Marva Griffiths Herman was born in Montego Bay, Jamaica and has been involved with the Caribbean-American community for much of her life. After a break of caring for her two young sons, she became active again in the Caribbean-American community when she was approached by longtime friend Dr. Claire Nelson of the Washington, DC-based Institute of Caribbean Studies (ICS), to assist her with efforts to petition the United States government to establish a National Caribbean-American Heritage Month. On February 14, 2006, the United States Senate passed the Concurrent Resolution establishing June as National Caribbean American Heritage Month. Herman spearheaded the successful Los Angeles grassroots campaign and the inaugural celebrations held on June 16, 2006 where the Los Angeles City Council presented a proclamation establishing June as Caribbean American Heritage Month in Los Angeles in perpetuity. As a result of the congressional resolution, in 2007 Herman founded the Caribbean Heritage Organization, Inc. (CHO), which produces the official Los Angeles Caribbean-American Heritage Month gala, the Caribbean Heritage Salute to Hollywood & Excellence. In addition to serving as executive director of the CHO, she is the West Coast Representative for ICS and serves on the advisory boards of the Office of the Los Angeles Honorary Consul of Jamaica and READ/LEAD, an educational and mentorship initiative that among other things, provides literacy-based summer and after school programs in the Los Angeles area. This proud mother of two Jamericans is pleased that her Anansi and Jamaican folklorist, the Hon. Louise Bennett, bedtime stories paid off when her younger son, garnered a spot on Bill Cosby’s “Kids Says the Darndest Thing” with his toothless recital of Miss Lou’s “Love Letta.” For more information on Caribbean Heritage Organization, please visit www. caribbeanheritage.org.
Claire Nelson is Founder and President of the Institute of Caribbean Studies (ICS). Under her leadership, the non-profit community think/do-tank, founded in 1993, has become known as the leading Caribbean American advocacy group in Washington DC and has succeeded in placing the Caribbean American agenda on the national policy stage. She is the visionary behind the successful campaign to declare June as National Caribbean American Heritage Month. ICS is the architect of activities such as the only White House Caribbean American community briefings, the annual Caribbean American Legislative Forum on Capitol Hill and the Caribbean American Leadership Dialogue: Invest Caribbean, which focuses on economic development and investment opportunities in the Caribbean. Dr. Nelson is Chair of the Caribbean American Complete Count Committee for the U.S. 2010 Census. As a result of her leadership in the Caribbean American community, she has received commendations by several members of the US Congress in the Congressional Record and was Grand Marshall in the 2010 West Indian Labor Day Carnival in Brooklyn, New York and most recently was honored by the White House as a Champion of Change. An award-winning writer and performance artist, Claire most recently appeared in Washington, DC’s New Arts Festival as a storyteller. Her play ‘Resident Alien, which received critical acclaim ran for three months in Jamaica and a month in Barbados. Her docudrama ‘Rivers of Blood’ copped Best Director credits in the Washington, DC Source Theatre New Play Festival, and her musical comedy ‘Ten Downing Street’, earned a silver medal in the Jamaica Festival. She has directed folkloric shows, which have been featured at locales such as the Smithsonian, the Kennedy Center and the World Bank Auditorium. She served as Technical Consultant on the Whoopi Goldberg film, Clara’s Heart. She recently premiered a one-woman show called Limbo Like This - Tales of Caribbean Life in America’. She is a regular guest on CaribNation TV and Caribbean Experience on WHUR FM and Caribbean Exchange on WEAA FM.
Host Barbara Perkins currently serves as President of Image Builders Etcetera, a full service Life Coaching, Leadership Development and Political Candidate management firm. As a Life Coach, Mrs. Perkins uses a Client-Centered, Transformational and Evidence Based process in her work with senior level executive women from Corporate America, Not For Profit Agencies, Political Establishments and Faith-Based Groups. In addition to her commitment to helping individuals with reaching and maintaining their personal and professional goals, Mrs. Perkins is a Co-Founder of The Los Angeles African American Women Public Policy Institute, Founder and President of Sisters at the Well, Inc. and Founder and President of The International Black Women’s Public Policy Institute, Inc. (IBWPPI). Her years of expert advice on Mentoring, Leadership in Education, Political and Civic Engagement, Personal and Professional Development and Relationships has branded her as a valued asset and pioneer among coaches. Mrs. Perkins holds a B.A. and M.A. in Human Development and is currently completing a Ph.D. in Human Development and Coaching at The Fielding Graduate University in Santa Barbara. She is a published author of four books: “The Magic of Mentoring Pearls of Wisdom,” “Coaching Yourself on Marriage,” Coaching Yourself on Grief” and “Sisters at the Well: Finding and Living Your Life Lessons.” She is a sought after inspirational speaker, adjunct instructor at Pacific Oaks College in Pasadena, California: Master Coach, at The Master Series for Distinguished Leaders, Washington D.C., and Founding Faculty for The Los Angeles African American Public Policy Institute. Mrs. Perkins contributes her success to her Bahamian upbringing, spiritual principles and supporting husband, retired, Fire Captain Stanley Perkins and their two adult children.
The Caribbean Heritage Organization is pleased to produce CaribbeanLens, the Los Angeles/ Hollywood Caribbean International Entertainment Conference and Film Festival. In this inaugural year, the film festival will honor the works of three award-winning actors as we present Legends of the Caribbean: A Retrospective Look at the Works of Ms. Cicely Tyson, Sir Sidney Poitier and Mr. Harry Belafonte. These three legends with rich Caribbean heritage from the islands of Nevis, the Bahamas and Jamaica respectively, represent who we are as a people and what we offer to the world. We recognize them for their groundbreaking roles and achievement in film and television. However, we honor them for the depth of their personal contributions over many years in breaking down social barriers around race and equality. On every level, the impact of their professional and personal lives is far-reaching and long-lasting. Ms. Cicely Tyson, though born in New York City, her parents were immigrants from the island of Nevis. She is an award-winning film, television and stage actress who is best known for her powerful portrayals of women of color. Ms. Tyson has often spoken about the care she applies in choosing roles that reflect the lives of women of color. In a 1983 interview she states, “I have got to know that I have served some purpose here.” Ms. Tyson can count among her most notable achievements, her performance in Sounder, for which she received an Academy Award nomination in 1972, her role in The Autobiography of Miss Jane Pittman for which she received two Emmy Awards and her stage performance in the play The Trip to Bountiful for which she won a Tony award. She is also known for her appearance in the mini-series Roots and more recently her appearance in the film The Help. Sir Sidney Poitier was born in Miami, Florida but he spent many years of his childhood in The Bahamas. Sidney Poitier is an actor, filmmaker and director whose body of work has such range that it can best described as legendary. Poitier was the first black Academy Award winner for Best Actor for his film performance in Lilies of the Field in 1963. His landmark roles have social, political and historical significance. Consider his roles in Cry the Beloved Country, a drama set in apartheid South Africa, Guess Who’s Coming to Dinner, where he brought the issue of interracial marriage to the fore, and To Sir, with Love with all its racial and socioeconomic overtones to name a few. He successfully directed films such as the western Buck and the Preacher in 1972 where he teamed up with Harry Belafonte. His 1974 collaboration with Bill Cosby in the comedy Uptown Saturday Night as well as that with Richard Pryor and Gene Wilder in the comedy Stir Crazy reflects a confident and bold Poitier. Poitier is known for his intelligence and the dignity with which he has always carried himself and for these and many reasons he was given the title Sir Sidney Poitier. As a public servant he represented the Bahamas as its non-resident ambassador to Japan and to UNESCO. Harry Belafonte was born in New York City but is the son of Jamaican parents. This actor, singer and civil rights activist boasts so many talents that when you think of the person you may very well think of all of them at once. In his musical career, he is known for singing traditional folk songs and is particularly recognized for his popular rendition of “The Banana Boat Song (Day-O).” In an interview with the New York Times, Belafonte hearkens back to his Jamaican roots to express his connection to the song by saying, ‘It’s a song about my father, my mother, my uncles, the men and women who toil in the banana fields, the cane fields of Jamaica.” Belafonte starred in critically acclaimed films such as Carmen Jones, Buck and the Preacher and Uptown Saturday Night. Mr. Belafonte has a distinguished record in as a civil-rights activist and humanitarian record that continues to this day. From marching with Martin Luther King, Jr. to recording with Miriam Makeba, the exiled South African singer, Belafonte’s contribution to the cause of freedom and equality in the United States and abroad is well documented. As we celebrate the 10th anniversary of Caribbean Heritage Organization’s salute to Hollywood, we are pleased to raise the curtain and welcome our legends Ms Cicely Tyson, Sir Sidney Poitier and Harry Belafonte to the stage of the inaugural event of CaribbeanLens Entertainment Conference and Film Festival 2015!
