In a significant recognition of cultural preservation and journalistic excellence, the Surinamese-Rotterdam Pin (SuRo-speld) has been conferred upon distinguished journalist Ranu Abhelakh and accomplished entrepreneur Bhiesnoe Gopal. The prestigious awards were presented by Koemar Khargi, President of Satya Dharma Netherlands-Suriname, during a formal ceremony attended by community leaders and cultural advocates.
Ranu Abhelakh received the honor for her two-decade career as a freelance journalist specializing in Surinamese society and culture. Since 2000, she has masterfully combined writing and photojournalism to explore themes of connection, identity, and development within the Surinamese community. Her work has featured prominently in Hindorama and various international media outlets, presenting authentic perspectives on Suriname’s cultural landscape. Abhelakh has also authored several literary works and biographical projects, including her comprehensive documentation ‘155 Years of Suriname’s Court of Justice,’ which traces the shared legal history between Suriname and the Netherlands.
Bhiesnoe Gopal was recognized for his entrepreneurial leadership and dedication to social and cultural initiatives through his organization Gopex. His family embodies a remarkable legacy of agricultural excellence and business continuity—his grandfather received a gold medal from Queen Juliana of the Netherlands in 1956 for operating Suriname’s finest agricultural enterprise. As a third-generation steward, Gopal maintains this tradition of craftsmanship and deep connection to Surinamese soil through his family business.
The nominations were formally put forward by Ramon Ramsodit, former President of Satya Dharma, and advisor Ram Rambartsingh, highlighting both recipients’ exceptional contributions to preserving and promoting Surinamese cultural heritage both locally and internationally.