Social Impact Heroes: Why & How Jurgen van Schaijk of Amsterdam Manor Beach Resort Aruba Is Helping To Change Our World
An Interview With Stanley Bronstein
Give back without expecting recognition. — True generosity is about making a difference, not making headlines. The most fulfilling contributions are the quiet ones.
As part of my series about “individuals and organizations making an important social impact”, I had the pleasure of interviewing Jurgen van Schaijk.
Jurgen van Schaijk is the owner and managing director of Amsterdam Manor Beach Resort in Aruba, and a pioneering force in sustainable hospitality. Under his leadership, the resort has achieved global recognition for its environmental initiatives, earning certifications from both Travelife and EarthCheck. Beyond business, Jurgen plays a key role in community development — most notably through the Jurgen van Schaijk Care Foundation, which empowers employees to support meaningful causes across Aruba.
Thank you so much for joining us in this interview series! Can you tell us a story about what brought you to this specific career path?
My journey in hospitality has always been driven by a passion for creating meaningful experiences. From the beginning, I believed that a resort should be more than just a place to stay — it should make a positive impact on both the environment and the local community. When I took over Amsterdam Manor, I made sustainability a priority, even before it became a wider industry trend. Aruba’s natural beauty is our greatest asset, and I saw an opportunity to build a business that not only thrives but also gives back to our island.
Can you share the most interesting story that happened to you since you began leading your company or organization?
One of the most rewarding moments was when we achieved the resort’s first global sustainability certification. It wasn’t just about receiving an award — it was about proving that a small, independent hotel could lead the way in sustainable tourism. Seeing our guests and employees embrace the initiatives — from reducing plastic waste to protecting Aruba’s sea turtles — was a powerful reminder that responsible tourism is a shared effort.
It has been said that our mistakes can be our greatest teachers. Can you share a story about the funniest mistake you made when you were first starting? Can you tell us what lesson you learned from that?
Early on, I thought I could personally oversee every single detail of the resort. One day, I decided to help with the landscaping, thinking I could improve the layout. Instead, I accidentally removed an important irrigation pipe, causing a small flood! It was a humbling moment that taught me that great leadership means trusting your team and focusing on strategy rather than trying to manage everything yourself.
Can you describe how you or your organization is making a significant social impact?
Amsterdam Manor Beach Resort is built on the philosophy that business and social responsibility go hand in hand. We actively support Aruba’s sustainability goals by minimizing our carbon footprint, eliminating single-use plastics, and participating in conservation efforts, such as protecting the island’s nesting sea turtles.
Beyond environmental efforts, our employees have established the Jurgen van Schaijk Care Foundation, which allows our team to contribute to meaningful social causes. Through monthly contributions, our employees support local initiatives — from education programs to assistance for vulnerable families. This initiative reflects our shared commitment to making a lasting impact beyond hospitality.
Can you tell us a story about a particular individual who was impacted or helped by your cause?
One of the most touching moments was when a local student, who had struggled financially, received a scholarship through one of our initiatives. Years later, he returned to Amsterdam Manor — not as a guest, but as a professional in the tourism industry. Knowing we played a small part in his journey was incredibly rewarding and reaffirmed our belief in investing in Aruba’s future.
Are there three things the community, society, or politicians can do to help you address the root of the problem you are trying to solve?
- Stronger Environmental Regulations — Aruba’s government has taken great steps in banning single-use plastics, but more regulations are needed to protect our fragile ecosystem, especially within the tourism sector.
- Education on Sustainability — Teaching sustainability from an early age ensures that future generations continue these efforts. Schools and businesses should collaborate more to make this a priority.
- Support for Local Businesses — The hospitality industry should work together to prioritize locally sourced products, which would not only strengthen the economy but also reduce environmental impact.
How do you define “Leadership”? Can you explain what you mean or give an example?
Leadership is about inspiring people to share a vision and empowering them to take ownership of that mission. I don’t believe in simply giving orders — I believe in working alongside my team and creating opportunities for them to grow. A great example is the Care Foundation, which was actually initiated by our employees. They wanted to give back to the community, and I simply helped facilitate the idea. That’s what I believe true leadership is — helping others find and fulfill their purpose.
What are your “5 things I wish someone told me when I first started” and why?
- Sustainability is a long game. — Change doesn’t happen overnight. When we first introduced eco-friendly practices, many people were skeptical. Today, it’s a standard in the industry.
- Trust your team. — Trying to do everything yourself is a fast track to burnout. Surround yourself with passionate people and let them lead.
- Profit and purpose can coexist. — Many believe that sustainability costs more, but in the long run, it creates a more resilient business.
- Listen to your guests. — Their feedback shapes your success. Many of our best sustainability initiatives came from guest suggestions.
- Give back without expecting recognition. — True generosity is about making a difference, not making headlines. The most fulfilling contributions are the quiet ones.
You are a person of enormous influence. If you could inspire a movement that would bring the most amount of good to the most amount of people, what would that be?
I would champion a global movement in hospitality where every resort, big or small, commits to sustainability and community impact. Imagine if every hotel took just one step — eliminating plastic bottles, partnering with local businesses, or supporting education. The impact would be monumental.
Can you please give us your favorite “Life Lesson Quote”? Can you share how that was relevant to you in your life?
“We do not inherit the Earth from our ancestors; we borrow it from our children.”
This quote reminds me that sustainability isn’t just about the present — it’s about ensuring future generations can enjoy the same natural beauty that we experience today.
Is there a person in the world, or in the US with whom you would like to have a private breakfast or lunch with, and why?
I would love to have lunch with Richard Branson. His approach to sustainable business and his willingness to challenge traditional models in the hospitality industry are things I deeply admire. I believe we could have an inspiring conversation about creating long-term, meaningful change.
How can our readers further follow your work online?
You can follow Amsterdam Manor Beach Resort’s sustainability journey on our website and social media:
- Website: www.amsterdammanor.com
- Instagram: @amsterdammanor
- Facebook: Amsterdam Manor Beach Resort
This was very meaningful, thank you so much. We wish you only continued success in your great work!
About the Interviewer: Stanley Bronstein is an attorney, CPA, and author of more than 20 books. However, he doesn’t consider any of those his greatest achievement. His most significant accomplishment was permanently losing 225 pounds and developing the personal growth system that made it possible — The Way of Excellence. As a catalyst for change, he has dedicated his life to helping others maximize their potential, transform their lives, and achieve optimal health. To learn more, you can download a free PDF copy of his latest book, The Way of Excellence Journal, at https://TheWayOfExcellence.com.
Social Impact Heroes: Why & How Jurgen van Schaijk of Amsterdam Manor Beach Resort Aruba Is Helping… was originally published in Authority Magazine on Medium, where people are continuing the conversation by highlighting and responding to this story.