NYC 2024

NOV 7th 2024 | BROOKLYN, NY | 6:30 - 10:30 PM

MEET THE NOMINEES

Carib Biz Network proudly celebrates the entrepreneurial spirit of our start-ups, creators and business owners in our community throughout National Entrepreneurship Month - November. We know that Caribbean entrepreneurs play a critical role in NYC and the larger U.S. economy. They are innovative problem-solvers are the driving force behind economic growth, job creation, and technological advancements, consistently identifying challenges and crafting solutions that push industries forward. And so, we salute them!

WHAT IS ISLAND ICONS HONORS?

2024 AWARD CATEGORIES

BRAND OF THE YEAR NOMINEES

We believe everyone deserves to feel the euphoria and connection that soca music and fetes bring. FETE culture is growing and it is our mission to promote this magical experience globally while uplifting the artists, DJs, and communities that make it

NON-PROFIT ENTERPRISE OF THE YEAR NOMINEES

The Brooklyn Caribbean Literary Festival (BCLF) is a New York City-based 501c3 organisation that celebrates Caribbean literature and the region’s history of storytelling to the United States first, then to wider global audiences. It is a showcase of

Braata Productions is a multidisciplinary folk arts organization founded in 2009 to give Caribbean-born, Afro-Caribbean, and Caribbean-American artists a platform through which to showcase their work and talents. Braata annually serves a diverse audi

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Jahajee is a gender justice organization that activates Indo-Caribbeans in New York to put an end to intimate partner, family, and sexual violence.

We are a healing and political home for Indo-Caribbeans who are impacted by gender-based violence. We

Régine M. Roumain is the co-founder and Executive Director of Haiti Cultural Exchange (HCX). Established in 2009, HCX has developed programs designed to present Haitian culture to a broad audience, while supporting emerging and established artists,

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ARTS EXCELLENCE TRAILBLAZER NOMINEES

Artist + Founder, BAD Guild
Malene Djenaba Barnett is an award-winning multidisciplinary artist, textile surface designer and the founder of the Black Artists + Designers Guild, a global platform and community of independent Black makers. Malene’s art reflects her African Caribbean heritage, building on her ancestral legacy of mark-making as a visual identity, and has been exhibited at galleries and museums throughout the United States. Her art and design work has also been featured in major publications such as the New York Times, Architectural Digest, and Elle Decor. In 2024, Malene released her first book, “Crafted Kinship: Inside the Creative Practice of Contemporary Black Caribbean Makers” (Hachette), which includes interviews with over 60 artists of Caribbean heritage, taking readers on an important journey through the world of Black Caribbean creativity. This groundbreaking collection is the first to feature Caribbean makers’ intimate stories of their artmaking processes, and how their countries of origin—the “land” —influences and informs how and what they create. Malene is a Fulbrighter, gives talks nationally, and publishes work raising awareness of Caribbean makers and ceramic art traditions of the Black diaspora. Malene has participated in residencies at Anderson Ranch, Watershed, Greenwich House Pottery, Judson Studios, Haystack and Hambidge Center. In 2024, she was the Nellie Mae Rowe Distinguished Fellow at the Hambidge Center in Georgia. When she’s not traveling the world researching Black diasporic aesthetics, Malene resides in Brooklyn, New York.

Playwright + Screenwriter
Eljon Wardally is an award-winning playwright and screenwriter who is passionate about telling stories about the underrepresented and giving a face to the faceless. She writes about loneliness, national and family secrets but also has a zest for telling stories with a dark comedic twist. She is a five-time O’Neill finalist, Kennedy Center finalist as well as a Princess Grace Playwriting Award finalist. Her work has been featured on stages and screens across the world as well as in Vanity Fair, on MLB and at Lincoln Center. A recipient of the Finding Holy Ground commission, her play "I Am...a Shepherdess" received its world premiere at the International Black Theatre Festival in 2024. Eljon was also awarded the prestigious Sylvia Sprinkle-Hamlin Rolling World Premiere Award for her play, “Blooming in Dry Season” which will have at least 3 rolling world premieres at regional Black theatres in 2025 and 2026.

Artist + Creative Director
Steven Baboun is an artist, photographer, and creative director from Port-au-Prince, Haiti, based in New York City. He holds a Bachelor’s degree in Film and Media Arts and a minor in Education Studies from American University, as well as a Master of Fine Arts in Photography from Parsons School of Design. Baboun works in photography, video, performance, textile + multimedia installation, and design. Currently, Baboun is the founder and creative director of Studio Baboun, a creative house based in Brooklyn, New York. He is the co-founder, CEO, and lead creative of NativRoots Collective, a content production and creative development agency. He additionally performs under the digital persona Marie-Claude, a Haitian comedic character developed during the height of the pandemic. Marie-Claude aims to connect with the Haitian community through humor and positivity, as well as highlight critical social issues in the community through comedy.

Born in Montego Bay, Jamaica, with a transformational move to Brooklyn, New York at 11 years old, Tanya Weddemire became a passionate and accomplished Luxury Retail Executive. With a unique art background and possessing strong analytical and conceptual thinking skills Tanya has a proven track record for driving results. Over the years, she has been dedicated to building and retaining a dynamic diverse team with exceptional developmental skills.

