KAREN GEHRES: THANK YOU VERY MUCH 💐💐for your support, sharing and humor. SINCE THEN, some things KAREN has accomplished since 2021: - Although she went to school for painting at Parsons School of Design, she ended up as a Producer in Film/Television. Then during Covid when she began painting again, after posting her paintings on Instagram and Facebook, it led to 3 successful gallery shows here in NYC with paintings sold. -In 2022, after leaving a full-time, high-stress job to return to freelancing, she felt happier and more fulfilled to spend more time with her loved ones and parents. -Got back behind the wheel so she could help out her parents better, after getting her license when she was 16 but never really drove, and has since put some miles on the road like never before. A force of nature on the streets of the city she would never leave, New York City, Karen Gehres began as a painter but morphed into the entertainment industry as a filmmaker, producer, writer and editor. Recognized for her documentaries: Astor Place Hairstylists and Begging Naked, which is in the Library of Congress, she is also an EPK Producer and Red Carpet Host, with a client list such as: Walt Disney, Amazon, Netflix and Sony to name a few. Karen is witty, fun, a straight-shooter, with a keen eye for storytelling through the eye of the camera, even on quiet jaunts through Manhattan streets. Check out this very lovely and creative woman at www.karengehresnyc.com also her project at: ⁠https://www.parkavenuemotionpictures.com

Letha M. Francis is a versatile and accomplished artist whose career spans various creative disciplines, including acting, singing, poetry, writing, lyricism, and music. She holds degrees in English and Political Science from The Johns Hopkins University and has honed her craft as an actress at Studio Theatre Conservatory, Black Nexxus with Susan Batson, and with Gail Charee. As an actress, Letha is recognized for her significant roles in films such as *S.O.U.L of a Black Woman* (2019) and *Deceived* (2013), as well as in the television series *Rose Anglade* (2013, Episode 1). Her dynamic stage presence has captivated audiences at prestigious venues, including Central Park SummerStage, BAMCafe Live, Nuyorican Poets Cafe, the Congressional Black Caucus, SOBs, Joe's Pub, The Knitting Factory, and The Canal Room. Letha's television appearances include features on TV One, the Oxygen Network, and *Finding the Sweet Spot*, as well as her contributions to the national promotional campaign for *Tootsie* on Broadway and professional voice-over work for Al Jazeera America Network TV. A talented musician, Letha has showcased her original song “Travel the World” at the Julliard Fringe Festival as part of the stage show *Ugly* and served as a vocalist in a production of Shakespeare's *The Merchant of Venice*. Her music uniquely fuses elements of Soul, Reggae, Jazz, and Poetry, often accompanied by intense lyrical imagery aimed at inspiring and healing. An advocate for mental health and wellness, Letha's work is informed by her belief in the therapeutic power of creativity—an idea she explored further after learning about occupational therapy during auditions. Currently, she is participating as a lyricist in the Lehman BMI Musical Theater Workshop and is in the process of completing a musically driven screenplay that sheds light on the experiences of BIPOC individuals. Letha is also the founder of L-inkwell, LLC, a multimedia content-producing company. Her latest offering, *Declutter Like a Mutha* is a self-love package that encourages relaxation and creativity through a thoughtful collection of items, including her poetry book which emphasizes the importance of clearing emotional clutter. Additionally, she offers the Core Writing Lab, a course that inspires self-affirmation and expression through various writing techniques. For more about Letha M. Francis, visit her website at https://www.lethamfrancis.com/

Paul Rowley, an acclaimed filmmaker, visual artist, writer, director, editor, cinematographer, producer, and co-founder of Still Films, hails from Dublin, Ireland, and currently resides in Brooklyn.

Delving into filmmaking in 1995, Rowley has crafted an impressive repertoire encompassing over 40 shorts, features, documentaries, video installations, and experimental films.

Recognized as the Irish Film NY Rising Star and a two-time IFTA nominee for his documentary works, Rowley has garnered accolades from the Irish Arts Council, including the Glen Dimplex award from the Irish Museum of Modern Art and the Irish American Art Award. He is a distinguished member of the Brooklyn Filmmakers Collective.

