WILLEMSTAD - Odette Doest and Bob de Flamingo are a household name in Curaçao. Not only that: photos of this famous pair have appeared worldwide, including in the National Geographic.
Jasper Doest, Odette's cousin and photographer, won two prizes for best photo at the 2019 World Press Photo gala.
He came up with the idea of capturing Odette and Flamingo Bob on film.
That has become a beautiful photo reportage that has now been bundled and published in a book.
Odette was surprised on Sunday by Tania Kross at the country house on Blue Bay and received the very first copy from her. The opera singer is a good friend of Odette: "Fortunately for us, there is an Odette who makes us aware that animals deserve a dignified and safe place on earth, despite the fact that they have to live among people."
This fun event was preceded by weeks of organization and secrecy. Unfortunately, due to Covid restrictions, only 50 guests were present. According to Tanja it could easily have been 500 without Covid.
Odette was totally surprised and moved: "I have many fantastic birds in my life, but Bob was a blessing in disguise".
The book “MEET BOB” will soon be available in bookstores.
The entire proceeds from the sale of the book will of course go to Fundashon Dier en Onderwijs Cariben, founded by Odette herself.
This foundation provides housing and medical care for injured or sick animals until they can be returned to nature.
Education is also provided in schools to make children more aware of our eco system.