Karen Sharpe Kramer Karen Kramer was born Karen Kaye Sharpe in San Antonio, Texas. She is a film and television actress, producer and the wife of the late legendary producer/director Stanley Kramer. In 1952, the then Sharpe appeared in Stanley Kramer’s production of The Sniper. She spoke three lines in the film while sitting on a drugstore stool and did not personally meet Kramer at that time. She was later cast in many roles including the director William A. Wellman 1954 Warner Bros. airline disaster film The High and the Mighty, where Sharpe played Nell Buck, a young bride who overcomes fear of death through passion for her new husband, Milo, played by John Smith. Her performance in The High and the Mighty garnered her the 1954 Golden Globe Award for “New Star of the Year.” It was not until she appeared in Jerry Lewis’ 1964 film, The Disorderly Orderly, that she met Stanley Kramer, who was also directing Ship of Fools on the Paramount Studios lot. They began dating and married on September 1, 1966. She stopped acting to devote full-time to her family, including two children, and to serve as assistant to her husband in the film industry. Sharpe maintains the Stanley Kramer Library. She established the Stanley Kramer Award at the Producer’s Guild and the Stanley Kramer Fellowship Award in Directing through the University of California, Los Angeles. Both designations honor the works of socially conscious young filmmakers. Katharine Kramer Katharine “Kat” Kramer founded Kat Kramer’s Films That Change the World to showcase motion pictures that raise awareness about important social issues. In so doing, she is following in the footsteps of her late father, the legendary producer/director Stanley Kramer, who was known for taking artistic and financial chances by making movies about controversial subjects. Recently, Ms. Kramer premiered the powerful new documentary Teach Your Children Well, which deals with the growing problem of bullying in schools. Previous selections in her screening series have included The Cove, which exposed the slaughter of dolphins in Japan; Elephants and Man: A Litany of Tragedy, about the suffering of elephants in captivity; and Barbra Streisand’s Yentl, which focused attention on women’s equality, and was used as a springboard for a discussion about the widespread sexual abuse of women in the Congo. As an actress, Ms. Kramer has appeared on stage and screen. She has starred in two popular one-woman shows, The Colors of Myself and Kriss Krossing and won awards for her roles as Helen Keller in The Miracle Worker and Anne Frank in The Diary
of Anne Frank. She has also appeared in such films as Hollywood Dreams, Going Shopping, What Just Happened and, recently, Little Fockers. She will also be seen in the upcoming film Katie Q, with Karen Black, Paul Sand and Zack Norman. As a singer, Ms. Kramer is recording Gemstone, an album of Mick Jagger love songs, each as a duet with a different artist who has previously worked with Sir Mick. As a producer, she is developing a web series about the making of her album, titled My Duet with Mick. Kat has performed special Tributes twice for the Legendary Lily Tomlin. Kramer served on the Dais and opened the program at the Pacific Pioneers Broadcaster’s Awards in February 2012 honoring Tomlin.Kat received a standing ovation with a special musical salute to her mentor with the original parody “Dear Lily Tomlin.” She most recently sang a heartfelt rendition of “Bless The Beasts And Children” from her father’s landmark film for Tomlin when she was honored with the Hope Award from the PETCO Foundation. Kramer made her Avalon Hollywood debut with LE PETIT CIRQUE for CIRCUS PAWS in front of a star-studded audience that included Lily Tomlin,Susan Sarandon, Lainie Kazan and Stewart Copeland. She has recorded the new re-imagined version of “Bless The Beasts And Children” that will be released as a single for PAWS and animal-rights organizations.Kat also performed a humorous kitsch version of the song for the PAWS/ LA Fundraiser sponsored by Wells Fargo and the PETCO. Kat previously received the “Compassion Award” from the Braveheart Women and recently sold-out her first workshop with “Meet The Biz” titled “An Evening With Kat Kramer.” She is set to launch “An Evening With A Trailblazer” series along with “Meet The Biz.” She performed a stand-up routine with at Hard Rock Hollywood to Benefit “Comedy For Caleb” and Kat has been a presenter for LA Comedy Awards twice.She was also a celebrity judge for the LA Music Awards.Kramer was most recently named Entertainer of the Year by the LA Comedy Awards. As a stage actress, Kat has played the classic roles and won awards as Helen Keller in “The Miracle Worker,” Anne Frank in “The Diary Of Anne Frank,” Estella in “Great Expectations,” Lisa in “David and Lisa,” and Saint Joan in “The Lark.” Ms. Kramer has headlined at awards shows and galas for such luminaries as Robert De Niro, Joe Pesci, and Shirley MacLaine. Ms. Kramer who is the Godchild/Namesake of screen icon the late Katharine Hepburn, proudly serves as the West Coast representative of the Katharine Hepburn Cultural Arts Center. A former Miss Golden Globe, Kat resides in Los Angeles.
Guess Who’s Coming to Dinner Starring: Sidney Poitier (The Bahamas) Director: Stanley Kramer Producer: Stanley Kramer Screenplay: William Rose Release Date: December 11, 1967 Genre: Drama Run Time: 108 Mins. The film tells the story of Joanna “Joey” Drayton (Katharine Houghton), a young white woman who has had a whirlwind romance with Dr. John Prentice (Sidney Poitier), a young, idealistic black physician she met while in Hawaii.
The Autobiography of Miss Jane Pittman Starring: Ms. Cicley Tyson (St. Kitts/Nevis) Director: John Korty Screenplay: Tracy Keenan Wynn Novel: Ernest J. Gaines Release Date: January 31, 1974 Genre: Drama Run time: 110 Mins. Cicely Tyson is magnificent as both the young and aged Miss Jane Pittman in this small screen depiction of Ernest Gaines’ story of a black woman in the South who was born into slavery in the 1850s and lives to become a part of the civil rights movement in the 1960s. Island In The Sun Starring: Harry Belafonte (Jamaica) Director: Robert Rossen Producer: Darryl F. Zanuck Screenplay: Alfred Hayes Novel: Alec Waugh Release Date: June 12, 1957 Genre: Drama/Romance Run time: 119 Mins. Harry Belafonte and an ensemble cast that included Joan Collins and Dorothy Dandridge bring to life this Alex Waugh novel about race relations and interracial romance set in the fictitious island of Santa Marta. The film was primarily shot in the spice island of Grenada.movement in the 1960s.