In 2007, Rowley co-established Dublin's renowned production house, STILL FILMS, where he serves as co-director. The company's debut feature documentary, "SEAVIEW," debuted at the Berlin Film Festival in 2008, followed by the co-directed venture "Build Something Modern" in 2010 with Nicky Gogan.

Since then, Still Films has continuously impressed audiences across prestigious platforms like Sundance, SXSW, New York Film Festival, Hot Docs, Pompidou Centre Paris, among others.

His recent acclaimed work, "THE RED TREE," sheds light on the clandestine history of Italian gay deportees under Mussolini's Fascist rule in the 1930s, notably showcased at CCI's Addressing the Nations early in 2021.

"THIS ONE'S FOR THE LADIES," a project Rowley shot and produced in collaboration with director Gene Graham, premiered at SXSW 2018, clinching a special jury award and securing distribution by NEON.

Paul Rowley's dedication to merging art with activism is evident in his role as the video director for Gays Against Guns in New York City, a feature documentary focusing on the movement battling the gun violence epidemic in the United States, particularly impacting LGBTQ+ individuals and marginalized communities. With a rich tapestry of awards and accolades adorning his career, Paul Rowley stands as a visionary storyteller committed to reshaping narratives through the fusion of art and activism.

Ann Elliott is a Graduate of the City College of New York with a BA in Sociology. She has a Master of Science degree in Business Leadership from Concordia College of New York from which she graduated with Honors in 2017 and received the Young Alumni of Distinction Award in 2019. She is the Founder and Executive Director of The Family Support Consultants. She is a member of New York Women’s Chamber of Commerce, Women in Black of the Greater New York area, a member of The International Society of Female Professionals, and a member of the Supervised Visitation Network. Ann worked as social worker in New York City Child Welfare for over 25 years and has Empowered, Coached and Mentored women who have their children placed in the foster care system. She teaches Parenting Skills classes, provides Supervised Visitation Services on custody court cases. She also provides Reunification Coaching Services to birth parents of children in foster care. She is a Chaplain and also a Board-Certified Christian Counselor through the National Association of Christian Counselors. She provides Faith-Based Counseling as requested. Ann Elliott worked in the New York City Child Welfare system for 25 years. She is a former CPS- Child Protective Services worker for the Administration for Children Services where she worked for 10 years and 15 years in the foster care Agencies. She has firsthand knowledge of the trafficking of children as she was approached to traffic children in her cases by her superiors. It was then that she began to see how extensive and complicit the agency, courts judges and attorneys were, in this vast criminal empire of trafficking children in the child welfare system. She has put her life at risk by coming forward with this information but knows that she must be a voice for the voiceless at all costs. In Honor of Senator Nancy Schaefer a Warrior and Champion for Child Welfare Reform, who stated “I believe Child Protective Service [CPS] nationwide has become corrupt and that the entire system is broken beyond repair. I am convinced parents and families should be warned of the dangers”, Ann has created an organization – REFORM CWN + FAMILY SUPPORT CONSULTANTS - passionate about advocating for the reform of the child welfare and family court system in New York, to be Agents of Change and Reform for the Child Welfare and Family Court Judicial System. The mission is to address the concerns of the Adoption and Safe Family Act (ASFA), that is pro-adoption and that expedites Termination of Parental Rights. The organization also tackles the systemic failures within Child Protective Services (CPS), foster care and Family Court. FAMILY SUPPORT CONSULTANTS is dedicated to Parent Empowerment & Advocacy and Family Reunification, as well as : highlighting concerns such as high turnover of CPS in field offices, illegal removal of documentation that supports parents progress and that compromises their court cases and financial incentives that compromises the welfare of children in the system and Family Court. The focus is also to bring attention to the concerns of child trafficking through the foster care system, family court corruption, compromised custody cases by rogue judges with judicial immunity and advocating for better support and resources for parents and children reunification and family stabilization. ..... kudos to Mr. Thomas Chung, her mentor.

