On-Stage Latin America was founded in 2006 by Onno Bierman and (Tjitske) Suzanne de Winne. Even before they dreamed about each other, the dream about living abroad and doing work that mattered was present. Suzanne already had quite some experience working abroad at a young age. Her summer jobs were mostly abroad, her main internship was in Chili and during her years as a student she worked for the high-end international catering company Do&Co attending Formula 1 Grand Prix worldwide and many other international events. Especially after her work experience in Ecuador she was well aware that the world had more to offer then just life in the Netherlands.

But hey, you can't keep dreaming all your life. After getting her degree and travelling for a while, it was time for some serious business and start at a 'real' job. That's what you're supposed to do after all. When Onno and Suzanne met, they found out they had many shared ideas and wishes, especially the ones of living abroad and doing work that matters. Onno had just returned from working a few months in Austria as a ski instructor. He as well figured out that for him there were more possibilities in life then just living the rat race in the Netherlands. Quickly the pair moved in together, not just for fun, but as well to find out if they really liked each other and to be able to put money aside to realize their dreams. Fortunately they really did like each other and their plans to live their life abroad started taking form. What did they want exactly? What could they do? And how?? They were looking for one good idea to combine all their wishes together. An under-developed country would be a good choice; at least their savings would be of good use. With their Dutch heritage, education and knowledge

of language they had to offer more than the average local person. The third world country of choice became Nicaragua: a beautiful, safe and, above all, a fun country, with lovely people and a lot of challenging opportunities. This country is developing fast and is open to knowledge and new ideas. In the Netherlands there is an abundance of knowledge, and in exchange, Nicaragua offers a social culture, adventure and an abundance of nature. A socially responsible (internship) mediation company seemed be a perfect fit. With something like this they could contribute to the development of the country as well as to the students. On-Stage Nicaragua was born.

During the first years, the advantages and needs of Nicaragua became more clear. and Now On-Stage Nicaragua doesn't just provide internships, but also volunteering options and other education-related activities. On-Stage has expanded to Ecuador and Costa Rica, therefore the name On-Stage Latin America was introduced.

"I never believed in the version of freedom which is achieved -according to some- by working for a big company and being paid well. It appears to me that this is a way of life where the things you are considered to own, eventually will own and control you. A lot of people are the possession of their possessions. Those people appear to see things different, but it is the truth."- John Lanchester