The Gift Everlasting (Jamaica) Starring: Andrew Jones, Vanesa Clarke Co-Starring: Nicholas Amore, Judith Falloon-Reid, Arthur Allen, Kayla Wilson, Venessa Watson & Vennecia Francis Director 1: Judith Falloon-Reid Director 2: Andrew Jones Producer: Michael B. Brown, BarriVision Films Screenwriter: Judith Falloon-Reid Editor: Michael B. Brown Cinematographer: Michael B. Brown Sound: BarriVision Films Genre: Inspirational/Drama Running time: 85 mins. Set in Kingston, Jamaica, The Gift Everlasting explores the dynamics of the Mongrove family during the 20th anniversary of the husband and wife, James and Joan Mongrove. The extravagant celebrations planned to celebrate the milestone is a farce because the couple has drifted apart and the once cohesive family is now in turmoil. James is a workaholic who provides very well for his family, materially, but is emotionally distant. His wife, Joan, the home maker, has no material needs but is starved for affection and attention. The children, Toni (18) and Casey (16) are aware that the family is in trouble but are unsure of how to deal with it. Toni is concerned and wants to do her part to stabilize the family. Casey, however, is more self-centered and prepared to let the chips fall where they may as long as her standard of living is not compromised. As the plot unfolds it exposes the effects of neglect and misplaced priorities on the family as both parents seek consolation and comfort from all the wrong places. Hours before the big event, things take a dramatically wrong turn, threatening the success of the evening’s event and the future of the entire family. Yuremein Homeland (St. Vincent & the Grenadines) Andrea E. Leland – Director, Producer, Camera (USVI) Tom Shepard – Editor, Consulting Producer Fabian Guerra – Camera Cadrin Gill, MD – Consulting Producer Empress Modupe Olufunmi-Jacobs – Consulting Producer Rhodee Castillo – Contributing Musician Genre: Documentary, running time 50 mins. Resistance, Rupture and Repair: The Caribs of St. Vincent in the Caribbean An untold history of the indigenous caribs on St. Vincent: their near extermination and exile by the British 200 years ago, and return of some in the Diaspora to reconnect with those left behind. A powerful, untold story of Caribbean Resistance, Rupture and Repair in postcolonial St. Vincent. yurumeinproject.com
Footprints (Grenada) Director: Barry Collymore ( Grenada) Director 2: Princess Donelan Producer: Barry Collymore Editor: Iscah Straker Cinematographer: Iscah Straker Sound: Kerron Lessemy Executive Producer: Colour Bar Media Genre: Documentary, runtime 50 mins. Footprints is a Documentary about Grenada’s journey to its first Olympic Medal and about a Grenadian teenager named Kirani James, who beat the rest of the world in 43.94 seconds. Footprints is set against a backdrop of very difficult times for the island. Kirani triumphed at a time when unemployment was at its highest and the economy of this beautiful island nation was going through one of its most difficult periods. Filmed primarily in Kirani’s hometown of Gouyave, a fishing village on Grenada’s west coast, the film captures the excitement as it builds throughout the island and the celebrations and spontaneous “Carnival” that erupted when Kirani crossed the finish line ahead of his competitors. Grand Gesture (USA) Directed by Dana Verde (Jamaica & Cuba) Produced by Dana Verde & Alfred E. Rutherford Genre: Romantic Comedy/Drama, running time 65 mins. Craig is ready for love, the problem is the one that he wants to love is the one that got away. Determined to win her back he makes a GRAND GESTURE but it doesn’t convince her. Still led by the belief that she is the “one”, he gives it one last try and invites his lady love to meet him at a local cafe in Harlem, NYC. He figures if she shows up then he still has a chance, but if she doesn’t then it’s over. As he waits for her to meet him with plans to sweep her off her feet, random locals at the cafe support and criticize his quest for true love. Home Again (Canada/Toronto) Director: Sudz Sutherland Producer: Jennifer Holness Producer: Don Carmody & Anita Lee Principal Cast: Tatyana Ali, Lyriq Bent, Stephan James, C.C.H. Pounder, Richard Chevolleau, Fefe Dobson Genre: Drama Running time: 104 mins A searing drama in the vein of City of God, Home Again tells the story of three young people deported ‘home’ to Jamaica after being raised abroad since infancy. Once landed in Kingston and without a compass of any kind, each of the characters embarks on a journey that pushes their endurance beyond measure and forces them to discover who they truly are. On the most fundamental level, Home Again asks the question, “How would you survive?” hungryeyes.ca
Deal With It (The Netherlands/Aruba) Director: Shamira Raphaela Producer: De Haaien Genre: Documentary Language: Papiamento spoken (Aruba/Curacao), English Subtitle Running time: 58 Mins. In this intimate portrait, we enter the chaotic and colorful world of Shamira’s family. Her dad Pempy, has been addicted to heroin and crack for more than thirty years and has a long criminal record. Now that he is getting older, his lifestyle is taking a toll on him and his condition worsening. Simultaneously his son Andy, Shamira’s brother, is following in his father’s footsteps. He too seems to be caught up in a life of crime and drugs. But they both counter their seemingly desperate situation with lots of resilience and humor. Shamira has an ambiguous relationship with both men and when tragedy struck in Shamira’s personal life, it unfolds the way she herself has been affected by the vicious circle trapping her father and brother. A raw and personal film about destructive family patterns & unconditional love *Papiamento spoken (Aruba/Curacao), English subtitled. dealwith.it Vuelos Prohibidos (Forbidden Flights) (Cuba) Director: Rigoberto López Pego Executive Producer: Danilo León Producer: Rafael Rey Writer: Rigoberto López and Julio Carranza Language: Spanish, English Subtitle Run time: 87min Year: 2015 Monique is a 34 year Parisian with a Cuban father that she doesn’t know. The afternoon she prepares to travel to Havana she meets a Cuban in his 50s who is waiting for the same flight. The flights are canceled by an unexpected storm. That night from the room of a contiguous hotel at the airport, lovers between confessions and feelings will try to share their perspectives of Cuba, traveling among storms of truths, frustrations, doubts and hopes. Poetry is an Island, Derek Walcott (St. Lucia) Director: Ida Does Producer 1: 1 Ida Does Productions Producer 2: Rebecca Roos Productions Genre: Documentary Runtime: 80 mins. Derek Walcott, Literature Nobel Laureate has traveled the world while remaining closely connected to his beloved island St. Lucia. As a poet, playwright, painter and even filmmaker, Derek Walcott has been hymning the Caribbean for over 60 years. This documentary presents an intimate portrait of him, set in his beloved native island St. Lucia. The place he always longs for, when he is taken to far away places by his universally acclaimed work. What moves and inspires this great poet? Who are the people whose lives became poetry through his writings? And how do they experience the gift of language of their friend, their mentor, and their father? This film explores the poetry of Derek Walcott, the landscapes and people that inspire it. The film observes Walcott in places essential to his work and life, and gathers the thoughts of some of his closest childhood friends. Most importantly, this documentary is a celebration of the greatest gift Walcott has given the world: his poetry. walcottfilm.com
