31/03/2026
Across the globe, sororities and communities are marking Women’s History Month. Here in Aruba, we join this celebration by honoring both our past and our present female leaders. On this final day of the month, we pay special tribute to a pioneering figure in Aruba’s history: Evelyn Wever-Croes.
Evelyn Wever-Croes was born on December 5, 1966, in Leiden, Netherlands, to a politically engaged Aruban family. She was the eldest of 3. Her early education in Aruba provided her with the foundation for a future in law and politics. Demonstrating exceptional academic ability, she graduated from Colegio Arubano at just 17, completing the VWO program.
Family Roots in Leadership
Evelyn, whose full name is Evelyna Christina Wever-Croes, grew up in a nurturing Catholic home with her two siblings. Her family was immersed in Aruba’s political landscape: her uncles, including the influential Betico Croes, were key figures in the island’s quest for greater autonomy. Evelyn’s father worked as a lawyer, while her mother dedicated herself to teaching—both instilling in her the values of service, determination, and community involvement.
Honoring Achievements
By becoming Aruba’s first female Prime Minister, Evelyn Wever-Croes has broken barriers and set a powerful example for future generations of women leaders. Her dedication to public service reflects the broader commitment of women worldwide whose contributions have shaped societies, inspired progress, and championed equality.
Through recognizing her life and accomplishments, we not only celebrate a remarkable leader but also honor the legacy of women who continue to drive positive change in Aruba and beyond.
After completing her secondary education in Aruba, Wever-Croes pursued Antillean law at the University of the Netherlands Antilles from 1985 to 1986. She then moved to the Netherlands to earn a Master’s degree in Tax Law at Leiden University between 1986 and 1989 This education equipped her with the technical expertise necessary for her later career in tax law and public administration.
Influence of Upbringing on Career
Wever-Croes’ upbringing in a politically engaged family, combined with her rigorous academic training, shaped her career trajectory: she entered the Aruban government tax department in 1989, eventually becoming head of the department by 1994, and later transitioned to a private legal career before entering politics in 2009
Her early exposure to Aruban political history and governance likely informed her human-centered and reform-oriented leadership style as Prime Minister.
In summary, Evelyn Wever-Croes' upbringing was defined by political exposure, educational opportunity in Aruba, and early legal training, all of which contributed to her capabilities as a pioneering female leader in Caribbean politics.
