Community leaders honored at Get Real with Shameeza Recognition Gala Dinner

Seven Caribbean-American leaders were honored for their outstanding service and contributions to the community during the fifth annual Get Real with Shameeza Recognition Gala Dinner, held June 28 in Queens.

The event, hosted by Guyanese-American entrepreneur and media personality Shameeza Ally, brought together community members, elected officials, business leaders, family and friends for an evening of recognition, entertainment and celebration.

Honored during the gala were Navin Shivpal, CEO of Cottage Home Care Services and Brooklyn Institute of Vocational Training; Cloyette Harris-Stoute, founder of Guyanese Girls Rock; Dulary Shanta, owner of Shanta’s Flowers; Mohamed Amin, founder and executive director of Caribbean Equality Project; Rhonda Binda, public servant and community advocate; Aminta Kilawan-Narine, attorney, community organizer and social justice activist; and Inspector Ralph Clement.

Each honoree received an award recognizing their leadership, dedication and lasting impact on the Caribbean-American community.

The ceremony featured presentations highlighting the accomplishments of the recipients, as well as tributes from colleagues and supporters who praised their commitment to service and advocacy.

“This event is about celebrating people who continue to uplift others and make a positive difference in our communities,” Ally said. “Their work inspires all of us.”

The gala marked the fifth anniversary of the recognition program, which was established in 2021 as part of the celebration of Ally’s talk show, Get Real with Shameeza. The program honors individuals whose work has strengthened communities through public service, education, health care, business, social justice and philanthropy.

Guests enjoyed an evening filled with music, networking, dining and cultural pride as attendees gathered to celebrate the achievements of the award recipients. The atmosphere was one of gratitude and inspiration, with many reflecting on the importance of recognizing community leaders whose efforts often take place behind the scenes.

The event also highlighted the work of SafAri for Empowerment, the nonprofit organization founded by Ally to support survivors of domestic violence and underserved families. Through initiatives in New York and Guyana, the organization provides community outreach programs, educational support, and resources for vulnerable populations.

Since its founding, SafAri for Empowerment has organized coat drives, toy distributions, holiday meal programs, and school-supply initiatives benefiting hundreds of children and families. The organization has also partnered with community stakeholders in Guyana to support women, youth, and families in underserved communities.

Ally said the success of this year’s gala reinforces the importance of recognizing individuals who dedicate their lives to helping others.

“The evening was a beautiful celebration of service, leadership and community,” she said. “Seeing all of the honorees receive the recognition they deserve was truly special.”

The gala concluded with award presentations, photographs and fellowship among attendees, capping off a memorable night dedicated to honoring excellence within the Caribbean-American community.