caribbean life impact awards 2015

8/15/2019 Caribbean Life Impact Awards 2015

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www.caribbeanlifenews.com November 13—19, 2015

Brooklyn/Staten ISland edItIon


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Caribbean Life, November 13—19, 2015 BQ


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Caribbean Life, November 13—1BQ

Selflessness, determination, andpassion — three attributesembodied by those living witha purpose of serving others.

Touching the lives of all they comeacross with stories of triumph overadversity and a willingness to be a com-munity’s support system, CaribbeanLife is pleased to celebrate those ofCaribbean American heritage impact-ing the lives of many.

Whether through business or thearts, the formation of organizations,or various community boards, the32 individuals lauded in these pagesare pillars of the communities theyserve.

Ranging in age, experience, and rep-resenting a myriad of Caribbean coun-tries, our 2015 Impact Awardees are alllinked by their distinguished work to beanchors of change.

Their stories, told here, are inspira-tional. You will read about:

• A Jamaican American who left WallStreet to pursue her passion for design,and has now been named as a Top 20

African-American Interior Designer forfour consecutive years.

• A motivational speaker who, asa youngster in Bermuda, got kicked

out of school 37 times. Today he does volunteer speaking engagements fortroubled youth.

• The 20 year old chief executive

officer of a hair and body productscompany who started a foundation inHaiti that provides 200 children withan education and three meals a day.

• And many more stories like these.In addition to this publication, our

honorees’ achievements will be com-memorated at the Impact Awards Galaon the evening of Thursday, November19th at Paradise Catering in Brooklyn.This newspaper takes great pride infurther recognizing these leaders atthe gala event amongst their friends,families, and other supporters.

We wish to thank you, our readers,for your involvement in the nomina-

tion process for the Caribbean LifeImpact Awards. You brought many ofthese awardees to our attention, and

without you many of these heroes would remain unsung.

Now sit back and take in the inspir-ing stories of the 2015 Impact Award

winners. We hope you enjoy readingthem as much as we did bringing themto you. - Caribbean Life

Celebrating thosewho make an impact

Gala MC: Claudette Powell

caribbean life impact awards

Our 2015 Impact Awards Mas-

ter of Ceremonies is a Carib-bean American who has hada major impact here and in

the Caribbean.Claudette Powell has earned the

respect of her peers for her extraor-dinary career in healthcare and forher volunteerism in the United Statesand abroad, a journey that has tappedextensively into hospitals and commu-nity-based programs.

“It’s an honor to host this year’saward ceremony as I share such a spe-cial moment with each honoree,” saidPowell. “There are so many leaders inthe Caribbean American community

and it’s great that Caribbean Life news-paper has chosen to recognize theiraccomplishments.”

Currently employed at Health andHospitals Corporation Home HealthCare Regulatory Affairs, Powell has

worked in the healthcare industry formore than 35 years. She is the pastpresident of the Caribbean AmericanNurses Association, co-chairwomanfor Jamaican Diaspora Health Sector’snortheastern chapter, member of theUnion of Jamaican Alumni Associa-tions, and vice president of St. Hugh’s

Alumni Association’s New York Chap-ter. She is the recent past-president and

current vice-president of the Jamai-

ca Nurses Group of New York. Shealso serves on the CARICOM ConsularCorps health committee in New York.

Powell has earned numerous recog-nitions, including CANA’s Excellence inNursing Award; the Women Celebrat-ing Women award from the Honor-able Dr. Una Clarke; the Humanitarian

Award from the Sickle Cell Trust; theOutstanding Service Award from theNew York Black Nurses Association;the Distinguished Health Professional

Award from Assemblyman Nick Perry;Caribbean Life’s Caribbean AmericanHealthcare Award; and the GovernorGeneral’s Achievement Award for Excel-lence, Diaspora USA. The latter plauditis notable because only two Americansreceive this award bi-annually, making

it an unparalleled honor.

Impact Awards

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Fax to (718) 260-2579 or

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Valet ParkingCOCKTAILS AT 5:30 PM –

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YOU ARE INVITED TO JOIN

ON NOVEMBER 19TH


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INDEX OF PROFILESALTON AIMABLE ............................................................

JOAN ALEXANDER-BAKIRIDDIN .......................................

LEANNA ARCHER ..........................................................

KWAYERA ARCHER CUNNINGHAM ..................................

THOMAS BAILEY ............................................................

GORDON BERMENT .......................................................

GENEIVE BROWN METZGER ............................................

RICARDO BRYAN ...........................................................

ANDREA BULLENS .........................................................

ANISHKA CLARKE ..........................................................

SABRINA CLINTON & ELIJAH KNIGHT ..............................

RICHARD DAVID ............................................................

ROY HASTICK ................................................................

DENNIS HAWTHORNE ....................................................

LOWELL HAWTHORNE ........... ........................................

EDGAR HENRY ..............................................................

ANNETTE HURD-RUNCIE ................................................

KARISMA JAY ................................................................

TERRENCE THEOPHILUS LAPIERRE .................................

JAMES LOVELL ..............................................................

PASTOR GILFORD MONROSE ...........................................

JUDY NEWTON ..............................................................

JUAN REYES .................................................................

NICOLE ROBINSON ETIENNE- ..........................................

DAVE RODNEY ...............................................................

NINA RODRIGUEZ ..........................................................

CARL STUART ...............................................................

VAUGHAN TONEY ..........................................................

DENNIS RAHIIM WATSON ...............................................

RUBY WOOD .................................................................

TIPHANIE YANIQUE ........................................................

CEO: Les Goodstein

President & Publisher: Jennifer Goodste

Associate Publisher: Ralph D’Onofrio

Managing Editor: Vince DiMiceli

Associate Editor: Kevin Michael Williams

Writer: Tequila Minsky

Art Director: Leah Mitch

Page Designer: Yvonne Farley

Photos By: Carroll Alvarado,

Georgine Benvenuto, Cate Dingley,

Stefano Giovannini, Metsh A. Renois,

Jason Speakman, Steve Solomonson,

Julce Weissman

Courier Life PubLiCations

1 MetroTech Ctr. North, 10th Floor,Brooklyn, NY 11201 (718) 260–2500

ImpactAwards

Congratulations on this special recognition to our Pastor

Gilford T. Monrose

May God’s favor continue to shine upon youas you, through His spirit, change lives!

All our love and support

Mt. Zion Church of God 7th Day 203 E. 37th Street • Brooklyn, NY. 11203

32 Court St. Suit 707

Brooklyn NY, 11201

718-625-6777 ext. 402

Congratulates

Anishka Clarkeon receiving the

Caribbean Life Impact Award 2015

Well deserved!


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is academic training in account-along with other studies in musicweb programming provided thedation for his online Tropicalfete.. He calls this website “the officiale of Car ibbean culture.”mable established Tropicalfete as

on-line publication and culturalurce center in 1999. In 2011, Tropi-te became a not-for-profit organi-

on.Whether it is carnival, dance,ic, drama, or anything else to doCaribbean culture, I am inspired

romote it though Tropicalfete.com.dream is to take Caribbean culturehe international level where it willccepted without discrimination ores,” he says.

With a mission to develop arts andsocial services within the community,he also focuses on educating the globalcommunity on Caribbean culture. Anexample he gives is the establishmentof a reading program with Barnes andNoble for June’s Caribbean HeritageMonth.

For the past six years, Tropical-fete has been part of the West Indian

American Day Carnival Parade creat-

ing marvelous masquerade presenta-tions.

Furthering his goals he says, “Welook at the development of artists froma holistic view, assisting artists withtheir social needs, for example, we helpthem with workshops in contracts andhow to safeguard their assets .”

The organization sponsors freemusic workshops covering topics suchas copyright and royalties, marketing,mixing and music lessons. They alsooffer mentorship opportunities.

Tropicalfete hosts classes in Brook-lyn for children in dance, stilt walkingand masquerade, and is expandingits program with funding from NYCDepartment of Cultural Affairs.

Next year’s calendar, already includesperformances, dance, readings, a steeldrum program, and carnival costumemaking.

Continuing its mission in culturepreservation and transmission, Tropi-calfete has also worked with VH1 Savethe Music Foundation to highlight thesteel pan instrument, cultural institu-

tions such as the Schomburg C

for Research in Black Culture

has produced cultural perform

at colleges. Alton sums it up, “We are co

ted to the cultivation and advancof emerging artists working

genres including visual arts, fa

music, dance, theater, film and

media. Tropicalfete seeks to utili

power of the artist and arts as it sto bring social changes to who

and wherever needed.”


Alton AimableKp C cl lv h Dp

on Aimable is the Founder and President of Tropi-

fete Inc., a cultural arts organization. Alton was

rn in St. Lucia but feels more a son of the Carib-

an, connected to all the islands when it comes to

ture.