At the age of 18, after graduating from High School, she started her career path in New York City. While working in the fashion industry for the designer Mary McFadden Couture, Tanya and Murphy Lewis first met, this is also where she developed her sense of style, a strong passion for art and her love for wearing all black. At age 21, she became their youngest Account Executive traveling with 6 trunks of couture gowns on 747 Jets across the country. Tanya excelled while supporting accounts such as Saks Fifth Avenue, Neiman Marcus and Bergdorf Goodman.

Just after this foray into fashion, Tanya supported Murphy Lewis for the launch of The Global Voice Foundation in its original inception.

She relocated to Philadelphia to raise her two children and enrolled at Philadelphia University, majoring in Graphic Design. Tanya earned her Bachelor of Arts Degree shortly thereafter and was placed on the Dean’s List for her body of designs.

As an Interior Designer, Tanya worked for Pottery Barn, a subsidiary of Williams Sonoma, where for the next five years, each year, she would write over $1.5MIL in business. Curating the most eclectic spaces for her clients was definitely her true passion. Shortly after that she was recruited by Natuzzi Italia to relaunch their northeast stores and overseeing interior design projects with a budget of $5 million dollars.

Ethan Allen Global recruited Tanya to oversee their New Jersey District. She coached her team into success through her strong business thinking paired with intentional interior design. These efforts enabled them to be profitable throughout the pandemic with no adverse effects.

From her love of everything art Tanya has just initiated the Tanya Weddemire Gallery a nonprofit 501c3, where she'll be representing—at first through private parties, pop up, restaurants, and other gallery partnership – emerging artists.

Tanya is a dynamic and charismatic leader. She holds a strong passion for art, fashion and interior design. With her multidisciplinary design background, along with her business developmental skill set Tanya makes it a duty to show up by being present and always having an open mind.

Performing Artist
Oneika Phillips, recognized as the first Grenadian woman on Broadway, has broken boundaries and is a vibrant Caribbean Ambassador in the American Arts scene. Her Broadway credits include 1776, FELA!, Spongebob Squarepants, The Musical, Violet, and Amazing Grace. Off-Broadway, she appeared in Black No More starring Black Thought of The Roots, and is cemented in New York stage history, opening Watch Night at The Perelman Arts Center, NYC’s newest performance space at the hallowed grounds of the WTC. Oneika has toured nationally and internationally in FELA!, 1776, and the 50th Anniversary International Tour of West Side Story. She has graced prestigious stages worldwide, from London to Nigeria, Japan to Jamaica. Other notable projects include In Your Arms, Standpipe, and a Caribbean adaptation of Ibsen's A Doll's House, Leonora. Before Broadway, Oneika performed with Abdel Salaam's Forces of Nature Dance Theatre. Oneika is an instructor with the Dance Fitness phenomenon, Socanomics, blending Culture and Conditioning using the effervescent music and movement of the Caribbean. In February she held community class on her home island, free of charge for all ages, adding wellness and health to the conversation of Grenada's exuberant 50th Independence celebrations. Follow her artistic journey on Instagram at @DragonPassionFruit.

GLAAD award-winning filmmaker, Sekiya Dorsett centers a multidimensional Black experience. Bringing in to sharper focus the lives of Black women, queer folks, the working class and their intersections, Sekiya’s body of work is notable for its intimate storytelling. Her first feature, 2017’s “The Revival: Women and the Word” traversed the United States on tour with Black lesbian poets is distributed by Women Make Movies. In 2019, she directed a four-episode documentary series, “Stonewall 50: The Revolution,” for NBC News and NBCOut. The series’ deep dive into the historic uprising won a GLAAD Media Award and the award for Excellence in Digital Journalism from NLGJA: The Association of LGBTQ Journalists. Recently, Sekiya was one of the cinematographers who brought “In Our Mother’s Gardens (Netflix),” a masterpiece of intergenerational Black woman confessional storytelling, to critical and audience acclaim. Sekiya's films have screened at Tribeca Film Festival, Urbanworld Film Festival, the Brooklyn Museum, Frameline Film Fest and Outfest Film Festival. And her work has been featured in HuffPost, MIC, BuzzFeed & Essence. Sekiya holds a Master of Fine Arts from Hunter College. She’s a fierce champion of her homebase, Bed-Stuy, Brooklyn. The iconic neighborhood is the main character of her next project, I LOVE BED-STUY, a docu-fiction feature length love story and love letter to Brooklyn’s iconic neighborhood.

