"Chichis are so much more than just a big sister; they capture the embraces, the pride and the heritage of many Curaçaoan women," Israel explained. "During WWI, the Chichis came to the forefront because the mothers were working while many of the men were away fighting. They had to take control of the family, which often meant they had no time for a school education. So Chichis became pillars of the Curaçaoan families – they held them together."