“My dm k C-

cl h -

l lvl wh

wll ccpd wh

dcm .”

am a survivor of domestic vio-e,” she says, “ I know how it feels tooiceless.”

system and process training man-by trade, approximately 12 yearsshe began partnering to make

fference in the lives of unders-d New Yorkers with New Yorks, Junior Achievement and Fresh

Fund through her company’s vol-er program.ore recently — the past sevens — it has been her own extended

Flatbush neighborhood, whereconcentrates most of her energies.e 2008, she has been the secretary

her block association.To bring the change I wanted to” she explains, is her motivation tome active in Community Board

(CB) 17’s Youth Committee, the 67thPrecinct Community Council and itsChristmas Party Team, and in 2010,

the East Flatbush Village Inc. Not InMy Hood Anti-Violence Initiative.

She recently graduated from theCitizens Police Academy and now sheis a member of the East Flatbush COP–Civilian Observation Patrol.

In 2011, she joined the board atEast Flatbush Village, Inc., a youthdevelopment organization that com-bats violence within the community byproviding children with recreationalactivities and educational tools. She

was made chairperson in 2012 andexecutive director in January 2015.

Her community involvement doesnot end there.

In Councilman Jumaane D. Wil-

liams’ District 45, she joined the Par-ticipatory Budgeting (PBNYC) Initia-tive in Cycle 1 (2011-2012), serving forCycle’s 2 & 3 as co-chair.

She says, “PBNYC’s core value tunedinto how partnerships with our electedofficials and government agencies canempower every member of our com-munity including immigrant, indigentand formerly incarcerated neighbors

to spend tax dollars on what mattersto them.”

Alexander-Bakiriddin also ser ves onthe PBNYC Citywide Steering Com-mittee.

“I understand the value of net- working and partnerships,” she says,“which has guided me to be one of thefounding members of Political PowerThrough Organizing (P2O), an organi-zation founded on the premise thatonce a community is organized it

will become a catalyst for posit ivechange.”

The advocate continues her other volunteer work including mentoring

with iMentor. She has partnered with

a mentee since 2014.Summing it up she says,

working on making sure that Igood example for my children anmy community is made better be

I am a part of it.”

Joan Alexander-Bakiriddina dvc h vcl

esident of the 45th District–East Flatbush, Brook-

for 30 years, born in Guyana, Joan Alexander-

kiriddin’s passion is advocacy for her community.

r recent years of tireless involvement reflect this.


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Archer started her company at agenine. The company now grosses almost$500,000 annually while operatingfrom the basement of the family’s Cen-tral Islip home, but in the future will berelocating and expanding.

In Haiti, Archer’s great grandmotherLea Lebon made a natural hair dress-ing using the country’s native plants— hibiscus, avocado, almond and rose-mary oils, shipping vats to the familyin the U.S. Later, while staying with thefamily, her great grandmother sharedthe formula with Leanna.

A seven-year-old Archer gave someof the hair dressing to friends, portionshanded out in baby food jars.

“Checks started coming in the mail.People would stop by asking for $20

worth,” says Archer, who was getting

orders before her parents knew. Thefirst $100 went to get a business license.In 2005 when she was eight, her dad setup a basic website so people could buythe product on-line.

Dad Gregory — now, chief operatingofficer — quit his job to help her runthe company. CEO Archer makes theproduct, packages and fulfills orders.The whole family helps with produc-tion.

In 2008, at age 13, Archer travelled toHaiti for the first time. She was named

Child Ambassador of Haiti by then-President Rene Preval.She says, “I met kids who had never

been to school, who had to take care oftheir family, while I was playing withBarbie dolls. “That year, Archer foundedin Haiti the Leanna Archer EducationFoundation that provides three mealsdaily and an education to nearly 200children. LAEF also focuses on devel-oping each child’s vocational talentsand skills.

Challenged after the earthquake, ittook a year and a half to find the samequality and quantity of essential oils,but Archer is committed to doing busi-ness in Haiti.

Archer began public speaking at age11. She has been a speaker at the BlackEnterprises Teenpreneur conferenceand was a panelist at the “What Makes a

Young Champion” forum in Singapore.Today she is a motivational speaker.

Two to three times-a-month, shespeaks to tweens, teens, and college

students on leadership anneurism, or on business panes about mark-up, profit, rtime and business managem

Meanwhile, Archer is a soStony Brook University studcal Science.

Leanna ArcherMvl pk d p

Leanna Archer is the 20-year-old CEO of Leanna’s

Inc., a hair and body care products company that

carries 14 different items. She was the youngest per-

son – age 13 – to ring the NASDAQ opening bell.

“i m kd [ H] wh

hd v chl,

wh hd k c

h mly, whl i w

plyg wh b dll.”


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s part of long-time involvementthe Caribbean community in the

, Thomas became a member and Secretary of the West Indianrican Day Carnival Association

ADCA). Since 2011, Thomas Baileybeen President of the organization

he proudly says, “is one of thecipal promoters of our Caribbeanure here in North America.”

WIADCA overseas the major eventsted to the five-day Labor Day fes-ies, drawing over a million spec-r and culminating on Labor Day

thousands of imaginatively cos-ed revelers dancing down Eastern

Parkway.“2017 will be our 50th year!” Tho-

mas says. “We are working feverishlyto ensure that 2017, will be all that we

want it to be.”Soon after his 1972 arrival in the

U.S., Thomas became an active mem-ber of the then Afro Caribbean SoccerLeague, one of the first amateur soc-cer leagues to be formed in the New

York Metropolitan Area. The aim ofthe organization was to provide theNew York Caribbean community withorganized competition, especially dur-ing the summer months.

More than 20 years later, by the end

of the 1993 program, the Afro Carib-bean Soccer League became only amemory but a more vibrant organi-zation, the Five Boro Soccer LeagueInc., was formed. Thomas was electedSecretary; five years later he becamePresident.

During his tenure as the chief exec-utive, Thomas successfully led theorganization’s transition from an adult

competitive program to its current youth soccer program.

Thomas Bailey says that strong fam-ily guidance from day one has added tohis connection with community groupsand associations and has inspired himto relate with the “people.”

“It encouraged me to do what wasnecessary to make people happy,” hesays. Over the years, he’s devoted ener-gies to the Boy Scouts, Parent Teach-ers Associations, and various art andcultural organizations.

Addit ionally, he led the Tenants’ Associat ion of the apartment com-plex where he resides and also actively

served on The Winthrop Beacon Advi-

sory Board.Thomas has been married to h

Shirley for the past 43 years antwo children— Michelle and M

and three grandchildren.

Thomas Bailey pd WiaDCa, h hlp pm C cl

ter some years as an Education Officer with the

nistry of Education Culture in Trinidad & Tobago,

omas Bailey migrated to the United States and

und employment with the brokerage firm Merrill

nch Pierce Fenner & Smith for a career that last-

27 years. There he rose to a managerial position,

iring in 1999.

When Archer-Cunningham, a trainedcer, returned to Flatbush, she wasck by the dearth of high-qualityopportunities for residents. “I wasinced that for the community’s

ng people to succeed in life, theyd to develop a strong sense of their

identity,” she says.oth of those goals intersected incommunity arts organization thatfounded, Ifetayo Cultural Arts Acad-

he name of the academy, now overears old, comes from the Yorubad “ifetayo,” which means: love is

ugh for joy. Two years ago, thete House honored the Ifetayo Youthemble with a 2013 National Arts and

manities Youth Program award.

Archer-Cunningham led this organi-zation for more than 25 years. Since1989, under her leadership as CEO,she was able to increase capacity fromone teacher with a minute budget to10 full-time staff members, 33 part-time faculty members and organized a19-member Board of Directors. Morethan 20,000 youth have been servedthrough Ifetayo’s programming.

She personally witnessed the powerof her programming. Through Ifetayo’sprograms and with staff and the Ifetayocommunity, one young severely trau-matized girl was able to heal and now,as a college graduate, has gone on tohelp other girls who have experiencedsimilar trauma.

In 2014, Archer-Cunningham decid-

ed to bring her skills home to Jamaica

and the broader Caribbean region, leav-ing her past organization equipped withan annual multimillion dollar budgetand a steadily growing cash reserve, as

well as nationally recognized programs,management and evaluation systems.

She has raised more than $40 mil-lion in support of local programs,capacity building efforts, and generaloperations. She has designed and ledorganizational development workshopsincluding the U.S. Department of State– Office of International Visitors for theBureau of Education for organizationsfrom 25 countries.

Archer-Cunningham designs pro-grams, conferences and training fornon-profit leaders and communities.Some of the results are heightenedself-awareness and confidence for youthand adults, improved health, increasedfinancial literacy, and academic successbenefiting themselves and their com-munities.

Most notably, she has created aninternationally recognized Rites of Pas-

sage Program for adolescents andlies. A component of the progrdedicated to economic developmunder resourced communities abeing formally evaluated for breplication.

