English 
Nederlands The Mondi Tribe
Justin Niessen - The Chef
Justin Niessen — Chef & Co-Founder, Mondi
Born in Curaçao and trained in the Netherlands from the age of 18, Justin Niessen brings a modern, globally minded lens to Caribbean cuisine. His cooking celebrates the islands’ diversity—bold flavors, fresh ingredients, and refined technique—transforming “Caribbean soul food” into vibrant, contemporary dishes with international appeal. The name Mondi (Papiamentu for Curaçao’s wild countryside) nods to his earliest memories of freedom and ease—feelings he channels into every plate.
Justin honed his craft at De Machinist, Las Palmas, Fresh Food Friends in the Markthal, and Fellini. He reached a national audience as a MasterChef Netherlands finalist (2016) and was named Best Newcomer by De Buik van Rotterdam (2017).
Today, as Chef and Co-Founder of Mondi, he introduces the world to Caribbean culture—one dish at a time. From Amsterdam (New West and Badhoevedorp) to Curaçao (Mondi City Beach and Mondi Jan Thiel) and beyond, Justin’s mission is simple: elevate island flavors on a global stage while keeping their soul intact.
Mariska Nunes - Director of Development & Managing Director of Mondi
Mariska Nunes is Managing Director of development at Corendon Hotels & Resorts and previously launched initiatives such as the Corendon Academy and the single parent travel concept Maris Life. While being the Managing director at Mondi Restaurants, she is also a board member of the Smart Zwart Collective, a dynamic and influential network consisting of professionals of colour, who are connected through inspiration and stimulation, and the Corendon Foundation.
Kiana Cova - Brand - Marketing director
Kiana Cova is the “creative brain” behind the Mondi brand and was hired by Mariska and Justin in October 2021. Her background includes two bachelors, one in Business Administration and one in International Business as well as a Masters in Luxury Brand Management. Her experience in diverse industries from events to fashion to hospitality, combined with her vision for the brand has catapulted Mondi into one of Amsterdam’s most popular hot spots.