Chetan (Che) Kothari Dream Machine Photographer, Director, Producer, Organizer, Manager, Instigator, & Artist, Chetan Kothari affectionately known as “Che” brings an army of energy towards anything he creates. Beginning as a portrait and events photographer in Toronto, Che has had intimate portrait sessions with the likes of Ziggy Marley, Ice Cube of NWA, Chuck D of Public Enemy, Zaki Ibrahim, Common, Cypress Hill, A Tribe Called Quest, Talib Kweli, Dead Prez, Afrika Bambaataa, K’naan, Erykah Badu, Nas, k-os, Shad, and many others as personal work as well as for covers of magazines and publications. Che’s work as a visual artist and creator led him to co-founding Hightop Studio in 2001 with his business partner and long time friend Ryan Paterson. Although Che had ample opportunity to focus solely on photography he knew he had a responsibility to do more. The next step for Che was building a non-profit organization, Manifesto Community Projects, of which he served as the Executive Director for 7 years and now resides as the organizations Chair of the Board of Directors. Manifesto’s mission is to unite, inspire and empower diverse groups of young people through arts & culture. Che also co-founded sister organizations of Manifesto in Kingston, Jamaica and Barbados. Che’s latest pursuit involves managing and supporting the work of musicians - Soca king Machel Montano, rising Reggae star Protoje & young wordsmith/singer Mustafa the Poet – in collaboration with Toronto/Los Angeles based management company Dream Machine. Through all his work and contributions to the cultural landscape of Toronto and the world, he is determined to make a difference in his community in hopes that emerging and established artists will shape and follow his lead. dreammachine.me Andres “Fikir Amlak” Estrada Singer/Producer Andres “Fikir Amlak” Estrada has been professionally transforming the music business with his heartical and rootikal works for over 15 years as a singer/songwriter, multi-instrumentalist (guitar, bass, keys) and recording engineer/producer. In 2005, Andres established Black Lion Sounds, an independent record label based in Santa Cruz, CA that saw the release of several albums in collaboration with groups from Brazil to the Virgin Islands and Puerto Rico. In 2008, Andres’ relation to the music scene was shifting, and he retreated to the hills for a leave of absence from all singing, songwriting and performing, reemerging in 2012. In 2013, Fikir Amlak worked with the Long Beach music production team, Melody Camp, to produce Lea Love’s début EP, “Straight Flexin’.” He also began collaborating with Jah Youth Productions (Hawaii) for a string of singles that were met with positive reviews including “Born To Win”, “Love and Affection” and “Train” which culminated in the 2014 EP “King of Kings.” This was the year when Fikir Amlak first began working with video production companies such as Zoochosis in Venice, CA and currently works as a video/music producer for ArDoMi Media Group based out of Los Angeles, CA. In early 2014, Andres ventured into the Dub Sound System arena working with such veterans as Ras Kush/Black Redemption Sounds (NYC/Japan), King Alpha (UK), Imperial Sound Army (Italy), Blackheart Warriors (San Diego), Inner Standing Sound (Oakland), Green Beats NetLabel (Mexico) and more. Fikir Amlak has had the honor of having had his songs selected by some of the most popular sound systems in Europe such as Jan Shaka, Channel One, Word Sound Power and King Shiloh, to name a few. Fikir Amlak recorded over 100 tracks in 2014 and released 4 singles to vinyl including “Doyen/Bravery” with Imperial Sound Army. He also headlined the “Italions” 2014 Tour alongside Imperial Sound Army throughout Italy and Spain, and has performed in Mexico City, Puerto Rico and Hawaii in the recent years. Fikir Amlak has been featured on the 2015 compilation album, “Be Still and Know” produced by Conscious Riddims (Hawaii), on the 2014 compilation album “United In One Heart” produced by Unidade 76 and the Jah Youth Productions “Indo Riddim” compilation. ardomi.com Omar Grant Omar Grant is an experienced tour manager and A&R executive. He worked directly with Destiny’s Child as a group and all 3 members individually. He is currently an A&R executive Roc Nation. rocnation.com
Film Moderator: Leslie Thurston, Actor
Peter Wise
As a fast talking middle child, growing up in New York City, Leslie always said things like she meant it, and made sure that she was heard. So, it is no surprise that she chose to become an actor.
Peter Wise is a 25-year entertainment industry veteran. After a successful career in acting, Wise decided to combine his eye for talent and experience to become a casting director. In 1990, he launched Peter Wise and Associates which soon became one of the most successful independently owned casting agencies with Wise becoming the most sought after casting director on both the East and West coasts. His extensive list of casting credits for film, television and theater have garnered several awards and accolades from peers.
Performing her self-written monologue in a talent competition: Hal Jackson’s Talented Teens, is where she discovered her passion for the dramatic, the funny, and the art of acting. From New York, Leslie moved to Los Angeles to pursue television and film. So, Hollywood it was but she quickly found herself performing in several plays around town. Then background work, and student films before making her film debut in the feature film: WHAT’S LOVE GOT TO DO WITH IT. That earned her a SAG card. Television and more film roles followed. Leslie is an avid Scrabble player, loves the game of tennis, and dancing all night long. lesliethurston.com Melissa Martinez-Areffi Melissa Martinez-Areffi has been in the entertainment industry for over 20 years. She started in development at Beacon Pictures, working to bring to screen films such as Air Force One, The Hurricane and Bring It On. After taking a break for a few years, she had three children and earned a second Bachelor’s degree in Cinema and Television at California State University Northridge. She began as a location manager ten years ago, working on films such as Emmanuel and the Truth About the Fishes (with Jessica Biel), Glee, Scandal, Marvel’s Agent Carter, Justified and several upcoming projects, including San Andreas, which is airing this summer, and The Player, starring Wesley Snipes, airing on NBC this fall. Melissa also speaks as an expert on autism, and is producing a series of PSA’s based in part on her book co-authored with her husband, Andy Areffi, entitled “Navigating Autism: The Essential Handbook by Parents for Parents.” Michael Chickey Location Manager & Scout Known to his peers as a hard workin’, whip smart location manager with a keen eye and a zest for life, Michael Chickey was recognized as the reigning location professional of 2010 working on the Fox Searchlight feature film, “Our Family Wedding” and such television favorites as “Monk, “Jonas” and the NBCUniversal’s “Outlaw”. He is best known for running a smooth operation, finding distinctive locations, creating detailed aerial overview and writing the occasional strongly worded email. His base camp dumpster placement skills are unparalleled. Most recently Michael has worked on HBO’s “True Detective” and the soonto-be released Bil Productions’ “Brother in Laws. ”Location Manager/Scout michaelchickey.com
Wise was responsible for comprising the cast of “Smoky Joe’s Café” which was nominated for seven Tony Awards and received a Grammy for “Best Musical Show Album.” Wise’s cast selections received rave reviews for their performances that contributed greatly to the production becoming the longest musical revue on Broadway to date. As the casting director of record for the national tour of “Jesus Christ Superstar,” he cast Ted Neely, Carl Anderson, Irene Cara and Dennis DeYoung. In his most recent theatrical production, Wise served dual roles as both casting director and producer for the pre-Broadway workshop of “Car Wash, The Musical: A Norman Whitfield Story.” Prior to that, he received a personal invitation from director Debbie Allen to cast her adaptation of Tennessee Williams’, “Cat on a Hot Tin Roof.” His cast of notable award nominated actors included James Earl Jones, Phylicia Rashad, Terence Howard, Anika Noni Rose and Giancarlo Esposito. Wise is often called upon to lend his expertise as a casting consultant for several critically acclaimed Off Broadway productions, such as “Cheaters, Friends and Lovers, Men Money and Goldiggers.” His regional theater work includes “Ain’t MisBehavin,” “Bigger Than Bubble Gum,” “The Emotion’s Story,” “Sisterella,” “I Love You, You’re Perfect, Now Change” and “Evita.” Recently, Wise expanded his impressive cache of casting accomplishments to include producing for film and television. His television production credits include, “One Love” starring Sheryl Lee Ralph, Mark Curry, Chico Benymon, Carl A Payne, Drew Sidora, Sara E Fletcher and Sherman Hemsley, which became the highest ranking show for the network. Additional television credits include, “Life is Not a Fairy Tale: The Fantasia Barrino Story,” directed by Debbie Allen, for Lifetime Television; “Unpredictable” a television variety special starring Jamie Foxx, for NBC. Additionally Wise has produced several independent films such as “Pastor Shirley,” King James Diner,” “Act Like You Love Me,” “In Mysterious Ways,” working under his Peter Wise and Associates umbrella he casted “Kevin Hart’s, “Let Me Explain,” “Soul Ties,” “Christmas In Compton” and “Somebody’s Child.” Wise was recently recognized by for his outstanding achievements in the entertainment industry with the prestigious NAACP Theatre Spirit Award, Trumpet Award and a Grammy, for the Best Broadway Musical. Last year he launched Peter Wise Actor’s Studio non-profit 501.c3 in North Hollywood, California which he plans to franchise. For more information about the studio please visit, www.PWAStudio.com. For a full list of television and film credits visit MDB.com.