Kwayera Archer-CunninghamLd h wy cl m

wayera Archer-Cunningham is a social venture and

n-profit administrator coach, specializing in socialnsformation and organizational development, phi-

thropy, and social entrepreneurship. She has 35

ars of experience in the arts.


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After graduating high school he workedas a custom clerk and then in the insur-ance industry as an account executive.

He first moved to Canada where heattended college and also completednumerous professional development pro-grams.

After 11 years in the insurance indus-try, Berment began working in the ship-ping business serving the Caribbean com-munity in Canada, the Caribbean and theUnited States, gaining increasing levelsof expertise in marketing, setting up andexpanding operations.

From Canada, he moved to New York,then Florida.

In 2010, Gordon joined EconocaribeShipping as director for development ofbusiness in the Caribbean communityin the U.S. He works with many smaller

shipping agents by providing them with aplatform for growing their business whileserving the community.

Berment’s greatest inspiration is hismother and her undying love, care andsacrificial commitment to family. “She

gave of the little she had and that wasplenty for me. We were poor but hershack and a morsel of food she gave wasa refuge for many who stopped by with aneed,” he said.

During his 23 years serving the Car-ibbean community, Berment has been

involved in several activities giving backto the Caribbean community including,

alumni associations, food for the poor,sporting and community events, educa-tion scholarships, churches and culturalevents.

“We’ve provided free shipping for Haiti,Jamaica, and Guyana relief,” Bermentsays. “And, most recently, support hasgone to Dominica relief with warehousespace, free loading and shipping.”

Beaming, he says, “For 13 years, we have supported The Trevor Wilkins

Calypso Show, the greatest calypsoshow in the world. It’s to preserve theculture and art form.”

“I am most proud,” he says, whileemployed several years back at Laparkanas VP, “having set up the Una ClarkeCaribbean American Scholarship Award

for students of Caribbean hexcelled in their field of stuback to the community.”

“We are now expandingibe’s business opportunities bagents countrywide where thibbean community includingican Republic. We provide a them to develop a shippingthe Caribbean under the umbrella and empower themno franchise cost.”

Berment is married and hlege and high school age chil

Gordon Bermentshpp ddcd hlpg ml-hc cmm

Gordon Berment was born in Trinidad, one among

seven. He describes himself as the son of Indo / Afro

French Creole parents, “I grew up in the midst of var-

ied races, culture and religions.”

bm’ g p h mh d h

dyg lv, c d ccl cmmm

mly. “sh gv h ll h hd d h w

ply m.

‘Good frien' betta dan packet money’Jamaican Proverb

DAVE RODNEY

On Behalf Of Our Caribbean Clients

It Gives Us All At The PM Group Immense Joy To Congratulate You On Being Honored By Caribbean Lif

As A Recipient Of The

2015 Caribbean Life Impact Awards

We Salute DAVE RODNEY

And The Other Recipients Of The 2015 Impact Awards

NOEL MIGNOTT & ALISON ROSS

THE PORTFOLIO MARKETING GROUP, MANHATTAN, NEW YORK

www.pmgroup.bz

british caribbean


10/28


he has brought investments ining, housing, waste managementeducation to the region.he was consul general for Jamaica in

w York between 2008 and 2012. Sheserved on the USAID / Migration

cy Institute Think Tank on diasporaing to the inaugural U.S. Stateartment Global Diaspora Forum

Washington (2011) spearheaded byn Secretary of State Clinton.

When asked who has most inspiredshe acknowledges former Secre-of State Henry Kissinger. “Henry

inger redefined the role of Secre-of State,” she says, “and gave it theificance it enjoys today as playing arole in U.S. foreign relations. Kiss-r went on to be a major player inChina relations on the investment

and trade side. His leadership inspiredme in my work as the Jamaican ConsulGeneral in New York, and he continuesto inspire me in my role as an analyst.”

She writes frequently on diaspora

and technology in development, includ-ing for the U.S. State Department

website and the Science & Diplomacy

Journal. She contributed to the book“Diasporas: New Partners in Global

Diaspora Strategy,” published by theMigration Policy Institute.Brown Metzger’s public relations

agency was acquired by the worldwideagency, Ruder Finn, in 1991 where sheestablished and headed the EmergingMarkets division. Her clients includedRhodes University in South Africa andthe University of the West Indies–set-ting up the American Foundation forthe University of the West Indies.

She is proud to be a founding mem-ber of the Caribbean American Cham-ber of Commerce and Industry (CACCI),commenting, “Under the leadership ofDr. Roy Hastick, CACCI has gone on tobecome a national organization and animportant resource in the communityfor entrepreneurs.”

She is the international chair of theCaribbean Maritime Institute based inJamaica and president of the Ameri-can Caribbean Maritime Foundationbased in New York. She also createdthe Caribbean online information hub,

DiasporaDashboard.com, and the popular Caribbean public intalk show on WVIP, “DiplomaSpeaking.”

Brown Metzger is also proud work as director in charge of thibbean at Monroe College helpindents from the Caribbean get scships. “I get to help change the lmany students each year,” she sa

She is married to econStephen Metzger, PhD., and thetwo grown daughters.

Geneive Brown Metzgerdvc h Dp d vm h C

Geneive Brown Metzger is an investment / trade

d economic development analyst, the “go to”ource for industry leaders and prospective inves-

s in the Caribbean.

“Hy Kg d-

d h l scy

s... H ldhp

pd m my wk

h Jmc Cl

Gl nw Yk, d

h c p m

my l ly.”


ryan started with GraceKennedy995 as product manager and was

moted in 1998 to market managerhe Northern Caribbean and Latinrica — 22 countries — where heed sales within two years.e became international marketingager for the Northern USA Region000 and business in the region

w significantly.’m particularly proud in help-build the Company’s distributionnd the cultural borders of the Car-an to embrace the Latino Hispanicmainstream USA markets,” saysbi-lingual executive who speaks a

nt Spanish in addition to English.e network has expanded from all footprint in ethnic stores to a

credible respected national brand.”For seven years, as regional busi-

ness manager for GraceKennedy USA,he developed a track record of consist-ently opening and developing interna-tional markets.

In 2012, he received The UWI ViceChancellor’s Award for “OutstandingCommunity Leader and Rising Star,”an award for Caribbean heritage per-sons recognized as being on the cut-ting edge of their profession. Bryanreceived this award for being on “theforefront of his company’s success ingrowing the USA.”

Ricardo relocated to Canada in 2013and as vice president sales and mar-keting for GraceKennedy, Ontario Inc,

he led the restructuring of the sales

organization during his two-year ten-ure.

“My mother, a single mom after myfather died, was my greatest inspira-tion,” he says. “She demonstrated theimportance of hard work and beingauthentic.”

An active member in the Churchof God of Prophecy, Bryan is heavilyinvolved in their community outreach

programs. He is the church’s musicdirector and a leader of the Men’s Min-istries for the Brooklyn District,N.Y.

Also, as a mentor for teenagers and young adults, he remembers the men— his pastor and the principal of hishigh school — who took an interest inhim growing up.

“Children in the Diaspora need posi-tive role models from people of Carib-bean descent to help confirm theiridentity,” he says. “Seeing people inleadership roles from their backgroundcan inspire them.”

Consistent with his passion for mak-ing an impact through media, Bryan is

the creator, producer and host of the

weekly four-hour radio show — bean Gospel Flavas (Flavors) air1190 WLIB throughout the trarea. “I am the only Caribbean h

WLIB,” he says.

Ricardo BryanC l mdl d cmmy ld

maican-born, raised and educated, Ricardo

yan is an international business executive with

aceKennedy Ltd., the Caribbean’s leading distrib-

or of food and non-food consumer products. He is

nior vice president, GraceKennedy, Foods USA.


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Her passion for promotion start-ed early. As a teen, this British-bornJamaican-raised newcomer to the U.S.started with a partner her first business— a promotion company.

Her ardor for marketing and promo-tion grew and she studied business atBaruch and events and marketing atNYU.

After several years working withadvertising powerhouses, she left cor-porate America in 2003, to open herown marketing events and promotioncompany — BullZii Marketing, LLC.This firm creates and executes market-ing, publicity, advertising, media andpromotion campaigns particularly fora long-list of Caribbean-based compa-nies, wishing to promote their productsand services in North America.

BullZii is now certified by New York

City and New York State as a Minorityand Women Owned Business Enterprise(MWBE) and is eligible to bid on cityand state contracts.

Bullens has been an integral part ofseveral major cultural initiatives. Since2011, she has been a co-producer andmarketing executive for the Queens“Groovin’ In The Park,” an annual reg-

gae, pop, and r&b concert, the largestoutdoor concert in Queens. In 2015,more than 22,000 were grooving.

“I also work with the Grace Foods’sponsorship of the Penn Relays at theUniversity of Pennsylvania in Philadel-

phia, the largest field event outside of

the world championships,” she says.Grace Foods began to sponsor youngJamaican athletes’ travel, food andother expenses, so they could attendPenn Relays.