Kiara Paige is a Professional Dancer and Choreographer with over ten years of experience performing professionally. Although Kiara has heavily trained in Modern, Ballet, Jazz, Hip Hop and Tap dance, her passion lies in dances from the Caribbean and African diaspora. She is leader within the dance community that is responsible for sharing her knowledge of dance with others through her teachings and choreography.
Upon graduating with her B.A. in dance, Kiara became the Founder of her dance company, CarNYval Dancers, her dance and fitness brand, The Kross Movement and her newest business, Kulture Kave LLC. Kiara’s work has been performed and viewed on various stages as such as International African Arts Festival, Lincoln Center, Times Square, Queensboro Dance Festival Tour, MODArts Collective Thread Festival, Radio City Music Hall, The Soca Monarch in Trinidad & Tobago and NYC's Labor Day Parade in addition to many others. As a Dance Artist, Kiara has performed at events and venues as such as Symphony Space, Wofabe, The Hunger Project, Syracuse State Fair, Dance Africa 2013 and Dance Africa 2014. Kiara has also performed with various Afrobeats, Soca and Reggae artists and was the choreographer for the World’s Largest Soca Flash Mob which took place in Brooklyn, New York. Her dancing and teachings have also taken her internationally to Japan and Canada. Kiara uses dance to advocate for the rights of others across the globe and was instrumental in raising funds for Project Protect NG to support the End SARS movement in Nigeria.
Kiara is currently an Adjunct Professor for Queens College, Teaching Artist for Alvin Ailey American Dance Theatre: Arts In Education program and for Notes In Motion. She is also a Certified Fitness Instructor with YMCA of Greater NY. She is a passionate and powerful artist that uses her positive attitude and platform to encourage others to tap into their passion for dance. She is inspired daily by her husband, their daughter and son. Kiara anticipates obtaining more knowledge and credentials within her fields of dance and fitness. She is excited to continue working on her long time goal of promoting, sharing, and uplifting Caribbean culture so that she can continue to provide opportunities, educate and learn with others.

MUSIC + CULTURE ADVOCATE NOMINEES

No Long Talk is a multi-disciplinary entertainment company specializing in music, community building, experiences & merchandise. Our mission is to elevate authentic Caribbean culture around the globe.

FASHION + DESIGN AMBASSADOR NOMINEES

Designer

Jasmin Nessa Ali is a Guyanese fashion designer from Queens, New York. Her brand, NESSA, is a womenswear fashion brand that is designed and handmade by Jasmin in her bedroom studio. The brand’s two main fashion influences are New York City streetwear and Guyanese pride. Her clothing features streetwear staples like cargo shorts and cropped hoodies, but holds true to Guyanese aesthetics and silhouettes, including sarees, lehengas, gold, and beading. The purpose of the brand is to elevate collaboration among artists, and speak power to Guyanese people for as long as NESSA thrives.

Model + Owner, Studio Dem

Dreu Beckemberg, born in Kingston, Jamaica, initially pursued a career in architecture before relocating to Brooklyn, New York, where he discovered his talent for male grooming as a barber. With over 16 years of experience in the fashion industry, his growing popularity led him to open his own shop and expand into the world of styling. He later honed his craft at the Fashion Institute of Technology, where he began designing custom suits for high-profile clients through his brand, "Beckemberg Made for You." Building on this success, he introduced "Beckemberg Cricket Club," a ready-to-wear collection inspired by cricket. The line merges classic and contemporary styles, celebrating the modern gentleman's lifestyle with a perfect blend of sophistication and boldness.

Owner, The Brooklyn Circus

Owner, Theophilio

Jamaican-born, New York-bred designer, Terese Sydonna Brown is a 2022 alumna of the Workshop at Macy’s, 2014 alumna of the Philadelphia Fashion Incubator at Macy’s, holds a dual degree in Economics & Business and Studio Art from Lafayette College, and a Fashion Design degree from The Fashion Institute of Technology (F.I.T.). Terese’s fusion of her vibrant Jamaican culture, Japanese art, and architecture is evident in every collection. She credits her parents for instilling a strong work ethic and love for community. Along with her grandmother’s teachings and experiences working on both the corporate and creative sides of the fashion industry, Terese sets herself apart with her knowledge of fit, construction, prints and mixing fabrications. She thoroughly understands the human condition of the customer as well as the buyer’s point of view. These experiences served as the catalyst for her namesake label and lifestyle brand, Terese Sydonna in 2011. While working in the corporate world, she recognized the importance to create a safe space for women to be more of themselves. Through her Terese Sydonna designs she empowers more women to tap into their inner superhero to then show up their authentic selves and do good in their communities. Terese is especially passionate about helping women entrepreneurs. With over a decade of self- starter experience designing collections for big box retailers, she has advised and guided the building of fashion brands from start-up design to growth stages. She is also a mentor at her alma matter, Lafayette College and sits on several advisory boards centered around entrepreneurship.

Shaw Bernard is a trailblazing entrepreneur, model, and advocate for empowering women and youth. Originally from Trinidad and Tobago, Shaw began her journey with aspirations of becoming a lawyer but shifted her focus to the modeling industry, where she has made a lasting impact. With over 22 years of experience, she has worked as a model, runway coach, agency owner, agent, and scout. Shaw is the founder of STRUT Models and STRUT with Shaw LLC, organizations dedicated to educating and developing aspiring talent in the fashion industry. Through her STRUT Esteem Program, Shaw focuses on using the principles of modeling to enhance self-esteem and leadership skills in young people. Most recently, she premiered STRUT THE YARD: The Documentary, a project honoring the modeling competition held at the illustrious Howard University, which awarded the winner a modeling contract and cemented STRUT's place in the university's history. Shaw's mission is to create opportunities, uplift others, and leave an indelible mark on the modeling industry.

