Brooklyn, NY – The vibrant spirit of the Caribbean illuminated The Arches in Brooklyn on November 6, 2025, as the third annual Island Icons Honors celebrated the profound contributions of Caribbean-American visionaries. Presented by Carib Biz Network (CBN), the event, themed “Legacy in Motion,” recognized individuals whose creativity, resilience, and cultural pride have left an indelible mark across business, technology, wellness, education, and creative enterprise.
Founded by Dr. Nicole Grimes, the Island Icons Honors has become a premier U.S.-based platform dedicated to spotlighting and connecting trailblazers of Caribbean heritage who are shaping industries globally. Dr. Grimes, an educator and entrepreneur with a Ph.D. in Urban Education, established Carib Biz Network in 2019 with a mission to amplify Caribbean talent, foster economic opportunity, and help bridge the racial wealth gap for businesses across the diaspora. CBN operates as a multidisciplinary platform focusing on education, events, and marketing to support micro, small, and medium-sized businesses.
“Our honorees represent what it means to lead with both vision and heart,” stated Dr. Grimes, founder of Carib Biz Network. “Island Icons Honors is more than an award ceremony—it’s a movement that celebrates how Caribbean excellence continues to shape global culture, business, and possibility”. This year’s ceremony honored a distinguished group whose achievements embody the very essence of Caribbean excellence and resilience.
Diaspora Trailblazer: Marc Kwesi Farrell
Marc Kwesi Farrell, the Trinidadian entrepreneur and CEO of Ten To One Rum, was honored with the 2025 Diaspora Trailblazer of the Year award for redefining Caribbean craftsmanship on the global stage. Farrell, an alumnus of MIT, Cambridge, and Harvard Business School, previously held a leadership role as one of Starbucks’ youngest Vice Presidents. He founded Ten To One Rum with a vision to challenge conventional perceptions of rum, highlighting its connection to Caribbean culture and heritage, and elevating it as a versatile, top-shelf spirit. The brand’s name itself pays homage to the ideals of unity and collective strength, inspired by the former West Indies Federation.
Wellness and Resilience Vanguard: Dr. Judith Joseph
Dr. Judith Joseph, MD MBA, received the 2025 Wellness & Resilience Vanguard Award for her impactful work as a board-certified psychiatrist, researcher, and global mental health advocate. Dr. Joseph is recognized for her expertise in addressing mental health challenges, particularly her research and advocacy around high-functioning depression and reclaiming joy as a form of resilience. She has developed original psychometric scales for mood and anxiety, taught mental health courses at prestigious institutions including the White House, and received a Congressional Proclamation for her advocacy and reach within the Caribbean-American community. Her content on social media garners millions of views monthly, making complex mental health topics accessible and empowering.
Founders of the Future: Marlon Nichols
Marlon Nichols, Co-founder and Managing General Partner of MaC Venture Capital, was celebrated with the 2025 Founders of the Future Award. MaC Venture Capital is a leading seed-stage investment firm known for backing visionary founders and championing diversity and inclusion, particularly for BIPOC- and female-founded companies. With over $600 million in assets under management, Nichols has played a crucial role in accelerating companies and shaping the venture capital landscape. Hailing from Jamaica, his investment philosophy is rooted in identifying global trends and empowering entrepreneurs to build transformative businesses.
Legacy of Leadership: Atiba Edwards
Atiba Edwards was honored with the 2025 Legacy of Leadership Award as the President and CEO of the Brooklyn Children’s Museum. Edwards made history as the first Black man to lead the museum in its 125-year history. A native of St. Vincent and the Grenadines who was raised in Brooklyn, Edwards previously served as the museum’s Chief Operating Officer. His appointment signifies a powerful moment for representation, and he is committed to continuing the museum’s legacy of providing dynamic and enriching educational experiences for all children.
The Island Icons Honors 2025 event successfully celebrated the multifaceted achievements of these honorees, underscoring the significant impact of the Caribbean diaspora on global culture, innovation, and community. The evening served as a testament to the enduring spirit of Caribbean excellence, resilience, and the rich tapestry of its culture, reinforcing the importance of recognizing and uplifting these visionary leaders. The event highlighted the ongoing narrative of how Caribbean brilliance continues to shape the world, one legacy at a time.