This year there were 600 competi-tors from the Caribbean, mostly Jamai-cans. Grace Foods evolved to beinga corporate sponsor, the only Carib-bean company, of the event. “This isa great opportunity for the Caribbean

young athletes,” says Andrea. “Collegescouts are on the look-out. Fans from

across the country hold up high thegreen, gold and black (Jamaican) flag.”The three-day weekend event attracts120,000 track enthusiasts.

Andrea also co-founded and co-pro-duced the one-hour Caribbean Life-

style TV, covering social aissues, cultural, business anity events, on CIN + NYchannels in the New York athe U.S. Virgin Islands from2011.

On the non-profit side, sher corporate connections sponsorship for non-profitFriends of Mustard Seed Ois especially dear to her hea

“My mom was a woman determination, passion anshe says of one of her main i“She was my first role mode

Andrea BullensC w , phlhpy

It is no easy task to marry business and philanthro-

py but Andrea Bullens is successful in creating thisunion.

“My mm w wm gh, dm,

p d dgy,” h y h m -

p. “sh w my l mdl.”

Warmest Congratulations from Ernest J. Baptiste, Executive Director &

The Kings County Hospital Family to Caribbean Life Impact Awards

Distinguished Honorees

Terrence LaPierre

Member, KCHC Community Advisory Board

Pastor Gilford Monrose

Member, KCHC Behavioral Health Advisory Board


12/28


larke has honed a very nature-ired aesthetic, which complimentsevolving yet eclectic sensibility.s a Brooklyn resident, but Jamai-at heart, heavily influenced by ae-not upbringing in Jamaica. Ef fi-cy and creating “efficiently beauti-spaces is an important part of hergn for her residential and hospital-lients.ong with her business partnerBascom, Anishka has built Ishka

gns where she is the CEO and leadgner working across continents.

has been published in various

media, most recently listed as a “NextBig Name” by lifestyle and home decorLonny Magazine.

In early 2014, Clarke completed theGoldman Sachs / Tory Burch Founda-tion 10,000 Small Business program.In 2013, she was recognized by theCaribbean publication, Where Itz Atin their first BIG awards for entre-preneurial leadership in the area ofdesign.

Clarke is an interior design honorsgraduate (Summa Cum Laude) of theFashion Institute of Technology, holdsan MBA from Stern Business School,

New York University, and graduated with honors from the University of

the West Indies with a BSc. Degree in Accounting and Economics. A formermodern dancer, she now happily prac-tices yoga.

She cites many for inspiration.Journalist Malcolm Gladwell’s booksopened her eyes with his definition ofsuccess, allowing her to measure herown in a more holistic way.

Paolo Coelho’s novel “The Alche-mist” strengthened her beliefs in herown long-term goals and doing whatshe was meant to do.

Clarke says that over the past few years, “I have surrounded myself withlikeminded design entrepreneurs, nowfriends, that have given me the focusand motivation at times to not onlydeliver but to stretch far beyond myreach.”

She is currently working on a luxuryeco-conscious residential and hospi-tality project in Jamaica including asolar panel installation and rainwatercatchment.

She says, “In the beautiful bean, persons are becoming morcious of their environmental imIshka Designs is pleased to be a pa project focused on the environOur overarching goal is to dsimilarly stunning luxury eco-rthroughout the Caribbean.”

Anishka Clarke wd-wg dg c cly l pc

ving worked a decade in finance, both in Jamaica

d on Wall Street, Anishka Clarke left the financialustry in early 2006 to pursue her real passion,

erior design. She has been listed as a Top 20 Afri-

n-American Interior Designer for four consecutive

ars and has cemented her corner of the design

rket after eight years in the industry.


abrina comes from a modeling back-nd, but it was Elijah’s concept to

a beauty pageant for Caribbeanmen, an idea he had when they askedmselves: How can we get people morelved with their heritage?

The Ms. Caribbean Gemz Pageantesigned for women of West Indianent, living in the United States, ands them a chance to represent theirure and be introduced to other oppor-ties,” says Clinton. “For women, weoduce fashion and beauty care. Some

women do it for confidence building. It’salso a way to be introduced to the fashion

world.”Their queens — last year’s from Barba-

dos, this year’s of Puerto Rican heritage— rode on the lead float in the CaribbeanDay Parade.

“This year’s queen, Katherin Jennings was chosen because the judges felt herconfidence. “Her personality really stoodout and she was the more articulate,”said Clinton. She and the first runner upspoke at a Breast Cancer event. The queen

spoke at other charity events such as theBrooklyn Cinderella Program.

The eight competing young women,ages 21-35 came from Trinidad and Toba-go, Barbados, St. Kitts & Nevis, PuertoRico, Guyana and Jamaica, this year.One aspect of the three-part competi-

tion is when they wear a cultural outfitthey have made or put together to depicttheir island’s culture or heritage. They

write a description and give a heritagebackground.

The two agree that, “We want to help women get further in fashion, modelingand gain the experience needed to obtaintheir goals.”

As for inspiration, “A few close friendsthat have companies of their own, mak-ing differences in their unique ways,inspire us,” says Knight.

He adds, “We are proud of our Ms. Car-ibbean Gemz Beauty Pageant in which

we inspire Caribbean women to reach

for more than just the norm. We have

made an impact on these women ing opportunities that they though

just dreams.”Knight emphasizes that the w

have opportunities for interviews, fshows and socializing in elegant sein addition to their attendance at cand fundraiser events and hosting

readings for children.

Sabrina Clinton& Elijah Knightthy hlp yg wm dvlp l cdc

brina Clinton along with Elijah Knight founded

ribbean Gemz in September 2013, an organiza-

n which strives to bring new facets to Caribbean

ture including fashion, health awareness and

auty care. The two are life and business partners,

th of Barbadian heritage, and are referred to ine fashion world as the “power couple.”


13/28



The Grace Kennedy Grouprecognizes and congratulates our colleag

Ricardo Bryan on receiving the Caribbean LifeImpact Award 2015.

We are proud of your contributions t

the Group and the community.

David worked for eight years at theNew York City Economic DevelopmentCorporation (NYCEDC), most recentlyas a vice president. In this capacity, hemanaged billions of dollars that wereinvested in global and local institu-tions that directly improved the qual-ity of life for residents across the fiveboroughs.

One example is the modernizationof the buildings at Bedford StuyvesantRestoration Corporation, an enginefor community development in Cen-tral Brooklyn. His work at NYCEDCdirectly impacted New Yorkers from all

walks of life , touching many neighbor-hoods. Its programs provide vital serv-

ices such as feeding the hungry, after-school programs and cultural access.

David also co-founded the Indo-Car-ibbean Alliance, an organization thatprovides direct services and advocacy.In its five years, it has become the larg-est Caribbean organization in Queens.The organization nurtures the com-munity. It educates and mobilizes new

voters. It helps students with after-school tutoring,mentoring, SAT examsprep and informs them about collegeaccess programs. It provides students

with opportunities to develop leader-ship skills and become involved withcommunity service.

“One of the Alliance’s proudest

accomplishments is the creation ofan Indo-Caribbean Special Collection

of literature and media in partner-ship with Queens Library,” he says.“Today, the collection has hundreds ofmaterials that are enabling students,researchers and residents to develop agreater understanding of the historyand identity of the Indo-Caribbeancommunity.”

At age 29, David is also one ofthe youngest members of CommunityBoard 9 where he has served for morethan seven years.

He is involved in several organ-izations and events across the cityand regularly conducts workshops toorganize people to get involved in theirown communities.

On the professional side, he is proudof being able to help many nonprofitorganizations build facilities — senior,health, and community centers andcultural spaces — so they can providehuman services to their clients.

A Hunter College graduate, he has aMaster’s in Public Administration from

New York University.For a current project he

working to launch a citywprogram to save employerers on the cost of public tion.”

Richard Davida dvc cmmy dvlpm

Richard David was born in a rural village in Guyana,

the youngest of three brothers, and came to the

United States at the age of 10. He is successful in his

professional career while being deeply engaged with

his immediate New York community as well as the

Indo-Caribbean community.


14/28


s president and CEO of the Carib-n American Chamber of Commerce

Industry, Inc. (CACCI), for 30s, Hastick has helped put in placeucture that serves the small busi-community. CACCI assists peoplewant to start and grow their ownnesses in a climate of unity amongrse cultures.ecades back in Brooklyn, throughinvolvement with Community

rd #9, Hastick recognized the needhe Caribbean community to unifyorces to improve the quality of

ater, he was introduced to otherials through his volunteering withocal Councilman Ted Silverman.ting those active in the commu-enriched the ground from which

CACCI would eventually grow.Hastick started his own “West Indi-

an Tribune” moving it to downtownBrooklyn. It became the newspaper ofthe Caribbean American Chamber ofCommerce and Industry, the organi-zation he formed to provide businessnetworking and business developmentseminars.