HEALTH + WELLNESS AMBASSADOR NOMINEES

Meet dynamic duo Wendy Jules RN and Carla Nelson RN, LE, two dedicated healthcare professionals with a shared passion for nursing and skincare. With over 15 years of combined experience in nursing, they have cared for patients in various clinical settings, always striving to enhance well-being and promote health. Their deep understanding of medical science, coupled with a love for aesthetics, led them to embark on an exciting journey to create Fleur De Lis Beauty & Esthetics —a place where beauty and wellness meet. Driven by their desire to provide top-tier, personalized care, Wendy and Carla built Fleur De Lis Beauty on the foundation of compassionate healthcare principles. They specialize in advanced skincare treatments and non-invasive aesthetic procedures, offering everything from facials to laser therapies. Their approach is not just about enhancing outward beauty, but also nurturing clients’ confidence and self-care routines. Combining their expertise in skin health and patient care, these two nurses have created a haven where clients can trust that their skincare goals will be met with professionalism, empathy, and outstanding results. Their mission is simple: to help every client love the skin they’re in, while maintaining the highest standards of medical care.

My name is Jerry Francois born and raised in Brooklyn. I’m a father first and leader/coach second building fitness and wellness for my community since 2016 running with purpose.

Krista Martins is a Choreographer, Group Fitness Instructor and Entrepreneur. With over 20 years experience in the commercial dance industry, Krista melded her dance background with her love of soca, fitness and community, to create Wukkout! - a soca dance fitness class and nationally accredited instructor training program - as a way to diversify the fitness space through a truly inclusive and welcoming experience. Her mission through Wukkout! has always been to promote wellness equity for all individuals, regardless of their socioeconomic status, gender, or race. She believes that everyone should have access to resources and opportunities that promote their physical, mental, and social well-being. She has been able to impact 15,000+ people in underserved communities over the last 11 years. Krista has received much recognition for her work including: -New York State Senate Citation for community contributions -Recognition from The Public Advocate for the City of New York -Citation of Honor for Community and Cultural Impact from The Queens Borough President -Caribbean Life Impact Award Recipient More recently, Krista is also using her expertise as a small business owner to help other dance and fitness professionals grow their brands and build their businesses through mentorship.

Allison Dunn is a seasoned entrepreneur, author, and advocate for women's empowerment. She is dedicated to serving her community by mentoring women and helping them find joy and purpose in their lives. Allison’s many business accomplishments have been featured on Fox 5’s Emmy Award winning special television series, “Caribbean in the City,” in print in the New York Post, NewsBreak, Travel Noire, The Infatuation, and the Amsterdam News. Her cafe, Hibiscus Brew, was nominated by Refinery 29 for “99 Days of Design,” a program working to empower small businesses through graphic design support. NewsBreak called the cafe a “pandemic success story” while The Jamaica Gleaner described it as “an adorable, tropical cafe...paradise in the middle of a concrete jungle.”

Owners, Life Wellness Center

Founder, Heart, Body + Soul
Christopher Williams is the Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Heart, Body & Soul, Inc. (HBS), a Brooklyn-based nonprofit, and the creator of "The Black Man’s Health Festival®", launched in June 2022 to focus on Black men’s health awareness. His journey into advocacy was sparked by personal health struggles, including two heart attacks and stage III appendiceal cancer, which redefined his life’s purpose. Motivated by disparities in healthcare, Christopher aims to address the lack of access to quality wellness programs, quality food and health education and advocacy for Black men. He advocates for open conversations about health, believing that these discussions are crucial for improving outcomes in the Black community. Christopher is also the Associate Publisher and co-founder of WhereItzAt Magazine, a family-owned NYC media company with over 20 years of service. With more than 25 years of experience in events, media, financial services and project management, he started his career as a radio engineer before transitioning into corporate roles in the private and public sector in New York. Today, Christopher continues to consult in media and event production, while focusing on advocating for better mental and physical health practices among Black men.

DIGITAL CREATOR EXCELLENCE NOMINEES

@nancyjay
Nancy is a vibrant and dynamic content creator based out of the vibrant streets of New York. Her passion for travel, lifestyle, dance, and beauty shines through in everything she does. Celebrating her Indo-Caribbean heritage and a BIPOC creator, she is passionate about promoting inclusivity and diversity in all of her content.

@thatnursecancook
Helena (Thatnursecancook) is a Registered Nurse and content creator from New York City who shares her love and passion for cooking with her audience on a daily basis. As a mother of three, Helena inspires Millennials to get comfortable in the kitchen and cook delicious meals for their families. The success of her massively popular food blog, "ThatNurseCanCook" has delighted millions of viewers around the world, led to write-ups in publications, and established various partnerships and collaborations. Helena also competed in Food Network's Outchef'd where she battled against a celebrity chef and restaurateur, and was crowned the winner in a home cook vs top chef showdown. Each of Helena's recipes showcases the vibrant and robust flavors of Caribbean cuisine, and it is clear that Helena boasts a talent of healing souls, one meal at a time.

@everytingsimsimma
Simone Mills, a first-generation American-Caribbean creator, uses her platform to celebrate her heritage. Originally focused on food, she expanded her content to include Caribbean culture and travel after a serendipitous Labor Day post. With a Master's degree from NYU, Simone explores the connection between carnival and resistance. Her content aims to authentically share the stories and experiences of the Caribbean, fostering understanding and inspiring others.

@stylenbeautydoc
A former finance girl, Danielle Gray is a New York City based fashion and beauty expert. She's a Hofstra University and Fashion Institute of Technology grad with an obsession for fashion and beauty which she loves to tell you all about on her award-winning blog and YouTube channel. Danielle's work and expertise can be found in print and across the web in Essence, GoodHousekeeping.com, Allure.com, and more! She's also appeared as an on-air style and beauty expert on The Real, Dr. Oz, Rachael Ray, Dr. Phil, and more!

