SURINAME VISIT May 2024

Back to the roots: BONI GYM in Suriname

In May 2024, we embarked on a journey that was more than just a work trip. We dubbed it a  pilgrimage back to our roots, to the birthplace of resilience, freedom, and strength—Suriname. For BONI GYM, this trip wasn’t merely about producing content; it was about rediscovering the essence of who we are and why we exist. It was about connecting the past with the present, honoring our legacy, and laying the foundation for the future.

The mission: Capturing the spirit of BONI

Our primary goal was twofold: to shoot our first campaign and to document the extraordinary story of Boni, the legendary freedom fighter, and Ro Dors, the visionary founder of BONI GYM. Both figures symbolise what BONI stands for—the unbreakable bond between mental and physical strength, the fight for freedom, and the pursuit of personal and collective advancement.

The campaign and documentary were designed to capture the spirit of resilience and transformation. We wanted to show how the legacy of Boni—a Maroon tribe leader who fought for his people’s freedom—and the discipline of BONI GYM come together to inspire a new generation.

A month in Suriname: Meerzorg and beyond

We spent an entire month in Suriname, based in Meerzorg, at our family home. This house was more than just a place to stay; it was a space of reflection, connection, and grounding. It reminded us of the importance of family and the strength that comes from knowing where you come from.

Each day started with training—not just for the body, but for the mind. The lush, green environment of Suriname provided the perfect backdrop for reconnecting with nature and focusing on our purpose. Training in this setting was a reminder of how deeply physical movement and mental clarity are intertwined.

But it wasn’t all work. Being home in Suriname also meant reconnecting with the community, enjoying local food, and immersing ourselves in the culture. From early morning runs to sharing stories with locals, every moment was a testament to the strength and beauty of this land and its people.

Journey to the interior

One of the most transformative parts of the trip was traveling to Suriname’s interior. Here, we visited the land where Boni once led his people to freedom. Walking through the dense jungle, we could feel the spirit of resilience and determination that defined Boni’s life. It was humbling to be in a place where history was not just remembered but felt in every tree, river, and path.

These travels were more than just a history lesson; they were an experience of reconnection. We saw firsthand the strength of the people who live in these remote areas and how their lives reflect the same balance of mental and physical resilience that BONI GYM strives to teach.

The work: campaign and documentary

The campaign shoot was an incredible experience. We worked with local talent, capturing the raw beauty of Suriname and the essence of BONI. From training sessions in the jungle to serene moments of reflection by the riverside, every frame told a story of strength, balance, and purpose.

Simultaneously, we delved into the documentary, which tells the intertwined stories of Boni and Ro Dors. Ro’s journey from Amsterdam to Suriname and his unwavering dedication to teaching the principles of BONI GYM became a cornerstone of the narrative. Through interviews, archival footage, and real-time moments, we began weaving together a story that honors the past while inspiring the future.

What we learned

This trip taught us so much more than we expected. It reminded us that BONI is not just a brand or a gym—it’s a movement rooted in history, resilience, and community. It’s about finding balance in life’s toughest moments and using adversity as a stepping stone for growth.

Suriname gave us the space to reconnect with our purpose. It reminded us why we do what we do. Standing on the same soil where Boni once fought for freedom and where Ro continues to teach, we felt an unshakable sense of responsibility to carry this legacy forward.

Looking ahead

As we return to Amsterdam and prepare to share the campaign and documentary with the world, we do so with a renewed sense of purpose. BONI is more than a gym; it’s a story of strength, balance, and advancement. And now, that story is ready to inspire a global community.

To everyone who has been part of this journey—from Suriname to Amsterdam—thank you. This is just the beginning. Together, we will honor the past, embrace the present, and build a future rooted in resilience and strength.


#BONIGYM #Suriname #Legacy