After one year, in 1985, the organi-zation became formalized with a struc-ture and board of 10. CACCI — now

with a membership of more than 1,700— sponsors workshops, seminars andbusiness breakfasts.

CACCI’s training includes businessplanning, certification preparation,financing, procurement opportunities,financial literacy, job development,and export / import opportunities.

It has also always been Hastick’sdream to develop a Caribbean Ameri-

can Trade and Culture Center to sup-port these local Caribbean ownedbusinesses and help facilitate com-merce with the islands.

Last month, it was announcedthat the Flatbush Caton Market —managed by CACCI — that housesmore than 40 micro-vendors will betransformed into a mixed-use project.Projected to open in three years, anexpanded renovated market, a newspace for the (CACCI), classrooms anda commercial kitchen will be at thatsite as well as 166 low income residen-tial units.

“This development is a major accom-plishment for the Caribbean-Americancommunity,” says Hastick.

“In addition to affordable housing,there will be a place for micro-enter-prises — those starting from scratch.It will be a place for emerging busi-nesses that want to find a partner andlink with businesses in the Caribbean,and it will be a Brooklyn facility where

Caribbeans can access resourcesCaribbean governments and

won’t have to travel to Manhaexplains the CEO.

Af ter decades of work, Ha vision is coming to fruition.

Roy A. Hastick, Sr.sv nw Yk’ cmmy

rn in Grenada, West Indies, Dr. Roy A. Hastick, Sr.

grated to the United States in 1972 and worked for

veral years as an administrator, community advo-

te, entrepreneur and newspaper publisher.


CONGRATULATIONS

GORDON A. BERMENTON BEING HORNORED WITH

THE CARIBBEAN LIFE

IMPACT AWARDS

From the management and staff of

ECONOCARIBEWe ship worldwide • 718.244.7447

r continued effort in serving our customers and the wider Caribbean Community over

he years is a testament to you and our commitment to our community since 1968.

e value and appreciate all you have done and will continue to support those effort to

uplift and promote betterment for our Caribbean community.

CongratulationsEntrepreneur, Community Activist &

Caribbean person of distinction

Edgar Henry Executive Board Member of The Guyana Cultural

Association of New York, Inc. & Cultural Enabler

FROM THE BOARD & MEMBERS OF

THE GUYANA CULTURAL ASSOCIATION

OF NEW YORK, INC.


15/28



In 1988, he started his home-basedDennis Shipping Company. Today, 27

years later, the company has transcend-ed its simple beginnings emerging asone of the leaders among Caribbean-owned businesses in New York andFlorida as well as Jamaica. The New

York locations are on Utica Ave. inBrooklyn and White Plains Road in theBronx.

And, guided by its “Committed toExcellence” motto, Dennis Shippinghas earned a reputation in providingsafe, reliable and quality shipping serv-ices to the Caribbean.

Furthermore, Hawthorne remainscommitted to the communities where

his company serves. “Success is notonly the result of hard work, but thesupport from those communities,” hesays.

“It is this unwavering support thathas preserved my business even in chal-lenging economic times,” said Haw-thorne. Dennis Shipping is dedicated togiving back.

“I am dedicated to outreach programsthat are local, national and internation-al in scope,” Dennis says. His companyhas supported programs such as theEast Flatbush Friends Education, Car-ibbean American Outreach Association,Children Outreach of Jamaica, KingsHighway Development Project, many

local churches, senior, civic organiza-tions, and schools.

His unwavering commitment tonation building is evidenced by manyother various endeavors he supportsthat span the areas of education, health,sports, and the environment.

He has partnered with organiza-tions such as the American Foundationof The University of the West Indies(A.F.U.W.I), Negril Education and Envi-ronmental Trust (N.E.E.ET) in provid-ing scholarships and funding for theirdifferent initiatives.

In addition to Dennis Shipping’s con-tribution to the growth and develop-ment of both the Caribbean Diasporaand the Caribbean region, the com-pany has donated shipping services fornatural disaster relief and medical andreconstruction equipment to Grenada,St. Lucia, Dominica, Antigua, Jamaicaand Haiti.

Hawthorne is well known within hisEast Flatbush community. He firmlybelieves: It is not the amount of moneyor the level of education that makes

you successful, but ratherthat benefit, beyond your ffriends, as a result of your ments.

Among the many awarding Hawthorne’s contributimunity, he has received ‘ThGeneral of Jamaica Award foing Benevolent Services to JCaribbean Communities” ‘The Congressional Record A

Dennis HawthorneCmmd h cmm h cmpy v

Dennis Hawthorne is a native of Jamaica, born in

rural Grange Hill, Westmoreland. He migrated to

Brooklyn in 1985; his first entrepreneurial and artistic

endeavor was a successful photography business.

However, he decided to focus his energies on the

business of shipping.

CongratulationsGeneive Brown Metzger, LLD Hon.

On Receiving

2015 Caribbean Life Impact Award

With All Best Wishes

James and Alexander GorenOf

Holland Estates, Trelawny, Jamaica

Jamaica’s First University Town

Offering 2 & 3 Bedroom Homes

www.hollandestatesjamaica.com

Sales Office: 876-960-7726 & 876-960-6218


16/28


17/28



She had an early successful careeras a computer system analyst and laterplant IT manager at Proctor & Gamble,earned an MBA, has a family with twosons but it was not enough.

Hurd-Runcie felt the need and theurgency to fulfill her lifelong dreamof becoming an entrepreneur. Afterresearch, she decided to become a partof the Golden Krust Caribbean Bakeryand Grill franchise.

With the full support of her husband,in February 2005, she left Procter &Gamble to open her Golden Krust fran-chise in Queens Village, incorporatingher business skills with her drive andher motivation for success.

Then, along with her husband, sheopened Pa-Nash Restaurant & Loungein November 2013, an upscale restau-rant serving a unique fusion cuisine.

It was no easy task to open, tak-ing three years due to various build-ing department bureaucratic obstacles.Finally, Annette brought to SoutheastQueens the style of Manhattan serv-ing a mouth watering Mediterranean

and Moroccan cuisine with Caribbeanand soul food influences that she calls“EuroSoul.”

Her inspiration to open a restaurantdates way back, “Ever since I was a childit’s been discussed at our dinner tableabout one day having a family restau-rant,” she said.

The restaurant has received manyawards, including a “1st Place” for com-

mercial design from the Queens Cham-ber of Commerce.“My dad passed away last November

but I am happy that I was able to fulfillthe family legacy before his passing,”she says, adding, “fulfilling this legacy

while keeping my family unit together.It’s tough balancing business, being a

wife, and a mom.” Additionally, Hurd-Runcie reaches

out to her community. She organizesfree yearly health fairs where residentsof Queens Village can get free consulta-tions. During the holiday season, shedonates food daily to the City Harvestprogram to feed the homeless.

On the Jamaica side, she sponsorstwo primary school children who attend

the same primary school attended in Jamaica.

Also, Hurd-Runcie foundander Youth Etiquette Succcommunity organization, provide etiquette education aes for youths in the commu

“I still plan to get a PhD so I can become a busineand use my skills toward ment of my people and cshe says.

Annette M. Hurd-Runciea p wh d h hgy

Annette M. Hurd-Runcie was born in Kingston,

Jamaica in a large family of seven, emigrating with

her family at the age of 11.

“i ll pl g PhD , i c cm

p d my kll wd h

m my ppl d cmmy.”

CounCil MeMber JuMaane WilliaMs congratulates

PASTOR GILFORD MONROSE

on receiving the

Caribbean Life Impact Award 2015

Pt Gfd M ddctd d

hd wkg dvd.

KEEP UP THE GOOD WORK!


18/28



A Broadway worthy performance,as our first big production!” she

udly proclaims. “We showcasedstudents, 20 senior citizen mem-and 20- 30 of our AbunDance

. We attracted an audience of 400,50 volunteers from the Brooklynmunity.”arisma Jay’s life is in dance andhas been dancing and performinge the age of two.he studied at the Dance Theatre ofem, the Junior Division of Ailey

ool, High School of the Performingand also studied Performing Arts

Pre-Med at NYU.

In addition to performing with anumber of prestigious dance com-panies such as Brooklyn Ballet andRonald K. Brown’s Evidence, Karismaperformed with the national touringcompany of STOMP, the longest-run-ning Off Broadway musical, during the2013-2015 seasons.

Professionally, Karisma has also worked in television and has done voice overs for commercials.

Meanwhile, Karisma honed herskills working with children to developthe confidence of even the shyest and

youngest of students. She has taughtdance since the age of 11.

At AbunDance, students of all eth-nicities, from ages three through

adults, study many dance formsincluding ballet, African, tap and jazz,theatre arts, specialty performing artsand fitness.

“Our performance of The Wiz turnedinto a testimony to the power of Abun-Dance, experiencing the ‘Dance’ inabundance,” she said.

