The Island Icons Honors will return to Brooklyn on Thursday, November 6, 2025, for its third annual celebration of Caribbean-American excellence in business, culture, and innovation.
Presented by Carib Biz Network (CBN), the event—held under the theme “Legacy in Motion”—will bring together nearly 200 guests from across the business, cultural, and creative sectors for an evening of recognition, networking, and inspiration.
Founded by Dr. Nicole K. Grimes, Island Icons Honors was created to spotlight visionary entrepreneurs, creatives, and community leaders of Caribbean heritage who are shaping industries across the United States and the wider diaspora.
“Our honorees represent what it means to lead with both vision and heart,” said 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.”
Honorees for 2025
This year’s distinguished recipients include:
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Dr. Judith Joseph – 2025 Wellness & Resilience Vanguard Award
Board-certified psychiatrist, researcher, and global mental health advocate. -
Marc Kwesi Farrell – 2025 Diaspora Trailblazer of the Year
Trinidadian entrepreneur and CEO of Ten To One Rum, recognized for redefining Caribbean craftsmanship on the global stage. -
Marlon Nichols – 2025 Founders of the Future Award
Co-founder and managing general partner of MaC Venture Capital, one of North America’s leading seed-stage investment firms.- Advertisement -
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Atiba Edwards – 2025 Legacy of Leadership Award
President and CEO of the Brooklyn Children’s Museum, honored for championing creativity, equity, and cultural education for youth.
Celebrating Partnership and Community Impact
This year’s program is supported by Ten To One Rum, Clif Family Wines, and a growing roster of community partners and in-kind sponsors across the food, beverage, and lifestyle industries. Together, these brands aim to elevate Caribbean representation in business and culture while promoting creativity, sustainability, and social impact.
Guests will enjoy a pre-event cocktail reception, honoree presentations, and opportunities to network with some of the Caribbean diaspora’s most dynamic voices in business, tech, culture, and the arts.
Founded in 2023 by Carib Biz Network, Island Icons Honors is the premier U.S.-based celebration recognizing Caribbean-American entrepreneurs, creatives, and community leaders driving innovation and cultural influence across industries. Through its annual awards, storytelling, and partnerships, the initiative continues to uplift the entrepreneurial spirit and excellence that define the Caribbean diaspora.
Event Details
Date: Thursday, November 6, 2025
Location: The Arches, Brooklyn, New York
Time: 6:30–9:30 p.m. ET
Tickets & Info: www.caribbiznetwork.com/islandicons