Inspired by her Haitian roots and unusual upbringing in the predominantly immigrant communities surrounding Boston, Prisca Milliance began designing at a very early age. After receiving a BA from Georgetown University in 2005, her childhood passion resurfaced and leads her to the internationally recognized postgraduate program in fashion design at Drexel University. With the very technical knowledge she’s acquired there, Prisca is able to create an imaginative array of colorful yet well-constructed clothing that seeks to unite the past with the future and create a look that ultimately reflects what will remain timeless about great fashion – pure elegance. Her debut line, Mina Tinera aims to make recycling a fashionable alternative by offering 100% kimono silks re-purposed into bustiers and beaded saris transformed into kimonos. At what age did you discover your talent? I was about 6 when I first began making dresses out of tin foil for my Barbie dolls and designing collections for my paper dolls. When did people start to notice your talent? About a year or two later. When my mother realized I was always drawing she enrolled me in a children’s art camp at our local art museum. What were your childhood goals/dreams? I discovered Leonardo da Vinci when I was about 8 years old and have a fascination with him to this day. In my dreams I would live a life dedicated to pursuing knowledge of all sorts. It’s always been difficult for me to pin down 1 thing I’ve always wanted to do because I love to learn new things and I love having the ability to express myself creatively. When did you actively begin to pursue your career? Technically, it didn’t start until I decided to apply to design school while I was working as a librarian in Boston. I had decided to participate in a student fashion showcase at Boston University and realized I’d done a pretty good job even though I’d only had 1 sewing class. But I realized how limited I’d be without a solid technical foundation so I focused on finding a school that was really about teaching students the importance of garment construction. How did you go about doing so? It all happened by chance really. I moved to Boston to work as a librarian so that I would have time to write a novel. I had just graduated with an English degree and had no interest in teaching so to me that was the best alternative. However, when I realized I didn’t have the focus or discipline at that age to do so, I decided to take a sewing class and revive my childhood hobby in order to get my mind off of things. After participating in the student fashion show, my teacher suggested I apply to a fashion grad program and recommended Drexel. I applied and initially was rejected but pushed until I was admitted on the condition that I passed an intensive summer program, which I did. I haven’t stopped designing since. What impact has your place of birth/background had on your career? My background has had a tremendous impact on my work and my career because my work is a direct reflection of who I am and who I am is all about where I’ve been. After living in Haiti for almost a year, I realize that only the resourceful can thrive here because when you don’t have a lot, you have to make something out of nothing. My first collection came
about when I was given the opportunity to show at Caribbean Fashion Week and had no money to buy fabric. What I did have was a small collection of Indian saris I had bought on the internet years ago. Mina Tinera was born as a sustainable brand meant to capture the essence of Caribbean style and miraculously, the saris worked really well with that concept. Furthermore, Haiti has been a great launching pad for my line in terms of the support I’ve gotten given the fact that I’ve started with nothing. Some of the factory owners in particular, the design community, the media. It’s a much smaller and less intimidating environment than New York City and I couldn’t have done what I’m doing now without that support. What is your inspiration? Inspiration is one of the most difficult things to talk about because there are very few things that don’t inspire me. I love music and often times, I find the story or attitude of a collection embedded in a song. I’m also really into history and science so some of my ideas come from that realm. But the shape of a dress can come from a street lamp sometimes. I can see a print when I look at the mountains in Haiti (especially at night). It’s really kind of random and based on instinct and emotional triggers. Who is your favorite designer? Yet another tricky question. But, to really single out the best of the past century, I’d say Madeliene Vionnet, Azzedine Alaia, Geoffrey Beene and Alexander Mcqueen. For all 4, it’s all about innovation in the way that the garments are constructed. They take a very intellectual approach to design which I can really relate to. There’s so much to learn from their work and seeing what they’ve done really pushes me to be as creative as possible in my development. What were/are some of the obstacles you faced (if any)? My obstacles are often due to financial constraints. I originally wanted to apply to grad schools abroad (Paris and Milan) but couldn’t figure out where the funding would come from and wasn’t willing to take out private loans. When I graduated from Drexel with an unreasonable amount of debt, finding work in NYC was incredibly brutal as well and that’s why I made the decision to try doing my own thing in Haiti. What is your greatest accomplishment so far? I recently delivered about 1 dozen dresses from the L’antillaise collection to a local shop. It was my first wholesale account and I’m hoping it leads to more. What advice do you have for upcoming designers? Have faith in your self and confidence in your abilities. Always follow your instincts and focus on developing an outstanding product. Where can we see/purchase your material? L’antillaise is currently being sold at Saga Boutique in Petionville, Haiti. I’m also working on a custom design order page on my website: lantillaisefashion.com Are there any upcoming projects you would like to share with us? I’m currently working on a collection of bustiers for Mina Tinera which I’m hoping to get into some NYC shops by the summer. Is there anything else you would like to share with us concerning your career? Stay tuned to new developments with L’antillaise via our facebook page: https://www. facebook.com/lantillaisefashion Outside of fashion and design, what do you enjoy doing the most? Right now, I have a very unusual affinity for watching competitive cooking on television. But, under normal circumstances, I’m a big music fan and recently dressed up and coming Haitian American jazz singer Melanie Charles for her performance at Haiti Jazz Festival. I love everything from jazz and hip hop to folk and bluegrass.
