Famous People from Aruba
Though Aruba is a small island with a population under 120,000, it has produced notable figures in sports, entertainment, politics, and culture—many of whom have gained international recognition while also uplifting Aruban identity.
1. Xander Bogaerts – Baseball Star
- Most famous Aruban internationally
- MLB player (Boston Red Sox, San Diego Padres)
- 2× World Series Champion
- Role model and ambassador for youth sports in Aruba
2. Bobby Farrell – Musician (Boney M)
- Lead singer and dancer of the legendary disco group Boney M
- Born in Aruba in 1949
- Known globally for hits like “Rasputin”, “Daddy Cool”, and “Ma Baker”
3. Gilberto “Gil” Figaroa – Musician & Composer
- Popular Aruban singer-songwriter
- Known for Caribbean rhythms, jazz, and waltzes
- Preserves Papiamento-language music
4. Tica Giel – Actress & Producer
- Prominent figure in Aruba’s theater and film scene
- Promotes Caribbean storytelling and Aruban cultural arts
5. Evelyn Wever-Croes – Prime Minister
- First female Prime Minister of Aruba
- In office since 2017
- Advocates for education, public health, and women’s rights
6. Jeon (Jonathan Thiel) – Music Artist
- Aruba-born singer, songwriter, and music producer
- Known for the hit song “Machika” with J Balvin and Anitta
- Blends Caribbean and Latin music styles
7. Anuar Habibe – Author & Historian
- Known for books on Aruban history, identity, and Papiamento language
- Cultural educator and public speaker
8. Olinda Craane – Pioneer Educator
- One of Aruba’s earliest and most influential female teachers
- Advocated for education reform in the mid-20th century
9. Allyson Ponson – Olympic Swimmer
- National swimming champion
- Represented Aruba in 2016 & 2020 Olympics
- Holds multiple national records
10. Betico Croes – Political Leader & National Hero
- Key figure in Aruba’s struggle for autonomy
- Instrumental in Aruba gaining “Status Aparte” in 1986
- Honored every year on Betico Croes Day (January 25)