I was born in Trinidad and moved to the United States when I was 14. Growing up, I struggled with my identity, especially facing bullying that made me feel disconnected from my Caribbean roots. I often wore different masks to disguise who I really was. It wasn’t until I uploaded a video sharing my Trinidadian accent and discussing depression and mental health that I realized the impact I could have. That moment helped me understand that I have a voice for those who look like me and share similar experiences, and now I’m committed to uplifting others in our community.

Dillon Macc is a New York based Caribbean content creator known for his humorous videos centered around Caribbean culture. His videos often showcase exaggerated yet relatable situations. Dillon Macc’s comedic style resonates with his audience, and he’s gained a significant following for his authentic and humorous portrayals of Caribbean life.

CULTURAL PRESERVATIONIST + STORYTELLER OF THE YEAR NOMINEES

Journalist + Reporter
Shniece Archer born and raised in Brooklyn, NY as a first generation Trinidadian American earned a Bachelors Degree in Media Communication and a Masters Degree in Journalism. Chasing her dreams as a journalist Shniece utilized her skills and expertise to navigate into her first newsroom position as an assignment desk assistant at CBS. While in the newsroom, her passion for reporting became more evident, igniting her flame to move to Florida and land her first role as an on-air reporter. This change in speed, culture, and lifestyle polished her for an opportunity to return to her hometown telling stories that matter in the Number 1 media market. Shniece now resides at News 12 as a senior multimedia journalist thriving to make an impact in her community. She hopes her passion for reporting will make an impact in every community she touches.

Award-Winning Writer
Stephanie Ramlogan is a Trinidadian writer whose work centers Caribbean people, food and culture. Her bylines include ESSENCE, Punch Magazine, Best Dressed Plate and Gal-dem. Her work is included in the anthology, Island Voices: a Collection of Caribbean Short Stories. She has won the Brooklyn Caribbean Literary Festival Elizabeth Nunez Writer's Prize and The Iowa Review Writer's Prize among others, and has also been the recipient of the 2023 Literary Cultural Award by the Trinidad and Tobago United Community Association. Stephanie has made a second home for herself in NYC where she observes the diaspora from within, interested in the way traditions are both preserved and adapted.

Award-Winning Journalist + ceo, Mel&N Media
Melissa Noel is an award-winning international journalist, host and media entrepreneur. She has built a distinguished career in television news and digital media with work that centers on reporting issues impacting the Black diaspora internationally and developing and managing strategic content partnerships.
Melissa is the founder and managing director of Mel&N Media Group, an enterprise rooted in strategic communications and brand development. She is also a News and Politics editor at ESSENCE where she ideates, pitches and produces, social justice, race, culture, Caribbean and global African diasporic-focused content across company platforms, including ESSENCE magazine and ESSENCE Festival of Culture. An experienced travel reporter and Caribbean expert, Melissa is a contributing writer for National Geographic Travel and Trip Savvy.com.
She is the creator of Destination Diaspora®, a docuseries and storytelling platform that highlights the impact of the African Diaspora in travel, culture and lifestyle. Melissa is a grantee of the renowned Pulitzer Center On Crisis Reporting and an Ethel Payne Reporting Fellow for foreign correspondence in Africa. A successful media entrepreneur, she was named one of the Top 50 Caribbean American Entrepreneurs two years in a row by the Carib Biz Network in 2020 and 2021.
A proud Guyanese American with over a decade of reporting and production experience, Melissa has made a proven impact at the intersections of media, entrepreneurship and social impact.

Danielle Pointdujour is a senior print editor at Travel + Leisure, leading hotel coverage and the brand's annual It List. She also covers destinations including the Caribbean, Central America, the Middle East, Turkey, North Africa, Florida, and Texas. A graduate of Howard University's Cathy Hughes School of Communications, Danielle has also been an editor at Ebony and Essence and has written for publications including Condé Nast Traveler, Cosmopolitan, and Sweet July. She has traveled to over 90 countries and stayed in 289 luxury hotels across the globe to date. Recently, she celebrated her 45th Four Seasons property stay in Bangkok, indulged in San Miguel de Allende's wine scene, and partied in Ghana. She loves seamless in-room check-ins, beautiful, over-the-top suites with tech features, secret hotel perks, and amazing culinary experiences. Outside of work, you can find her hanging somewhere in Brooklyn's Little Caribbean neighborhood and championing all things Black travel.

Sarita Nauth is a pioneering Indo-Caribbean Producer, Social Media Strategist, and Beauty Influencer. With nearly a decade of experience as a Senior Social Media Manager and Producer at esteemed networks such as VH1, BET, and MTV, Sarita has spearheaded numerous award-winning digital series, including the acclaimed Black Girl Beauty. Her expertise extends to crafting viral red carpet coverage for prestigious events like the VMAs, MTV Movie & TV Awards, BET Awards, NAACP Image Awards, and the MET Gala, resulting in over 300 million viral video views. As an Influencer, Sarita has forged exclusive partnerships with prominent beauty brands, including Juvia’s Place, Il Makiage, and Evolve MedSpa. Her robust background in Publicity and Communications is underscored by a Bachelor's degree in Advertising Marketing Communications from the Fashion Institute of Technology, complemented by ongoing education in Digital Cinematography at Berklee Online. With over 10 years of experience in Media & Entertainment, Sarita is dedicated to amplifying the visual narratives of Caribbean women. She aims to foster authentic conversations surrounding beauty, culture, and identity, bringing these vital stories to the forefront of the industry.