“Coming up are winter and springdance company performances, acting

workshops, our annual winter galafundraiser and of our annual Junedance concert, “ she says.

Karisma is also competing in the6th Annual Stars of New York Dancecompetition, partnering with Rev.David Brawley of St. Paul CommunityChurch. “We’ll be raising scholarshipfunds for select AbunDance students,”she adds.

Karisma’s inspiration is her mom.“Everything that I am is because sheinvested in me and continues to do so.She supports my passion for the arts.She never allows me to limit myself

creatively, academically, or persoShe implanted in me all the life need to draw upon in her stead.”

Karisma was born in the U.Smom and family are from Pa

with lineage from Barbados, Jaand England.

Karisma Jaya p chg h

risma Jay is the Artistic Director and Founder of

e AbunDance Academy located in the heart of

ooklyn. For their first End of Year Dance Produc-

n, this past June, AbunDance Academy present-

The Wiz – this version written, directed, and nar-

ed by Karisma who added exciting new flavors to

e classic.

Ronald G. Weiner, President, JCRC-NY

Rabbi Michael Miller Executive Vice President and CEO, JCRC-NY

Rabbi Bob Kaplan, Director Center for ,Community Leadership at JCRC-NY

The Jewish Community

Relations Council of NY

and its Center for

Community Leadership

applauds

Reverend Gilford Monrose ,

a leader who exemplifies

caring and vision, on his

receiving the

Caribbean Life Impact

Award 2015 .

Noreen Hurd congratulates

ANNETTE RUNCIEof Panash Restaurant

ON RECEIVING THE

CARIBBEAN LIFE IMPACT AWARD 2015

You are an inspiration.

Well done!

Where the Caribbean Imagination Embraces the World

The Caribbean Writer Magazine congratulates Tiphanie Yaniquon receiving the Caribbean Life Impact Award. We are proud of you

The Caribbean Writer • University of the Virgin IslandsRR 1, Box 10,000 • Kingshill, St. Croix USVI 00850 • (340) 692-4152


19/28



He is a licensed insurance broker, apublic accountant (Brooklyn Collegeand College of Insurance, degree inaccounting), a New York notary and isthe owner of Patriot Agency on AvenueD.

“My friend and ex-policeman Selbyencouraged me to pursue the insur-ance business,” he says. “But I wantedto do more, so I became a tax preparer

/ consultant. Then I became a ‘one stopshop.’ I wanted to offer everything tomy community.”

LaPierre’s multi-service businessservices the New York, Florida and theConnecticut areas and offers WesternUnion, money orders and bill payments.His office prepares personal and busi-ness taxes, immigration services, andall types of insurances — commercial,homeowner, workers compensation anddisability.

He takes particular satisfaction in his work. “I am proud of helping my com-munity in their daily lives. I have had asuccessful business for the past 30 years

where one and all can come in to getinformation and service on many needs

and concerns.” Additionally, LaPierre is very involved

with his community. He is the presidentof the Avenue D Merchants Association.

With the help of other business owners,the association illuminates Avenue Dand Utica Avenue with Christmas lightscreating a very festive Avenue D busi-

ness strip.He is also second vice-president of

Community Board 17. He says, “AsChair for CB17 Committee for Sanita-tion and DEP I am working on qual-ity of life issues — particularly for acleaner community such as garbagecollection and snow removal.”

Concerned about violence in theneighborhood, LaPierre is a memberof the 67th Precint Committee, attend-

ing meetings with the precinct, theborough president and district electedofficials about the use of guns.

He explains, “The commissioner ofpolice instituted a new program called67 Precint NCO. We meet with officersassigned to different community sectorsbringing in residents and youth in order

to have a better relationshthe community and the pol

He has also been appoiBrooklyn District Attorneyand Research Committee, tService System Board of the has been on the Commsory Board to Kings Counfor three years.

The recipient of severalty service awards, LaPierreceived two awards from tand Tobago Police Servicciation for distinguished secitizens of Trinidad and Tob

Terrence Theophilus LaPierreDdcd cmmy vc

Terrence Theophilus LaPierre is a son of Trinidad and

Tobago. He came to the United States in 1969, leav-

ing the Trinidad and Tobago Police Force.

“i m pd hlpg my cmmy h dly

lv. i hv hd ccl h p 30

y wh d ll c cm g m-

d vc my d d cc.”

THE WILDLIFE CONSERVATION SOCIE

Congratulates one of its own NICOLE ROBINSON-ETIENNE,

Assistant Director, Government & Community Affa

at the NEW YORK AQUARIUM,

as a recipient of the2015 CARIBBEAN LIFE IMPACT AWARD


20/28

0 Caribbean Life, November 13—19, 2015 BQ


e grew up in Dangriga, Belize,ly rooted in his Garifuna heritage.he Garifuna are an indigenousp born of the mixing of Africansho were never enslaved — with the

ve Carib and Arawak peoples of thebbean on the island of St. Vincent.

n 1795, they were condemned tosh on the island of Roatán, Hondu-but rather than perish, they settledg the coastline of Central America

Honduras, then Belize, later Guate-a and Nicaragua. Their thriving cul-is under threat as young Garifuna

rate primarily to major U.S. cities.nspired by Garifuna artist, “Pen”

tano, Lovell decided to pursue aic career, immigrating to the Unit-

ed States where he earned a bach-elor’s degree in African Studies with aminor in music. In 1994, he co-foundedthe performing arts company Illagulei(Roots), created to preserve and pro-mote Garifuna culture. Since 1995, hehas released four albums and experi-mented with combining African andGarifuna music resulting in a genrehe coined as Afri-Garifuna Rhythms,

which forms the foundation of his Afri-Garifuna Jazz Ensemble.

Lovell has also developed a method ofteaching the Garifuna language, histo-ry, dance, and customs through songs.The program, which includes, histo-ry, drumming and music theory, wasimplemented under UNESCO and the

National Garifuna Council. In 2005 and2008, he facilitated dance and music

workshops in his hometown Dangriga.Using his teaching methods in New York, Lovell directed the Afrigarifuna Youth Ensemble for children ages six-14.

In 2013, he was a featured artist atthe Smithsonian Folklife Festival.

Lovell reintroduced the Garifunaculture back to its roots in St. Vincentand the Grenadines leading childrenand young adults in a cultural andretrieval program called Yugacure. Healso teaches an annual Garifuna nurs-ery rhyme workshop in Belize.

As part of his endeavors to highlightlanguage preservation of endangeredcultures worldwide, he is currently col-laborating with the Breton people ofFrance.

And most recently, this culture activ-ist has worked on projects with the D.C.-based organization Sustainable Devel-opment and Climate Change (SUDECC)using his artistic skills and pedagogicalendeavors to safeguard Garifuna music,

dance and language.Lovell is employed by the New

Board of Education, where he with severely emotionally chalelementary and high school stude

James LovellG cll md d dc

mes Lovell is a cultural ambassador who preserves

ditional Garifuna music, dance and language,

aring it with audiences around the world. He is

passionate educator, activist, a storyteller and a

lti-instrumentalist — including percussion, guitars,

ce, clarinet, sax and euphonium.

always had been a lifelong dreamis to serve the church, especiallyyouth. In part, he began by devel-g programs for young people ash director, for the now histor ic

Zion Church of God (Seventh Day)E. 37th St. He is still there and

it “a small church with a bigt.”astor Monrose understands youthggles and works tirelessly withhs to enhance their spir itua l

urity. In 2005, he was ordained.he four walls of a church do notain Pastor Monrose’s extensivelvement. Serving locally andnd, he creates and partners withy organizations.

n 2002, he established the CatchVision (CTV) Youth Conferenc-

which empowers young people,ers, and marriages and attracts

youth and adults alike from aroundthe world. At Kingsbrook Jewish Medi-cal Center, he initiated the Unity Gos-pel Fest to bring together spiritualand physical wellness. Pastor Monrose

helped develop and serves as Team

Leader for the East Flatbush Ready When the Time Comes Disaster Team,a disaster-relief American Red Crosstraining to volunteer teams from localcommunity groups.

Beyond a physical church, he is achaplain for the Metropolitan Trans-portation Authority, serves as director

of the Faith Based and Clergy Initiative

at the Brooklyn Borough President’sOffice, serves as a board member forthe Flatbush YMCA, and he is on the

Advisory Board for Boys Town.He chairs the Community Leader-

ship Council of the Kingsbrook JewishMedical Center.

In the social justice and community world, he is an alumni chair for We Are All Brooklyn, which brings diverse

leaders together to solve quality of life

issue. He has served on many CB #17 Advisory Boards.

As inspirat ion, Pastor Monrose says,“Rabbi Bob Kaplan, he is a mentor thegreatest sense. He has shown me howto partner and collaborate with diversegroups, using our compassion andlove for community renewal to move

our community forward.”