Yvette Noel-Schure Trailblazer Award
Co-Founder, Schure Media Group Yvette Noel-Schure, a former senior VP of Media at Columbia Records/ Sony Music, established her own publicity and event-planning firm, Schure Media, LLC. (now Schure Media Group) in 2010. Based in New York City and northern New Jersey, the firm signed global superstar Beyoncé as its first client. She helped launch the career of the then-unknown Destiny’s Child in 1998, guiding the group through its 1999 multi-platinum watershed, “The Writing’s On The Wall,” and 2001 smash, “Survivor.” She executed successful press campaigns for each member’s solo albums, including two top-charting gospel releases for Michelle Williams, Grammy-winning releases for Kelly Rowland and international and national tours of every Beyoncé solo album. During a seventeen-year career as a music publicist, Noel-Schure developed press campaigns for a diverse roster of artists, including Mariah Carey, Will smith, Jessica Simpson, Prince, John Legend, Adele, Wyclef Jean, Destiny’s Child and for each of that group’s members: Kelly Rowland, Michelle Williams and Beyoncé, as well as media launches for Maxwell (“BLACKsummers’night”) and Beyoncé’s (“I AM…SASHA FIERCE”). Noel-Schure has played an indispensable role in the multi-platinum careers of Bow Wow, Jessica Simpson, John Legend, among others. She and Columbia Records publicist, Benny Tarantini, convinced Adele to sign with the label just before the US release of her first album, “19.” Today Schure Media Group creates and executes press campaigns for Beyoncé, including the launch of the unprecedented self-titled visual album on December 13, 2013, Iconic international legend Prince and his band 3RDEYEGIRL, Broadway star and former Destiny’s Child member, Michelle Williams, fashion designer Tina Knowles, Sky Blu of LMFAO, singer/songwriter, Amel Larrieux, rapper Lecrae and unsigned, New Jersey-based teen star, Zach Matari. Noel-Schure has folded her passion for others into Schure Media Group with successful social campaigns including World Humanitarian Day 2012 and 2013 with the United Nations and Chime For Change, founded by Gucci, to promote Education, Health and Justice for women and girls everywhere. She worked closely with Chime For Change on the media campaign for The Sound of Change Live, a global concert at Twickenham Stadium in London in 2013 attended by 50,000 people and seen by millions around the world. The line-up included BEYONCÉ | ELLIE GOULDING | FLORENCE + THE MACHINE | HAIM | IGGY AZALEA | JAY Z | JENNIFER LOPEZ | JESSIE J | JOHN LEGEND | LAURA PAUSINI | MARY J. BLIGE | RITA ORA | SIMON LE BON and TIMBALAND. Yvette started her business career started as a journalist. In 1985, Noel-Schure joined the staff of Black Beat Magazine where she served as editor until moving to Columbia Records as Director, Media in 1993. In 1997, she was named Senior Director, Media. Before leaving Columbia Records in 2010 to open Schure Media Group, she served as the department head for Columbia Records Media, handling press for every genre. An immigrant from the Caribbean island of Grenada, Yvette Noel-Schure holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in journalism from the City College of New York. She is the mother of three and has been married to David Schure for over three decades. schuremediagroup.com
Dawnn Lewis Heritage Award
Actress, Award-Winning Singer & Songwriter and Producer. Dawnn Lewis is a multitalented and multifaceted individual. Born in Brooklyn, New York, of Guyanese parents, Dawnn is an NAACP & Trumpet Award winner, a Grammy Awardwinning singer, multiple BMI & ASCAP Award-winning songwriter, film actor and a Series TV creator/producer (Black Jaq) for ABC. She’s now recurring on the hit TV shows MAJOR CRIMES & BETTER CALL SAUL, and as the narrative voice for BET’s bio-series BEING. Dawnn recently wrapped production on the feature film THE REVIVAL, written & produced by acclaimed actor Harry Lennix and guest starred in Survivor’s Remorse, a new series produced by NBA star, LeBron James & Tom Werner. She stars in the recently released films: The Divorce, Megachurch Murder, A Lesson In Romance & Two In. Dawnn can be heard giving voice to several characters: “LaBarbara” in Futurama, “Mrs. Hanshaw” in SOPHIA THE FIRST, “Granny McStuffins” in Doc Mcstuffins, as well as a variety of characters in the series TURBO & Disney/Pixar’s mega hit films Monsters University and Inside Out. She stars in the groundbreaking John Avnet/Rodrigo Garcia short film series WIGS, in JENNIFER, written and directed by Mykelti Williamson, and also composed and performed some of the film’s underscore music. Other film & TV credits include: Let It Shine, The Poof Point (also contributed to score), I’m Gonna Git U Sucka, Dreamgirls, Dino Time, Strange Frame, Castle, Days Of Our Lives, One Tree Hill, Secret Life Of The American Teenager, Any Day Now, The Cleveland Show, The Life & Times Of Tim, Handy Manny, King Of The Hill, The Boondocks, The X-Men, Spiderman, Rick & Morty. Proudly On The Hit Tv Shows A Different World (composer of shows theme song) & Hangin’ With Mr. Cooper (sang theme). Dawnn also starred in “NYC Encore’s” Broadway presentation of The Wiz ; created the role of, and won best actress: Fred Award (Los Angeles) and nominated for the 2007 best actress: Suzi Award (Atlanta), for her “knock your socks off!” performance in the world premiere of the Broadway hit “Sister Act: The Musical” as Deloris Van Cartier. Her record label, Morning Jewel Music, released her successful solo CD Worth Waiting For, & partnered with & performed on “Donny McCullough & Friends: Candles In The Window.” Dawnn’s concert schedule includes sold out performances at H.O.M.E in Beverly Hills, the Hands For Hope Jazz Festival and a sold out concert in the Cayman Islands for The CAYMAN HEART FUND. She’s recorded with or composed for Everett Harp, Patrice Rushen, Vanessa Williams, Nancy Wilson, Take 6, Weyman Tisdale, Grover Washington Jr., Quincy Jones, Michael Ward & Tom Scott (to name a few). She’s served the last seven and half years on the National Advisory Board of the National Center For Civil & Human Rights Museum, & four terms on the SAG National Board of Directors, participating in its merger with AFTRA, while serving all our years as the National Co-Chair & Los Angeles Chair of the SAG now SAG-AFTRA Singers Committee. Dawnn also teaches Master Classes, mentors youth across the country, gives motivational lectures and lends her support to: EMPOWHER, The United Negro College Fund; Los Angeles Urban League, American Cancer Society; The March of Dimes; Youth Entertainment Studios; the Hall of Fame Foundation; Habitat For Humanity; The United States Conference on AIDS; The K.I.S. Foundation for Sickle Cell Disease; Artists For A New South Africa; Campfire Boys and Girls; The NBA/WNBA and other important causes. Look for more detailed information about Dawnn on her Web site DAWNNLEWIS.com FaceBook: Dawnn Lewis Official Fan Page Twitter: @dawnn_lewis
Dr. Henri R. Ford Humanitarian Award
Vice-President & Chief of Surgery, Children’s Hospital Los Angeles Henri R. Ford, M.D. is vice president and chief of surgery at Children’s Hospital Los Angeles (CHLA), Vice-Dean of Medical Education, Professor and Vice-chair for clinical affairs in the Department of Surgery and at the Keck School of Medicine of the University of Southern California. Dr. Ford was professor and chief of the Division of Pediatric Surgery and surgeon-in-chief at Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh and the University Of Pittsburgh School Of Medicine prior to joining CHLA in January 2005. He is also a member of the Executive Leadership Team and the medical executive committee of CHLA. As surgeon-in-chief and vice president for Surgical and Perioperative Services, he oversees the entire perioperative services area at CHLA. Under his leadership, CHLA has developed a robust, state of the art minimally invasive surgery program. He served on the Board of Trustees of Princeton University (2010- 2014) and serves on the Harvard Medical School Global Health Advisory Council (2011 – present). As a professor in the Department of Surgery at the Keck School of Medicine, he is an important role model for young physicians and medical students. As the Vice Dean for Medical Education at the Keck School, Dr. Ford advances the medical school’s educational mission by promoting excellence in medical education as one of its highest priorities. Dr. Ford recently led a very successful accreditation visit for the MD program which resulted in the maximum eight-year, full accreditation from the Liaison Committee on Medical Education (LCME), the best results achieved since a 10-year accreditation was granted in 1981. Dr. Ford’s current priorities include revising the Year III/IV medical student curriculum; strengthening research opportunities for medical students; and developing new sources of funding for medical student scholarships. Dr. Ford has demonstrated “…truly exceptional leadership…” in pediatric surgery and has conducted the definitive studies on pediatric trauma in the United States and his investigative studies have generated new insights into the pathogenesis of necrotizing enterocolitis, the most common and the most lethal disorder affecting the gastrointestinal tract of newborn infants. He is the author of more than 300 publications, book chapters, invited manuscripts, abstracts and presentations and the recipients of many awards and has been active on many local and national professional and scientific committees. Dr. Ford was born in Haiti and spent his early years in Port-au-Prince. His father was a preacher who spoke out against inequality in Haitian society. When Dr. Ford was 13 years old, he fled with his family from the government of Papa Doc Duvalier, settling among the Haitian community in Brooklyn, New York. He has made and continues to make and lead many medical humanitarian trips to Haiti before and after the 2010 earthquake, including most recently when Dr. Ford led the medical team that performed the first ever separation of conjoined twins in Haiti.