Journalist + Anchor
Jennifer Bisram is an award-winning reporter and anchor at CBS News New York - who covers everything from crime and law enforcement to aging and caregiving. Prior to CBS News New York, Jennifer was a reporter at PIX11 News in NYC - where in addition to breaking news, she covered education, crime, Rikers Island, parades, community stories and breaking news. Additionally, Jennifer reported and anchored in Detroit, Orlando and Miami. The Indo-Caribbean journalist has also written for publications including NY Newsday, Amsterdam News and Queens Chronicle, and is an accomplished author of children's books. The proud mom who was born in Brooklyn and raised in Queens, graduated from CUNY's Queens College.

CULINARY INNOVATOR OF THE YEAR NOMINEES

Chef, Author + Owner, Field Trip
JJ Johnson is a James Beard Award-winning chef, TV Personality, and Author best known for his barrier-breaking cuisine informed by the Caribbean flavors of his upbringing. He has been featured on multiple television shows, and has his television show called 'Just Eats with Chef JJ’ on CLEO TV. Chef JJ's cookbook, "The Simple Art of Rice: Recipes from Around the World for the Heart of Your Table," was listed as one of New York Times Best Cookbooks in 2023. He is the chef and founder of FIELDTRIP, a made-to-order rice bowl shop that debuted in 2019 with three locations in NYC and one in the Bahamas, Atlantis Paradise Island. Chef JJ highlights rice as a hero ingredient and showcases it in recipes sourced from around the world. As one of the only fast-casual restaurants on Esquire’s “America’s Best New Restaurants” list in 2020, FIELDTRIP utilizes sustainable ingredients and ethically sourced vegetables and proteins, creating a flavorful and diverse dining experience. JJ Johnson recently took on the role of Culinary Creative Director of Blue LLama, a jazz club in Ann Arbor, Michigan, and has launched a concept with Wonder called Bankside, which brings the oasis of the Atlantic Shore to New Yorkers and New Jerseyians' doorsteps. Chef JJ is known for combining his signature cooking style, culturally relevant ingredients, and classical techniques with a global perspective in all his culinary endeavors.

Chef + Owner, Fat Fowl
Chef Shorne is a visionary in the kitchen and fierce competitor. Career highlights include an annual presentation at the James Beard House and competing against Bobby Flay on the Food Network’s Beat Bobby Flay. Chef Shorne is a regular participant at the Annual Wine and Food Festivals in NY and South Beach, and U.S. Open / Citi’s "Taste of Tennis" events in NY, D.C., and the British Virgin Islands.

Chef Shorne has appeared on TV as a guest chef on NBC’s “6 In the Mix” and WGN-TV Chicago’s “Midday Fix” cooking segments. In 2017, he won the Grace® Jamaican Jerk Festival Celebrity Chef Throw Down. Chef Shorne gained international acclaim as a guest chef at Mimo’s in London; featured chef at the British Virgin Island’s Food Fete; semi-finalist in the 11th International Iron Chef Competition in Toronto; participant in the 2015 and 2016 Food & Spirits Festivals in Haiti; and the inaugural chef for the 2016 Celebrity Guest Chef Series at the award-winning Cliff Restaurant located at the Five Star Cap Maison Hotel & Spa in St. Lucia.

Nadège Fleurimond, a Haitian-born culinary innovator and author, has redefined Haitian cuisine through her acclaimed establishment, BunNan, situated in Brooklyn’s vibrant Flatbush Caton Market. Her culinary journey, highlighted by appearances on Food Network’s "Chopped" and accolades from Epicurious, Condé Nast, and Food & Wine Magazine, blends cultural celebration with entrepreneurial success. Beyond her kitchen prowess, Nadège is a published author of "Haiti Uncovered: A Regional Adventure Into the Art of Haitian Cuisine" and "Taste of Solitude: A Culinary Journal," reflecting her deep-rooted passion for Haitian culinary traditions and personal growth. As a sought-after business strategist and coach, Nadège empowers entrepreneurs globally through ROAR coaching sessions, leveraging her Columbia University education in political science to inspire purpose-driven leadership through the universal language of food.

Trinidadian chef Osei Blackett better known as “Chef Picky” remember his early days assisting his mother in the kitchen as some of his most cherished childhood memories. Taking an interest in the culinary arts at a very young age, Chef Picky eventually migrated to the US at the age of 20 to hone his skills and pursue his passion for cooking. Osei is the Chef/ Owner at “Ariapita”, “Chef Picky Events + Catering” , “Everything Oxtail” and his extremely popular, “Pop up” food focused events referred to as "The Picky Experience". Now, with almost 20 years' experience in the Food industry, his culinary journey has taken him to prestigious heights, executing menus at The James Beard House, Gracie Mansion and the United Nations Offices. Osei is one of the most sought-after West Indian Chefs in New York City. Remaining humble and connected to his roots he uses local events to convey his vision for the Trinbagonian/Caribbean culinary cuisine. Ultimately his goal is the bring awareness to what makes Trinbagonian food so special, it has always been connected to memories of grandparents, parents, family and friends, moments in time, special days and community. He plans to use these cherished home recipes and his knowledge of the food industry to share it with foodies across America plate by plate.