Chantay Harrison-Crawford, a resilient 35 year-old woman, navigates life with Sickle Cell Anemia, Liver Disease, and various medical complications stemming from Sickle Cell Disease. Despite facing immense personal challenges, in 2019, she courageously founded Tilted Crown I Inc., a testament to her strength and determination.

In 2023, Chantay confronted rock-bottom moments as she grappled with her own and her daughter's separate suicide attempts, triggered by toxic relationships within her family and circle of friends. Through adversity, she found a renewed purpose after a divine intervention during her second suicide attempt, leading her to dedicate herself to self-transformation and following a higher calling.

As a mother, professional, wife, and entrepreneur, Chantay now channels her energy into fostering mental and emotional well-being. She initiated the "Royal Bible Study" program, aiming to empower women towards self-love and care, building on her commitment to serving others. Concurrently, she extended her compassion by offering shelter to two homeless individuals in Illinois. Chantay's past initiatives like "Wisdom Wednesday," documenting stories of Sickle Cell Warriors, and providing community support reflect her altruistic nature.

Notably, she has also launched programs such as "Melanated Warrior" and "PMS - Pray and Manifesting Ish," emphasizing natural remedies for Sickle Cell Anemia and hosting relatable discussions through a weekly podcast.

Embarking on a new chapter, she is set to release her first book under She Rises Studios, expected between November 2024 and January 2025, marking a significant milestone in her journey of resilience and empowerment.

Her social media presence on Instagram as @Catica.33, TikTok as @dearcatica.333, and podcasts on IHeartRadio, Apple Podcasts, and Spotify under "Dear Catica.33" showcase her commitment to sharing experiences and insights.

Cheryl Ann Gajadhar is a woman of faith, resilience, and passion. She was born in Trinidad and Tobago and grew up in a humble family surrounded by a rich spiritual legacy. As a child, she attended St. Augustine High School and later went on to study at St. Augustine College in Chicago. Despite her upbringing in a religious environment, Cheryl Ann's childhood was marred by traumatic experiences of sexual abuse. At the age of five, she was abused by people she trusted, and later faced further abuse during her time in an orphanage in east Trinidad. These experiences would shape her life forever, fueling her determination to be an advocate for children and survivors of abuse. However, it was through her faith in God that Cheryl Ann found the resilience to overcome her adversities and turn them into a powerful testimony. She became a born-again Christian and was filled with the Holy Spirit, dedicating her life to Christ and his mission. Cheryl Ann felt called to use her experiences and faith to be a witness and voice for God and children and became an ordained minister and prophetess. Her ministry has taken her internationally, including Suriname, where she was able to share her message of hope and restoration to people of all ages and backgrounds. She has also been a dedicated Sunday School teacher, lovingly guiding children in their own spiritual journeys. Cheryl Ann is not just a minister, but also an accomplished author and motivational speaker. She has written over fifteen books, including "The Girl In The Cupboard", a powerful memoir of her experiences of abuse and healing. She has also authored a safety manual for kids and other titles focused on self-improvement and spiritual growth. Although she has only been able to publish five of her books, her writing has already touched the hearts of many and offers a beacon of hope for those struggling with similar challenges. She has been interviewed by Trinidad newspapers, sharing her insights and experiences with a wider audience. Cheryl Ann continues to work as a motivational speaker, visiting schools and churches to inspire and empower people of all ages. While her journey has not been without challenges, she shows no sign of slowing down her passion for the care and safety of young children, as in shown in her fourth book, “Safety Tips-[What young children need to know about their personal safety] and her mission to spread God's love and instill hope in others. https://www.thegirlinthecupboard.com 👉🏾Creator/Host: Ozzie Stewart - IG: @otc_podcast20 👉🏾Guest: Cheryl Ann Gajadhar - @prophetesscherylanngajadhar