Egbert Perry Visionary Award
Chairman & CEO, The Integral Group and Chairman of the Board Fannie Mae Egbert L. J. Perry is the Chairman & Chief Executive Officer of The Integral Group LLC (“Integral”). In this role, he provides the strategic vision and direction for the company and chairs the Senior Management Committee comprised of all members of the executive management team. He co-founded the company in January 1993 with a mission to “create value in cities and (re)build the fabric of communities.” Pursuit of that mission has made the company a premier global provider of sustainable real estate, facility and infrastructure solutions. The company provides community development, commercial real estate development, investment management, program management, construction and property management services in mature and emerging markets across the United States and internationally. The company and Mr. Perry have received numerous awards, and are regarded nationally as innovators in the field of urban development and revitalization. As one of the pioneers of the urban mixed-income, mixed-use community revitalization model integrating housing, education reform and human services, they are often called on for their expertise in implementing public-private partnerships and sustainable development solutions that foster “responsible” community development. In addition to its strong focus on holistic community development, the company is active in the development of urban infill and transit-oriented mixed-use projects. Today, with a track record of over $1 billion of real estate developments and investments, the firm is a diversified, 300-person, organization with projects in about 14 markets in the mid-Atlantic, Southeast and western regions of the United States, as well as the Caribbean. A real estate, construction and community development professional since 1979, Perry has developed and/ or built most project types, including residential, office, retail, and institutional and mixed use projects. Prior to founding Integral, he spent thirteen years helping to build an Atlanta-based construction and real estate company into the nation’s 3rd largest African-American owned business and largest African-American owned General Contractor in 1992, increasing its annual revenues from about $12 million to approximately $200 million. An honors graduate of the University of Pennsylvania, Perry received both Bachelor of Science (’76) and Master of Science degrees (’79) in Civil Engineering from the University’s Towne School, and a Master of Business Administration degree with majors in Finance and Accounting (’78) from its Wharton School. In 1990, he was elected as the eleventh graduate in 250 years to be named to the “Gallery of Distinguished Engineering Alumni” of the University’s Engineering School. In 2010, he was selected by REIAC and Georgia State University for induction into the Hall of Distinction for Real Estate, the highest honor awarded to Developers in the Atlanta real estate community and in 2014 was named Chairman of the Board of the Federal National Mortgage Association (Fannie Mae). Mr. Perry was born on the island of Antigua. integral-online.com
Caiphus Moore
Caiphus Moore is a Trinidadian American artist who currently resides in Oakland, California. He has spent most of his professional artistic career creating artwork for the video game industry and currently works as a Senior Artist for Electronic Arts (EA). A painting graduate of the Maryland Institute, College of Art, Caiphus has always been inspired by the natural human form. He creates on a variety of mediums; from traditional canvas to 3d sculpting. His current focus is to create a synergy between his love of fine art, gaming and multimedia. caiphus.com
TalithaWatkins Corporate Leadership Award
Talitha Mahadeo Watkins was named Vice President of Multicultural Marketing in August 2010. In her role Watkins works across all marketing divisions to enrich outreach efforts of African-American audiences for titles across the Universal slate. She works directly with the publicity, media, digital, creative, research, and partnerships divisions to customize existing and develop new strategies, marketing and outreach efforts for African-American moviegoers. Since joining Universal Pictures, Talitha has worked on over 50 titles including the multicultural blockbusters FAST FIVE, FAST & FURIOUS 6 and FURIOUS 7. She has also been instrumental in increasing the production of African-American films such as the box office success, THE BEST MAN HOLIDAY and record-breaking RIDE ALONG, a number one movie three weeks in a row. Prior to joining Universal Pictures, Watkins worked with Telepictures Productions Inc. where she served as Assistant General Manager responsible for overseeing operations, sales and marketing for five female-focused digital properties in the Warner Bros. portfolio including Ellentv.com, Extratv.com, TyraShow.com, Momlogic.com and BonnieHunt.com. Previously, Watkins served in several marketing positions with SiTV (now NuvoTV), the Latino and multicultural network; Gemstar-TV Guide; Lifetime Entertainment Services; and A&E Television Networks. Born “under the clock� at University Hospital in Kingston, Jamaica, Watkins immigrated to the United States in 1985. She holds a B.B.A. in Marketing from the Fox School of Business at Temple University. She lives in Los Angeles, CA with her daughter Selah.
The Caribbean Island with French Flair, The Isle of Flowers, The Rum Capital of the World, The Isle of the Famed Poet Aimé Césaire; Martinique ranks among the most alluring and enchanting destinations in the world. With weekly non-stop service from the US, including San Juan and a booming cruise industry, Martinique is now a few hours away! Experience the rich culture, unique gastronomy, great shopping and European Standard infrastructures, not to forget the island‘s beautifully unspoiled beaches, volcanic peaks, rain forests, 80+ miles of hiking trails and waterfalls. It is this special combination of modern world conveniences, pristine nature, and rich heritage that has earned Martinique several notable distinctions including being named “Must-Visit” destination for 2015 by Caribbean Journal, Best Caribbean Island for Romance by Business Insider and Ranked in the 2015 Top 5 in the Best Romantic Island in the Caribbean by USA Today. The Bay of Fort-de-France, which fronts Martinique’s charming capital city, was also introduced into the “Club of the Most Beautiful Bays in the World.” A special place with so much to offer. Martinique, c’est Magnifique ! Capital City – Fort-de-France Size – 436 square miles (50 miles long and 22 miles across at its widest point), or 1,128 square kilometers Population –386,486 Currency – Euro Languages – French, Creole and English Electricity – Voltage is 220 AC. Visitors traveling with hair dryers, electric shavers and other appliances made in the U.S. will require power adapters. Climate – Temperatures average 79°F with two regular alternating wind currents (les Alizés) keeping the island cool. There is only about a 5° difference between average summer and winter temperatures. Banks – Banks in the capital are generally open from 7:30 a.m. to noon and from 2:30 to 4:30 p.m. weekdays.
