The event took place in Nicaragua, where Suriname was represented from October 22 to 25, 2026. According to the ministerie van Buitenlandse Zaken, Internationale Handel en Samenwerking (BIS) (Ministry of Foreign Affairs, International Trade and Cooperation), the participation focused on cultural exchange and strengthening cooperation between the two countries.
Fashion designer Irokromo took part in Nicaragua Diseña for the third consecutive time. With his latest collection, he drew the international public’s attention to elements of Indigenous culture and the natural diversity of the Amazon region.
Singer Rodney Deekman also contributed to the Surinamese presentation. The artist, who had travelled as Irokromo’s assistant, gave a musical performance during the fashion show at the Olof Palme Convention Center on Sunday, October 25. According to the ministry, his performance earned him an invitation to perform at another venue as well.
Surinamese ambassador pays official visit
As part of the event, Suriname’s ambassador to Cuba, Genia Lank-Corinde, paid an official visit to Nicaragua at the invitation of Camila Ortega Murillo, general director of Nicaragua Diseña. She was accompanied by embassy secretary Lilian Maria Wiebers.
During the visit, the ambassador and representatives of the organisation became acquainted with various cultural and creative centres. The cities of San Juan de Oriente, Masaya, Managua and Granada were visited. A visit to Niquinohomo was also on the programme, the birthplace of General Augusto César Sandino, who is regarded in Nicaragua as a national hero and symbol of sovereignty.
According to the ministry, the visits were aimed at exploring opportunities for further cooperation within the creative industry, including fashion, art and cultural productions.
Further expanding cultural cooperation
Suriname’s participation in Nicaragua Diseña began in 2024, under the leadership of then ambassador Wendy Paulus-Aminta. Since then, Suriname has been represented at the event annually. The Surinamese embassy in Cuba also played a facilitating role this year in the participation of Surinamese artists and designers.
According to the ministry, the event offers opportunities to bring Surinamese creative talent to international attention and establish new partnerships. The embassy expresses its appreciation for the reception by the Nicaraguan government and the population. Suriname wishes to further deepen existing cultural relations, including through cooperation in the fields of fashion, music and other creative sectors.
