People

Corendon celebrates 25 years with Courage Awards during MASTERS EXPO

9 december 2025Door Fleur de Jong2 min lezenMASTERS EXPO NEWS

A quarter-century of Corendon calls for more than just a celebration. That's why the travel organization is introducing an annual award for people who make a difference with nothing but courage, perseverance, and decisiveness. The very first Corendon Courage Awards will be presented on December 11th during MASTERS EXPO. Want a sneak peek? Here are the nominees. 

Creative artist

  • Daily Paper, founders Hussein Suleiman, Jefferson Osei, and Abderrahmane Trabsini. From a blog in 2008, the brand grew into an international streetwear label, inspired by African culture and community. They use fashion as a cultural statement.
  • Umut Veysel Demirtaş, pianist and composer. This Dutch pianist and composer tells a unique musical story through his original works and performances.
  • Sebastiaan van Leeuwen, designer, sneaker restorer and designer with an eye for craftsmanship, sustainability and high-quality custom sneakers.

Sports

  • Fleur Jong, Paralympic athlete. Paralympic champion and world record holder in the sprint and long jump. She is a powerful example of perseverance and a top-level sports mentality.
  • Worthy de Jong, basketball player. He's a former professional basketball player and coach, a national team veteran, and renowned for his leadership and influence on basketball culture.
  • Don Sno, kickboxer. Dutch kickboxer and professional fighter for Glory. He is known for his rapid international rise.

Fearless Founder

  • Monica Geuze, entrepreneur and influencer. As an entrepreneur and influential Dutch creator, she built a strong personal brand, launched successful product lines, and inspires a new generation of female entrepreneurs.
  • Nada Merrachi, fashion entrepreneur. She is the founder of Merrachi, a lifestyle and fashion platform for women within the Islamic culture. Nada combines fashion, empowerment, and community building to create social impact.
  • Menno Streefland, entrepreneur. An innovative entrepreneur in tech and hospitality, he is known for his pragmatic approach and progressive vision of digital solutions.

Impact Hero

  • Eva Eikhout, presenter. Eva is a program maker, presenter, and speaker who is committed to the inclusion and visibility of people with disabilities, with a sharp wit and storytelling.
  • Jörgen Raymann, program maker and stand-up comedian. Known as a comedian, presenter, and socially engaged speaker who advocates for mental health, equal opportunities, and positive role models.
  • Tommy Tomato, founders Bas Turk and Erik van der Plas. A socially entrepreneurial initiative that offers primary school children healthy, vegetable-rich lunches, with real social impact.

Oeuvre Award

The Oeuvre Award honors someone who has made a lasting impression through a long career and tireless dedication. The winner will be announced during the ceremony.

Who will ultimately take home the honor and the object, a work by visual artist Lieuwe van Gogh?  On December 11th, the Corendon Courage Awards will be presented at 15:00 PM during MASTERS EXPO at the HOUSE OF GREATNESS.