Galerie Lakaye opened in 1990 and quickly became the premiere gallery of contemporary Haitian, Caribbean and ethnic fine art on the west coast. Operating out of a private Craftsman house in Hollywood, California, the gallery’s unique blend of emerging and museum-stature artists has led to alliances with venerable institutions, including Fowler Museum at UCLA and the Los Angeles Department of Cultural Affairs. The gallery has been featured in Los Angeles Times, Vanity Fair, Bon Appetit, In Style magazines and more. Galerie Lakaye also hosts regular artist salons in an effort to support and promote the arts and the artist community at the root level. Carine Fabius, a Haitian native, is director of Galerie Lakaye. She is also a freelance curator of museum exhibitions featuring painting, sculpture, photography, video and multimedia installations. Carine is the published author of five books, and she is a regular blogger on Huffington Post on issues relating to arts, culture and lifestyle.
V.S. Russell
Paul Beaubrun
URIM7 Band
Born into Haitian musical royalty, Paul Beaubrun seemed destined for a life on stage, but it wasn’t until forming Zing Experience that he realized the medium through which he would broadcast his own message to the masses. Since 2006, he has been sharing his roots rock sound, overlaid with uplifting lyrics, with audiences all around the world.
URIM7 Band from Kingston, Jamaica has been creating quite a stir locally and internationally for their beautiful voices and soothing harmonies. This band is a unique team of singers and musicians graduates of the Edna Manley School of Music, University of the West Indies (UWI) and University of Technology (UTECH) Jamaica.
Paul has gained international and commercial appeal and has performed in Europe, the Caribbean, South America, Canada and the U.S, making him one of the few artists out of Haiti that has been able to garner worldwide success. In February 2011, Paul received the prestigious Unesco-Aschberg Artist in Residency Scholarship in Montreal, Canada where he headlined the annual Musique Multi-Montreal Festival. In 2012 he released his first album with his band entitled Project Haiti at Webster Hall in NYC, garnering rave reviews and subsequently used in three internationally distributed films, “The Road to Fondwa”, “Une Memoire Vodou”, and “Bondye Bon”. Paul has recently released an acoustic album on February 19 titled Vilnerab. He is currently working on a solo English album with Zing Experience as well as a collaborative work with musician/producer Jerry Jean. He is an active board member for Artists Institute / Artists for Peace www. artistsinstitute.org, using his knowledge as well as performing in order to raise awareness for young artists from his native Haiti. He has also recently become an ambassador for Books over Bombs, a non-profit organization which raises awareness and funds for children’s education in refugee camps.
The band launched their debut album “The Assignment” in November of 2013, which features 15 exquisite tracks of gospel, reggae, pop, jazz and R&B, that is currently on daily rotation on Jamaica local radio. On a recent tour of South Florida, the band played in a series of concerts that culminated with performances at Grace Jamaica Jerk Festival at Markham Park, Sunrise. The group recent performances include the annual Jamaica Youth for Christ Genesis concert on New Year’s Day, one of the highlighted performers at “A Betta Tomorrow” concert in Mandela Park, Half Way Tree, Jamaica as well as a nomination by the Jamaica Reggae Industry Association (JaRIA) to perform at the Reggae Praise, Gospel Concert Ranny Williams Center on February 8, 2015. The group continues to excel with more recent performances at the Rainforest Seafood Family Fun day & Concert, Montego Bay and the Earth Hour Acoustic Concert, in Kingston. As Jamaicans continue to excel in music reflecting their native culture, artistes such as URIM7 group will join suit. In addition to representing their island home, they will have the distinct honor and pleasure of also presenting music in a manner that brings joy and radiates light and with their distinct new sound!
Born in Jamaica, and raised to a single parent in the hills of St. Ann, V.S. Russell discovered his love for acting at an early age. After high school he enrolled in the performingarts program at the Excelsior Community College in Kingston, Jamaica. In 2004 he was accepted to the University of South Carolina after a one- year study program in acting at the Community College of Philadelphia where he appeared as Asagai in Lorraine Hansberry’s, “A Raisin in the Sun.” Russell has appeared in a number of films to include A Thousand Words, Death Sentence, I Love You, Man. Dance Flick, Seven Pounds and most recently in Sean Michael Smith’s Thunder Chance. His television credits include Boston Legal, Raising the Bar as well as a recurring role on Central Productions’ Chocolate News. V.S. Russell is also an author, his first publication, Bre’r Anancy and the Magic Pot, a children’s book based on the African spider God Anancy was published in 2012 to commemorate Jamaica’s 50th year of Independence. In this book Russell share his admiration and respect for Jamaican folklore and teaches kids about the unintended consequences of greed and temptation. In his free time, Russell enjoys cooking and painting. When asked how he would describe the field of theatre that he treasures so much, he replied, “…theatre is a sport that requires hard work, determination and lasting dedication.” With this in mind and knowing the demands of the field is what keeps Russell grounded and sets him apart from his peers.
booksoverbombs.org.
Micheline St. Louis Micheline St. Louis was born in Haiti and currently lives in Los Angeles, California. Her profession is that of a Fashion Designer—her first love. Among her many other interests are writing, acting, singing and dancing. She currently leads a band call “Nyanza and The Caribbean Breeze” and performs with the band’s dance group, The Caribbean Breeze Dancers. The Caribbean Breeze Dancers were established in 2010 and they have performed at various locations in Los Angeles and elsewhere. The dance members vary; Keeawnya Cole, Daniela Kyle and Micheline St. Louis have been with the group since its inception. The dance group specializes in performing Haitian, Caribbean and Afro-Caribbean dances, music and rhythms.
Production Executive Producer Marva Griffiths Herman
Social Media Sarah Gaskin Jennifer Griffiths
Special Acknowledgement to Our Honorary Host Committee
Co-Producers Claire Nelson, Ph.D. Audrey Mitchell
Photography Antonio Crutchley antonioandpaulacrutchley.com
Dean Garfield, Esq President & CEO Information Technology Industry Council
Creative Director Jody Gilbert- kolorgraphix
Art Exhibit Galerie Lakaye
Logan Rose, MD
Director/Stage Manager Shorron Levy
Hosts Constantine Nsizoa Jackie Watson Michelle McKnight Pat Gardiner Saskia Thompson Lester Gardiner Ebony Jones Marva Lewis Elaine Chung
Consulting Director Ina Bruce Abdrabu Production Assistants Jamie Mann Ian Griffiths David Herman Javed Mitchell Renaldo Downer Event Manager Audrey Mitchell VIP Coordinator Denise Gardiner VIP Assistant Anna Grier Talent/Volunteers Coordinator Denise Gardiner Press Paula Crutchley Pearline Gordon Jennifer Griffiths Writer/Editor Karlene N. Ball
Legal O’Melveny & Myers, Los Angeles Thank you: Mar Yvette KTTV Los Angeles Nic Simpson Kimberly King-Burns Shean England Richard Piles Dorothy McLeod – Jamaica Cultural Alliance Ramona Orozco, Director, Marinello Schools of Beauty, West L.A. Campus
Hon. Cadrin E. Gill, MD Honorary Consul General of St. Vincent & the Grenadines to Los Angeles Hon. Roland H. Yorke Consul General of Belize to Los Angeles Sponsors Delta Airlines Grenada Film Commission Antigua Tourism Authority Grenada Tourism Authority Supporters The Islands of the Bahamas Bay View Eco Resort & Spa Spanish Court Hotel Porto’s Bakery Sattdown Jamaican Grill