social media for the company." All of this while I am also a father; I have a 1-year-old daughter named Leilani. In his current job, Ricardo is putting his education and passion into practice, creating tours that illustrate the beauty and depth of Aruban history and culture. "The success of the walking tours is based on the fact that we are unique and celebrate the richness of Oranjestad’s history and culture."

"Everyone says this, and everyone knows this, but they don't want to delve deeper to learn more or to educate more people. However, we can't blame them either because I find that there is a lack of emphasis on our history and culture, and importantly, a more modern way to present this, especially to our youth. This refers to the effort needed to create educational materials and interactive experiences specifically aimed at the new generation. “By chance, a few weeks ago, we had a group of about 60 students from Schakel College participate in the tour. They are the only school that has participated in our Historic and Cultural tour for over a year. We are always open to taking students, local children, or families to participate in our tour.”

On February 21, 2024, the unveiling of the cultural project 'Eagle Historic Route' took place. A project initiated by the Stichting Monumentenfonds Aruba in collaboration with students from Hogeschool van Rotterdam and Ricardo Arends, it tells the story of Aruba's second refinery, Arend Petroleum Company known as Eagle Refinery, the Eagle neighborhood, and Aruba's significant role for the allies during World War II. Ricardo's role in this project was crucial.