Pastor Monrose’s most cuproject is the GodSquad. He founding president of the 67thcinct Clergy Council–liaisons bepolice and the community. He rates, “We are a group of presponding to gangs and workreduce crime and gun violence intral Brooklyn, the heart of the bean community.”

His Facebook/Twitter handlepastormonrose. He also has an

gration helpline.

Pastor Gilford T. MonroseCmmd vg yh

ford T. Monrose is a native of the U.S. Virgin

ands. He moved to New York to study theology

d marry the “love of his life” Dianne Thomas.

“W gp p pdg gg d

wkg dc cm d g vlc Cl

bkly, h h h C cmmy.”


21/28



Her parents separated and as a sin-gle parent, her mother built a solidfoundation by clothing and educatingher eight children.

From an early age, Newton learnedthe importance of a good education,

which continues to be a driving va lue.She excelled in school, was the valedic-torian and the family moved to the U.S.so she could advance her education.

Newton’s instinct to protect hercommunity led to her joining thepolice force in 1984, where she foundher core. She advanced through theranks — patrol, special assignment,and finally detective with NYPD.

At John Jay she earned an AssociateDegree in Political Science, a B.S. inBusiness Administration and a Mas-ters Degree in Public Administration.She also earned a Masters Degree inPhilosophy from Cardiff University in

Wales and is pursuing a PhD in Lead-

ership and Supervision in Educationat the American International College,Springfield, Massachusetts.

Newton serves as a mentor andinstructor by assisting school age chil-dren with English, mathematics, glo-bal studies, life skills, and helps pro-

vide educational field experiences at a weekly program operated by The Bar-badian Ex-Police Association in CrownHeights, Brooklyn, N.Y.

In Barbados, she assists in coordi-nating a school mentoring, breakfast,summer and after-school program atSt. Ambrose Anglican Church School.

Newton is also very involved with

Cape Town, South Africa. There, she isa big sister to and mentors three chil-

dren providing for their tuition andfuture education as well as mentoringand financially assisting youth leadersfrom Monument Park High School.She also performed community serviceat a YMCA and Pollsmoor Prison.

For decades, she has volunteeredat a Brooklyn soup kitchen and is the

volunteer coordinator for annual local

holiday dinner and toy distributionevents.

Newton is a member of CommunityBoard 18, is active at the 63rd PrecinctCommunity Council meetings, and isthe recipient of several awards.

She retired from the NYPD in 2012and continues to work in the com-munity.

With her husband, Ricretired assistant commissthe New York City Departmbation, she has establishedton Foundation to expand table work.

Newton has also emba

research proposal for a PhDtional Leadership and Supedevelopmental criminologyexamine elementary age chhave precursors to feloniou

She hopes that the stuincorporated into educatiolum systems.

Judy D. NewtonCmmy dvc d m

Judy D. Newton was born in an obscure village called

Coach Hill, in Barbados, the fifth of eight children.

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The Hyman, Alexander, Bakiriddin, Semple, Corte, Buckmire, Stewart,

Hayes, Bremner, Grist, Woodland and Joseph families salute

Joan Alexander-Bakiriddin

and the other

2015 IMPACT AWARDS HONOREES

We salute

Dr. Roy Hastick and the other

Honorees of the 2015 Impact Award

299 Utica Avenue, Brooklyn, NY 11213

Tel: 718-773-8266

Specializing in custom cakes for B

Weddings and all Special Occ


22/28



obinson-Etienne is the assistantctor of Government and Communi-

ffairs at the Wildlife Conservationety’s (WCS) New York AquariumProspect Park Zoo in Brooklyn.liaises with state and city electedials, government agencies, com-

nity boards, the amusement indus-and community stakeholders.he also has been actively engaged

the newly formed Alliance forey Island and the ConeyRecoverspaign that mobilized efforts tot local residents in the aftermath

uperstorm Sandy.reviously, Robinson-Etienne wasmmigration attorney in a small lawtice working on asylum and familyication cases.

She later went on to work as specialcounsel to Assemblywoman Rhoda S.

Jacobs, for more than eight years help-ing constituents expedite and resolveproblems relating to the delivery ofsocial services. She assisted clients

with immigration related concerns,developed a summer resource guide forparents and managed special eventsincluding health fairs, job fairs, edu-cational workshops, and an annualluncheon for senior citizens.

These skills came in handy whenshe transitioned to work in ConeyIsland where she engaged residentsand stakeholders in dialogue aroundthe issue of the Strategic Plan forConey Island.

About her current work she says,

“I am proud of my efforts to connect

children to nature by providing accessto the New York Aquarium through

our community access and education

outreach programs.”

“Growing up in the Caribbean, you

are surrounded by water,” she says,

“and have a seamless connection to

the natural world around you. New

York City is a city of islands and alsosurrounded by water but our children

don’t have that same connection.”

With delight she describes the first

exhibit at the NY Aquarium: a replica-

tion of Glovers Reef, a coral reef sys-

tem located in Belize, home to marinecreatures — eels, Atlantic rays, French

angels and Cuban hogfish.

She says, “It’s that first moment of

awe that you see in a child’s eye when

they visit the aquarium that inspires

me to want children of all ages, but

especially urban children of Carib-bean descent to have that same expe-

rience.”

Nicole also spends her freementoring young women and vteers as a leader and coordinatorGirl Scout troops at PS 276 in C

sie, Brooklyn.

Nicole Robinson-EtienneLv ccg chld

was born and raised in Brooklyn but my fam-

is from St. Vincent, W.I.,” says Nicole Robinson

ienne whose work is pleasantly unusual, particu-

y for someone with a B.A. in Political Science and

ban Studies and a law degree.

is his parents, who worked so hardserve as an inspiration for Reyes

o the same.Today as a father of four,” he says,m passionate about my work andcommunities I work with. I hopehow my children, that hard workdetermination is the key to suc-”

eyes started as a merchandiser inbeer and beverage industry at theof 20. Very shortly after, he was

moted to sales representative, andn after he became a supervisor foryears.ow, and for the past 10 years hebeen the sales director for Rivieraorts, working with many productseer, wine and spirits from Europe,n America and the Caribbean.

Reyes explains that when Red Stripemoved its export business from Jamai-ca to the U.S., Riviera Imports went into help create a beverage product forexport, which became DG White Over-

proof Rum. This product is distributedin key Caribbean markets across theU.S.

“In this way we are contributingto the Jamaican economy and saveda number of jobs,” he says. RivieraImports also distributes Jamaican

export Dragon Stout.For 10 years, Riviera Imports has

been greatly involved in carnival inNew York. Reyes says, “I am proud tobe in a position to help sponsor fes-tivities, which are so integral in theCaribbean tradition.”

“It takes a lot of money to run theCaribbean Day parade. We help withproduct and help support some mascamps,” he adds. “We also helped theCaribbean Association in Dade Coun-ty, Florida, this year.”

Next year Rivera Imports plans tohelp Caribbean Associations for theircarnivals in Houston, Connecticut,Boston and Miami and Juan looks for-

ward to making stronger linkages andsponsoring carnivals nationwide.

Support goes also to other com-munity activities like events with UnaClark. Last August, Riviera Importshelped sponsor Charlie Records – thelargest Calypso producer – at the Ful-ton Street Festival.

“The Caribbean community is sohardworking,” Reyes says. “We come

here with a goal and a dream t vide for our families. Riviera Im wants to help support other roots, social and civic activities.our endeavors, we want to heresidents of the community.”

Juan Reyessg wk hc pd y p

a young age, Juan Reyes, migrated from the

minican Republic and like most immigrant fami-

s, his parents left their homeland for a better

ure for their three offspring.

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23/28



Hailing from Jamaica, Rodney grad-uated from University of West Indies,

with training at the Sorbonne andCaribbean Institute of Mass Communi-cations; he regularly orchestrates net-

work television promotional opportu-nities for Jamaica and the Caribbean.

Rodney has created brand awarenessand increased sales for several highprofile companies including GraceFoods, Western Union, Jamaica TouristBoard, Breezes Bahamas, Rhum Bar-bancourt in Haiti and NYC’s summerconcert Groovin’ In The Park.

Additionally, his company has creat-ed publicity campaigns for an array ofpopular musicians and related enter-tainment companies.

Rodney has anchored many high-profile international media driv-

en events in Jamaica including TheMotown Soul By The Sea, MTV SpringBreak and the HBO Sinbad Soul MusicFestival, one of the most profitableevents of its kind ever held in Jamaica.

In less than a week millions of dollarsin foreign exchange were earned forJamaica.

He created a one-hour French reg-gae program in Quebec that becamesyndicated in 11 markets. He is partlyresponsible for the development of key

radio links from New York to else- where in the Jamaican / Caribbean

Diaspora.His expertise in integrating mul-tiple media platforms and the traveltrade in high yielding target marketsmaximizes earnings for the Caribbeanregion. And, locally and internation-ally, he continues to be a major pro-motional engine for a wide range ofmedia-driven events.