Co-Owner, HAAM
Yesenia Ramdass is the co-Owner of "Healthy As A Motha," a brand and restaurant dedicated to overcoming the challenges of transitioning to a healthy, plant-based lifestyle. Inspired by witnessing others battle disease, her goal is to educate people about alternative health options and nutritional strategies. Passionate about holistic nutrition, Yesenia views the body as a whole, encompassing the mind, body, and soul. After becoming a vegetarian at 17, her journey deepened when she lost her mother to stage IV kidney cancer in 2018. Married to Randy, she is a mother of three and started her blog in 2017 to share her insights on health.

Owners, Aunts et Uncles
Aunts et Uncles is a lifestyle shop and plantbased café founded by Mike and Nicole Nicholas, a husband-and-wife team deeply rooted in the community.

Chef Scotley Innis is a prominent Black New York City chef known for co-owning the Hotel Indigo Williamsburg’s restaurant, Continent Brooklyn, and the Aliya Cocktail Den. With two decades of experience in New York and Atlanta, he has elevated menus with innovative dishes like chargrilled oysters with duck bacon and scotch bonnet beurre blanc salmon. Born in the Bronx and raised between NYC and Jamaica, Chef Scotley discovered his passion for cooking at a young age, leading him to culinary school at Le Cordon Bleu. His career includes notable positions at top Atlanta restaurants and a feature on Gordon Ramsay’s Hell’s Kitchen. Recognized for his contributions to contemporary cuisine, he aims to expand his culinary brand, Scotch Yard, globally, blending Jamaican and Scottish influences.

Joshua Dat, owner of Datz Deli, who was born and raised in Jamaica, Queens is applying what he has learnt while going to his grandmother's temple, where people would donate food and clothes – being kind to others. According to Dat, his dad had the greatest influence on him, and he was motivated by his dad's work ethic.

BEAUTY INDUSTRY TRAILBLAZER NOMINEES

Waheeda Khan is a Caribbean beauty and lifestyle influencer who works behind the scenes to support victims of domestic violence and advocate for the safety of children. Her mission is to bring sun-kissed skin representation to the beauty industry, emphasizing that individuals from diverse backgrounds should not be seen as an afterthought.

Celebrity MUA
Keanda Vivar is a seasoned celebrity Makeup Artist and Beauty Service Company founder that has been in the beauty industry for over 20 years. Her main objective is for her clients look like an enhanced version of themselves while also creating job opportunities for others people of color in the beauty industry. She is a professional that has a well rounded makeup style. Her techniques consist of beauty and special effects while executing innovative makeup looks that has graced print, television, radio, runway, and social media platforms. She has worked with credible film, media, radio and Cosmetic companies such as ABC, Essence, Netflix, BET, HBO, IHeart, Complex, L'Oréal and Estée Lauder.

As an educator, platform artist, and creative visionary, LaFond has played a pivotal role in launching some of today's top beauty brands, and has trained thousands of professionals across 15 countries, redefining industry standards.

Founder, Magic Fingers Studio + Insttitue
Stasha Harris is the CEO and founder of Magic Fingers Studio and Magic Fingers Natural Hair Institute. With over 20 years in the salon/beauty industry, she has built a thriving brand known for excellence in natural hair care and education. As a licensed cosmetologist and instructor, Stasha is passionate about elevating the standards of natural hairstyling and mentoring the next generation of stylists. She is also an examiner for the cosmetology board and an inventor, having created her own product line in partnership with Ampro.

At the age of 15 Adrian fell in love with barbering when a barbershop opened next to his home in the Caribbean island of St Lucia. He runs a barbershop in NYC and recently launched a skin care line.

Pro MUA + Podcaster
Jaleesa Jaikaran is a Pro MUA + Podcaster. EGrowing up on the small island of Trinidad, Jaleesa developed a lifelong passion for beauty. Taking a leap of faith, she moved to New York to pursue her dream of makeup. With training from industry greats like Kabuki, Pat McGrath, and Diane Kendal on sets and during fashion weeks in New York, Milan, and Paris, she honed her eye for color and focused on perfecting skin tones of all shades. Her work has been featured in publications including Elle, Glamour, Teen Vogue, Essence, L’Occitane, Vogue Italia, and Refinery29. Her love for beauty and keen attention to detail have attracted clients such as MAC Cosmetics, Lancôme, Ami Cole, IT Cosmetics, and Mizani.

Gillian Garcia is a hairstylist, educator, content creator, and serial entrepreneur. She is the face of the new trend of healthy hair in the beauty industry. She was born in Trinidad and Tobago and later moved to the United States of America looking for a bright future. She also has a hair care line called Ju Poppin.

