More Than a Dance Group
Popcorn Club Aruba was founded in 1989 with a clear purpose: to guide young people toward growth, responsibility, and leadership through structured artistic development.
What the public sees on stage is only the visible result of a deeper process. Behind every performance is preparation, accountability, and commitment. We use the performing arts as a framework where young people learn to show up, work together, and take ownership of their progress.
For more than 36 years, Popcorn Club has created a space where young people are challenged to rise beyond their comfort zone and discover their potential.
We are committed to one clear purpose: empowering youth to strive for a better future.
More Than Activities. Real Impact.
At Popcorn Club, we do not focus on isolated events — we build structured journeys.
Every workshop, rehearsal, exchange, or leadership program is part of a broader development path. Young people are not simply participants — they are contributors, creators, and future mentors.
Our approach is built on three principles:
Responsibility before recognition
Growth through discipline
Opportunity through action
We listen to the youth.
We challenge them to take initiative.
We support them as they grow.
Through local programs and international opportunities, Popcorn Club creates environments where young people learn not only how to perform — but how to lead.
We Don’t Just Perform. We Transform.
Meet some of the People Behind the Movement
Part of the wider community of mentors, volunteers, and leaders powering Popcorn.
Freddy Tromp
Founder & Director
Freddy founded Popcorn in 1989 with the vision of empowering young people through arts, culture, and personal development. For decades he has dedicated himself to creating opportunities where youth can grow, lead, and strive for a better future.
Pedro Kock (Joontje)
Vice & Chief Program Officer
Joontje has been part of Popcorn since the age of 15. Having grown within the movement, he is deeply committed to empowering young people and creating opportunities for the next generation through mentorship, leadership, and meaningful youth programs.
Elsa Krozendijk
ESC Program Coordinator / Youth Worker
Elsa is dedicated to supporting young people through international volunteering and youth development. Through her work with the European Solidarity Corps, she helps guide and mentor participants while creating meaningful learning experiences and opportunities for personal growth.
Jhon Freddy Montoya
Program Coordinator / Youth Worker
Jhon Freddy joined Popcorn at a very young age after immigrating to Aruba. Passionate about mentoring youth, he helps guide young people while proudly sharing his love for Aruba and its culture.
Eldselyn Figaroa
Content Creator / Youth Worker
Eldselyn is a talented writer and composer who has been part of Popcorn for more than 15 years. With creativity and dedication, she continues to give her all in supporting the movement and inspiring young people.
Yuraima Merencia (Julie)
Local Program Coordinator / ESC Mentor
Julie is deeply committed to youth development and community engagement. As an ESC mentor and program coordinator, she supports young people with guidance and care while contributing her expertise to strengthen Popcorn’s programs and inspire the next generation.
Institutional & Government Partners
Public institutions and cultural authorities supporting our long-term mission in youth development, arts, and community impact.
European & International Programme Partners
International collaboration through European programmes and cross-border youth partnerships.
Sponsors & Private Sector Collaborators
Corporate partners and companies who trust Popcorn to serve their guests and community.