Among his other achievement s,Rodney pioneered the first dancehallsigning to a U.S. major labels through

Atlantic Records as far back as 1988. Author of a book on pop sensation

Usher, Rodney has also pushed relent-lessly for the promotion of overseas-based Jamaican authors. He has also

written much of the JTB’s promotionalbrochures on aspects of Jamaican cul-ture and writes periodically for sev-eral publications. He has served on theboard of the National Gallery of Art inJamaica.

Rodney also has a passion for explor-ing South American rivers, jungles and

rain forests. He feels thatsurvival skills course in Bhim to execute guerilla-sroots marketing campaign

Of his operational philsays, “I create opportuniting and synergizing the pand having the persistencethem. I map out plans, viscoming obstacles and retaito adapt to changing condever-changing world.”

Dave RodneyMj mc pm d w

Multi-lingual, media-marketing consultant, TV host,

author and freelance writer, Dave Rodney is co-pres-

ident of Images LLC, a media marketing company

based in New York.

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Must mention this at time of purchase for these offers to be valid. Offers cannot

with coupons, sales, discounts, union plans or insurances. Good only at E .N.G

Vision Center, Brooklyn, NY. Offer for limited time. See store for detai

Congratulations to

Mr. Edgar Henry and the other honor

of the 2015 Impact Awards

Celestial Funeral Services congratulatesPastor Gilford Monrose

on receiving the Caribbean Life ImpactAward 2015. Well deserved!

2037 A Utica Ave, Brooklyn NY 11234 • 718-670-7300

Zoran Vaz congratulates

Judy Newtonon receiving the Caribbean Life

Impact Award 2015.

I applaud you for your selfless

love and hard work.

Well deserved!


24/28

4 Caribbean Life, November 13—19, 2015 BQ


ina, as she prefers to be called, wasattending college — she obtainedsiness and finance degree — hadl-time job with Amerigroup, whenwas enticed to explore real estate.

took a course at night. Oncensed, she began working part-timeRapid Realty and began to focushigh-end rentals and commerciales.merigroup was looking to opentional offices throughout New

k City and Rapid Realty had com-cial spaces everywhere. Rodriguezd a way to have both companies

k in harmony with each other.brokered several commercial dealsset commission records at the

. Once out of school, she put more into real estate.

fter gaining expertise in the indus-she helped open the Bedford office.

Soon after, she jumped at an opportu-nity to open up a Rapid Realty fran-chise in North Park Slope.

Rodriguez’s ability to manage peo-ple and her competitive attitude makeher a great asset to Rapid Realty. Sheinspires her agents as they look for anexample of what hard work and dedica-

tion can lead to.She is now a multi-unit franchisee,

an advisory council member and oneof Rapid’s first area developers.

Nina has aspirations to bring thebrand to markets outside of New York

City. Nina volunteers to assist otherfranchisees.In the “giving back realm,” she

coordinates charity events such asthose for the American Cancer Societyand Make-A-Wish Foundation.

Involved with relief for those affect-ed by Hurricane Sandy, she and herteam helped people clean up andgather their belongings. “We placedmany of them in new homes withoutcharge,” she says.

“Also, my team and I of ten help provide clothing, electronics and schoolsupplies for the children in shelters,”she said.

Who inspired her? “My team,” shesays. “They’re young and ambitious.Their hard work makes me want to

work harder so that I can help themreach their goals.”

With Thanksgiving coming, she andher team are collecting turkeys andcanned good to deliver to people inneed, mostly from the Caribbean and

Hispanic communities. They’relooking forward to a toy drivChristmas.

Nina Rodriguez was born in York and raised in Puerto Rico.

Nina Rodriguezrl wh ddc chy

noshka Rodriguez is one of Rapid Realty’s bright-

stars. She is a top performing franchisee, who

s worked with the company since 2007.

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tuart began working in the avia-industry as a teenager — he was

working as an accountant. He wento a career, spanning more than 25

s in airport operations and admin-tion.e has worked for three majorbbean-based airlines in leader-roles — briefly for GAC, 15 yearsBWI A, before transitioning to

bbean Airlines. With Caribbeannes, he has worked as manageruyana, then interim general man-for St. Maarten and Jamaica. He

rned to Guyana in 2010 to be air-manager for South America.

n the tri-state area since Decem-Stuart is now sales executive forbbean Airlines in New York andNorth East USA.uring this brief time, he has aided

Caribbean Airline’s transitional posi-tioning as a strong brand across theCaribbean Diaspora and leisure seg-ments of the market.

“I love serving communities,” Stu-art says of his work both in aviationand outside his profession. “WhenCaribbean Airlines has an opportunityto give back we do,” he says of its tri-state outreach.

He elaborates, “We transported toJamaica at no cost medical suppliesand portable equipment for clinics.”Caribbean Airlines also donates tick-ets for a myriad of Caribbean Diasporafundraising events.

This airline executive looks to hismother as having a great influenceon his life. “She reached out to per-sons disadvantaged,” he says. “As a

young boy, I got involved in commu-

nity work.”He is also an ordained minister, an

elder, in the African Methodist Episco-pal Church with a passion for working

with those at risk and disadvantaged.“I oversee a men’s counseling pro-

gram in New Jersey serving youth andadults,” he says. “We deal with issuesof gang violence, young men being

bullied, and access to opportunitiesnot easily obtained.” He adds, “I men-tor young men to move from hope-lessness to hope, to look to a bettertomorrow and that the past does notdetermine the future.”

In Guyana for the last 10 years, hehas also done community outreach

work including a twice-weekly feeding

program for youth at risk, a language

arts and book program for kidsupport for girl dropouts that in

working with the families.In November 2014, the govern

of Guyana recognized Stuart foutstanding work for more tha

decades in aviation in Guyana.

Carl Stuartsvg cmm h d d

e of eight siblings, Carl Stuart II grew up in Guy-

a. His parents instilled in him discipline, love for

d and respect for all men.

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He is president and chief execu-tive officer of The Friends of CrownHeights Educational Centers, Inc.,(FOCH), a community-based organiza-tion in the New York City. Since 2001,he has presided over the largest expan-sion of early childhood education serv-ices in the history of the 40-year-oldorganization.

There is now a network of 19 full-service centers in Brooklyn, Manhat-tan and Staten Island, one of the City’slargest providers of childcare and earlyeducation, including universal pre-Kand after-school programs.

In a relationship that spans 30 years,he has served in various capacities asa member and former chairman of theBoard of Directors.

Toney has also enjoyed a robustcareer in public service including acombined 14 years in policy in the

state legislatures in Albany. He wasparticularly inspired by State Sena-tor Leonard Stavisky with whom he

worked as special assistant .He says, “In addition to his 34 years

of service as a state legislator, Stavisky was a former professor of history and

government who brought that uniqueperspective and expertise to his posi-tion as chairman of the Senate Edu-cation Committee. And it was he whoinstilled in me at the earliest stages ofmy career a lifelong commitment topublic service and advocacy.”

Reflecting on life he continues, “It was he who taught me that public

service is a sacred calling and thenoblest of pursuits.”Toney left Albany to serve as chief-

of-staff for Council Member Una Clarkeand then 45th Council District Mem-ber Dr. Lloyd Henry.

He is also active in local institu-tions, churches and political organi-zations including a member of theboard of the Day Care Council of New

York and Cha ir of Tabernacle Day CareCenter.

Toney’s latest project is very excit-ing. With his colleagues and staff, heis spearheading “Bridging the Gap,”an initiative he explains, “that seeksto drastically reduce the word deficitthat poor children suffer in the earlieststages of life, relative to more affluentkids.”

The project makes an abundanceof children’s books readily accessiblefor loan or to keep for the parents andchildren attending the educationalcenters. Hands-on training for par-

ents to better simulate theinterest is also part of t“We want to maximize theto the wonder and beautyToney says.

Vaughan Toneya dvc chld

Vaughan Toney has been a life long advocate for

children. Born in St. Vincent and the Grenadines, hespent his formative years there.

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In the early 80s, his good friend Den-zel Washington encouraged Dennis, aperformer / poet, to write a one-manshow. Entitled “The First Black Presi-dent,” Dennis performed it 500 timesfrom 1981-2008.

“All along, I was working with youth,”Dennis says. During that time, he found-ed the National Black Youth LeadershipCouncil to inspire young folks to be win-ners, achievers, and successful.

The organization changed, now calledthe Center for Black Student Achieve-ment. “In three decades, we’ve reachedthree million children,” he says.

Much of his speaking is on collegecampuses. “I concentrate on the hip-

hop generation. I want them to beproblem solvers and have academic suc-cess.”

“You can change people’s percep-tions,” he tells them. “You can’t talklike a thug. You should have suits in

your closet, polished shoes, and knowhow to tie a tie.”

He emphasizes how he wants to cre-ate a generation of role models, inno-

vators, and mentors––global leaders,

looking to Barack and Michele Obamaas excell

caribbean life impact awards 2015

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