COMMUNITY + CULTURE AMBASSADOR OF THE YEAR NOMINEES

Founder/Owner: Soca Run Festival, Nine Galaree, Never Settle + Standard Grooming

Johanne Brierre, a visionary business architect, is transforming the landscape for small business entrepreneurs. Born in Haiti and raised in Brooklyn, Johanne has become a key figure in driving business growth and innovation. Since launching BKLYN Commons in 2016, she has continued to create dynamic spaces for entrepreneurs, including NY Beauty Suites, which she pioneered during the pandemic. Johanne’s efforts have supported over 50 beauty businesses, empowering solopreneurs to thrive despite challenges. Her work impacts over 500 smallbiz members across three locations in Brooklyn, demonstrating her deep commitment to building a strong, vibrant business community in the city she calls home

Founder, Heart, Body + Soul
Christopher Williams is the Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Heart, Body & Soul, Inc. (HBS), a Brooklyn-based nonprofit, and the creator of "The Black Man’s Health Festival®", launched in June 2022 to focus on Black men’s health awareness. His journey into advocacy was sparked by personal health struggles, including two heart attacks and stage III appendiceal cancer, which redefined his life’s purpose. Motivated by disparities in healthcare, Christopher aims to address the lack of access to quality wellness programs, quality food and health education and advocacy for Black men. He advocates for open conversations about health, believing that these discussions are crucial for improving outcomes in the Black community. Christopher is also the Associate Publisher and co-founder of WhereItzAt Magazine, a family-owned NYC media company with over 20 years of service. With more than 25 years of experience in events, media, financial services and project management, he started his career as a radio engineer before transitioning into corporate roles in the private and public sector in New York. Today, Christopher continues to consult in media and event production, while focusing on advocating for better mental and physical health practices among Black men.

Activist

Lucia D. Pascale SOLAGES is a renowned feminist activist and grassroots organizer, known for championing the rights of Haitian women and girls. As the leader of NÈGÈS MAWON, one of Haiti’s foremost feminist organizations, she has spent over a decade advocating for reproductive justice, ending violence against women, and promoting active public participation. Pascale also co-founded NOU PAP DÒMI to fight corruption and support social justice.
Her extensive experience includes consulting roles with global organizations such as the UNFPA and Plan International, and advisory roles on gender issues within the Haitian government. Under her leadership, NÈGÈS MAWON launched impactful projects, including the “SISTERHOOD” program, aiding over 2,000 survivors of violence in conflict-affected zones. In 2023, she established “MAISON CLAIRE HEUREUSE,” a safe house providing comprehensive support and empowerment programs for survivors.
Pascale’s innovative work includes founding Haiti's first feminist festival, which unites thousands of participants through "Artivism" to promote women’s rights, and publishing “ALASO,” a Haitian feminist anthology. She also collaborated with the Haitian State University to create an interdisciplinary feminist studies program.
Despite facing persecution for her activism, Pascale remains dedicated to her mission. She continues leading NÈGÈS MAWON while serving as a program manager for a New York-based nonprofit supporting Haitian migrants. Her work spans media, education, and advocacy, and she is internationally recognized for her tireless commitment to human rights, LGBT rights, and good governance in Haiti.

Founder, Gentlemen's Factory
Jeff Lindor is the chief executive officer of Groomed Success which helps men of color navigate, participate and succeed in today’s world. His company provides professional development consultation to over 2,000 men in New York City. His clients include The City University of New York, New York City Department of Youth & Community Development, the city’s Department of Education, i-mentor and the New York State Department of Parole.
He has worked for New York City Department of Correction, advising the executive staff on an historic anti-violence reform agenda. He has also worked in the healthcare industry where he played a major role in the initial roll out of the Affordable Care Act. He co-founded Fitness for Flatbush, which offers free fitness classes to combat the staggering rate of heart disease and diabetes in Brooklyn, New York.
Jeff earned his B.A. at the City University of New York (York College) and his Master’s in urban policy analysis & management at The New School. Jeff lives in Brooklyn with his wife and two children.

Award-Winning Journalist + ceo, Mel&N Media
Melissa Noel is an award-winning international journalist, host and media entrepreneur. She has built a distinguished career in television news and digital media with work that centers on reporting issues impacting the Black diaspora internationally and developing and managing strategic content partnerships.
Melissa is the founder and managing director of Mel&N Media Group, an enterprise rooted in strategic communications and brand development. She is also a News and Politics editor at ESSENCE where she ideates, pitches and produces, social justice, race, culture, Caribbean and global African diasporic-focused content across company platforms, including ESSENCE magazine and ESSENCE Festival of Culture. An experienced travel reporter and Caribbean expert, Melissa is a contributing writer for National Geographic Travel and Trip Savvy.com.
She is the creator of Destination Diaspora®, a docuseries and storytelling platform that highlights the impact of the African Diaspora in travel, culture and lifestyle. Melissa is a grantee of the renowned Pulitzer Center On Crisis Reporting and an Ethel Payne Reporting Fellow for foreign correspondence in Africa. A successful media entrepreneur, she was named one of the Top 50 Caribbean American Entrepreneurs two years in a row by the Carib Biz Network in 2020 and 2021.
A proud Guyanese American with over a decade of reporting and production experience, Melissa has made a proven impact at the intersections of media, entrepreneurship and social impact.

Artist + Entrepreneur
Andrea K. Castillo is a Belizean-American artist & entrepreneur born and based in Brooklyn, NY. Her creative practice spans many mediums including music, visual art, dance, artistic direction, and writing. She is the founder of AKCreative, a one-stop creative agency with a focus in photography + writing, co-founder of The New Cari.com, a publication and agency focused on uplifting the stories of Caribbean creatives, and Double Barrel Rum Club, a NYC-based rum education and social club that works with world-renowned rum companies.