Guyanese nationals are by far some of the most accomplished immigrants living in New York. They have worked hard, played by the rules, and achieved the American dream.
As such, five compatriots whose contributions continue to inspire generations to come were honored on March 20 for their outstanding achievements at the 2025 Caribbean Life Impact Awards Gala among scores of other Caribbeans who enjoyed an exceptional evening of celebration at Terrace on the Park in Queens.
During a cocktail hour and Q&A with curator Amanda Tarley, Doris Rodney, owner of the Hills Restaurant and Bar in Brooklyn, said, “My passion is all about cooking, creating, and inventing food for the soul.” She added that it’s a joy to see the expressions on the faces of patrons when they come into her restaurant to be served.
She shared that the restaurant business is tiresome, but it’s all about not giving up and fighting. She said it’s vitally important to teach “your children the business; they too will get tired, but she insists the key is never giving up, just keep moving with lots of tenacity,” said Rodney, who migrated to America thirty-five years ago and ultimately worked hard and determinedly opened her first business.
She also owns Waterfall Lounge BK. Both establishments are meeting spots for nationals, locals, and visitors who come to eat and socialize.
Antoine B. Craigwell, president & CEO of the nonprofit Depressed Black Gay Men, Inc., is passionate about ending suicide in Guyana through mental health workshops.
He shared that Guyana has one of the highest suicide rates, and he has dedicated himself to bringing awareness about the illness.
“I shared the basic information about spotting symptoms of mental illness for suicide prevention. There were approximately three suicides when I was in Guyana. It is very hard,” said Craigwell, who produced the documentary “You Are Not Alone and contributed to Headcase – an Anthology of LGBTQ Writers and Artists on Mental Health and Wellness.
Captain Haslyn Anson Peters, who came from humble beginnings and grew up in Georgetown, is an airline pilot with JetBlue Airways and founder of Harpe Eagles Pathways, a youth aviation initiative program that advises others to strive for excellence.
The aviator, whose journey began as a scout leader and Interact Club member and later led the Joshua Generation Youth Organization, is dedicated to mentoring young people.
Peters participated in Operation Raleigh, an international expedition program, and served in the Guyana Defence Force, where he earned a government scholarship for flight training. After migrating to the United States, he joined the New York Army National Guard’s Aviation Unit and became a member of the organization of Black Airline Pilots (OBAP) to inspire young people of color to pursue aviation careers.
Peters’ inaugural JetBlue flight to Guyana showcased his inspiring journey, gaining recognition in various media outlets. He also enjoys the prestige of the United States Gold Standard Presidential Award. Additionally, he collaborates with CARICOM to deliver aviation career presentations in Guyana and supports his alma mater through annual career fairs.
“I am dedicated to mentoring young people, both in groups and individually, in aviation and personal achievement that continues to shape future aviators and leaders,” said Peters, who added that he was humbled to be honored.
Rowtas “Roger” Singh, Emblem Health’s community engagement specialist, passionately spoke about working closely with community faith-based organizations. He said he is honored to be working with a team headed by Ann-Marie Adamson-Serieux, a Guyanese national.
Singh, a US Air Force veteran with 23 years of distinguished service, works with elected officials and district attorneys to promote healthy living.
He spoke of keeping the Caribbean community healthy through education in the boroughs, Nassau, and Suffolk counties.
Singh says the best advice he has been given was from his father, a former police inspector who said, “Son, show me your friends, and I’ll tell you who you are. I listened to him, and it paid off.”
“I came to America at the age of nine, joined the Air Force at age 17, and served for 23 years,” said the specialist who also served as a Medical Technician and Air Transportation Craftsman and participated in vital operations, including Enduring Freedom, Iraqi Freedom, and Haiti relief efforts.
The jovial and very animated Singh, who has over 30 years of experience in healthcare, now dedicates himself to supporting New York City’s Caribbean community. He skillfully builds relationships with elected officials like U.S. Rep. Hakeem Jeffries and Mayor Eric Adams to create impactful community programs.
Singh organizes numerous health fairs and cultural events and has earned widespread accolades for his dedication and commitment. He is also a member of Toastmasters International and a graduate of the Stanford Diabetes Self-Management Program and actively pursues personal and professional development.
Singh is married to Zabeeda for 28 years, with whom he shares three daughters. He says his life exemplifies a deep commitment to service, community, and family.
Dr. Ronda E. Phillips, an executive director of Community School District 23, New York City Public Schools, began her career as a Special Education Teacher in Ocean-Hill, Brownsville, where her commitment to the Caribbean community deepened.
The seasoned educator with over 25 years of experience is dedicated to improving the lives of underserved students. As such, she advanced to roles as Principal and Executive Director of Community 23, working to support the area’s vibrant Caribbean Population.
Dr. Phillips, who holds a bachelor’s in social work from Hunter College, a master’s in special education from Long Island University, and a Master’s in Educational Leadership from the College of St. Roses, went on to earn a Doctorate in Educational Leadership from SAGE University, focusing on culturally responsive education for Caribbean students in her dissertation.
Dr. Phillips says she is a passionate advocate for inclusive education, is also a writer, and enjoys traveling with her family. Her work continues to shape culturally responsive education practices, particularly for English-speaking Caribbean students.
Dawn S. Walker, vice president of Communications and Marketing at SUNY Downstate Health Sciences University, like the other Guyanese nationals, proudly carried her country’s Golden Arrowhead Flag of Achievement as she accepted her crystal award. She expressed gratitude during the Q&A.
The strategist with expertise in government, nonprofit, healthcare, and higher education sectors is a champion in her field.
She oversees crisis management, public relations, and marketing and shapes the instruction’s public image. A seasoned professional, Walker held senior roles at Kingsborough Community College and Medgar Evers College, focusing on outreach, media relations, and fundraising.
Walker served as Deputy Press Secretary to then-New York City Mayor Michael Bloomberg, managing communications for two deputy mayors in education and public housing.
She is the co-founder of Women’s City Network and has supported women in nonprofit and public sector leadership. She currently serves on the board of Medgar & Myrlie Evers Institute and College & Communication Fellowship, a re-entry program for justice-impacted women.
Walker holds a BA in communications from SUNY Old Westbury and MPA from Baruch College’s School of Public Affairs.
The Guyanese community would like to congratulate the remarkable contributions of nationals in their respective communities.
A special thanks to Victoria Schneps-Yunis, CEO and publisher of Caribbean Life, and Josh Schneps for the exceptional presentation in tribute to Caribbean nationals.