Kathryn Cleghorn is a committed animal welfare advocate and educator who has dedicated her life to making a difference in the lives of dogs and cats in Trinidad & Tobago. She has been the School Vice Principal of Princess Town Comprehensive since January 1990 and has been with the school for over 30 years. During this time, she has also founded Animals Alive, a nonprofit organization that runs the largest no-kill shelter for dogs and cats in the Caribbean. She grew up in a household with pets, and her family taught her the importance of treating animals with care and kindness. This upbringing set her on a lifelong mission to improve the lives of animals, particularly dogs and cats. In 2008, Cleghorn founded Animals Alive after seeing the plight of stray dogs and cats in Trinidad & Tobago. She recognized the need for a no-kill shelter that would provide care and rehabilitation for these animals. Under her leadership, Animals Alive has grown to become one of the most significant animal welfare organizations in the Caribbean region, providing a safe haven for hundreds of dogs and cats in need. The sanctuary sits on a 5-acre compound and features four low, wide buildings that hold kennels. Cleghorn and her team provide nutritious food and medical care for the animals brought in by Regional Corporations. The shelter is run by donations from businesses and individuals, and the cost of running it stands at approximately $65,000 monthly. In addition to providing shelter and care for dogs and cats, Cleghorn and her team run several programs to educate the community about animal welfare. These programs include a mentorship program that focuses on rehabilitating animals and a sponsorship program that provides support for dogs that remain at the shelter. They also offer volunteering opportunities as a way for like-minded people to meet and work together to promote animal welfare. Cleghorn is a strong advocate for legislation that would improve animal welfare standards. She has been instrumental in helping to produce new animal welfare standards that led to recently updated legislation in an Animal Health and Welfare Bill. She also lobbies for a complete ban on explosive fireworks, which she believes are a significant cause of suffering for both people and animals. Despite being controversial, Cleghorn remains committed to her belief in the no-kill policy. For her, euthanizing unwanted pets undermines the very reason for dedicating oneself to animal welfare. She firmly believes that every animal has a purpose and a reason for being and that it is our responsibility to preserve and protect their lives. Cleghorn believes that owning an animal has numerous benefits, including providing comfort and support, teaching responsibility, and aiding children's emotional and social development. She also emphasizes the importance of educating people about responsible pet ownership, using a combination of spaying/neutering, exercise, good nutrition, regular vaccinations, and de-worming. Over the years, Cleghorn's Animals Alive has received recognition by the Rotary Club. She has also been featured in several news outlets and documentaries on animal welfare, raising awareness about the plight of dogs and cats in Trinidad & Tobago. Cleghorn is supported in her work by a team of dedicated individuals, including volunteers and professionals who share her passion for animal welfare. Her partner, David "Charlie" Gunness, had been with her for almost three decades and helped to maintain the buildings and tend to the grounds. In summary, Kathryn Cleghorn's mission is to promote animal welfare, educate people about responsible pet ownership, and lobby for legislation that improves animal welfare standards. Despite facing controversy over her no-kill policy, Cleghorn remains committed to her belief in preserving and protecting animal life and has dedicated her entire life to making a difference for dogs and cats in Trinidad & Tobago

Rawlston Charles was born in Tobago and moved to Trinidad when he was 15. He migrated to the United States on December 12, 1967, with his copy of Kitchener’s 1967 album. Initially, he got involved in the automobile business, repairing, buying and selling cars. He would take his calypso records with him whenever he went out to lime or party on weekends, also working as a DJ, only playing calypso, which was not as popular at the time compared to other genres. It was challenging to get calypso records at the time, costing more to import into the US. He established Charley's Calypso City in Brooklyn on July 4th, 1972, and, subsequently, Charley's Records where he began traveling back to Trinidad to establish connections with calypsonians and bandleaders and acquire music. Despite not having any prior experience in the music industry, Charles became an executive producer, producing some of the greatest calypsos and soca hits. He worked with Sparrow, Rose, Shorty, Explainer, Kitchener, Shadow, Maestro, Swallow, and Becket. The band Charlie's Roots, was named after Charley because he sponsored it, giving them $14,000 to purchase instruments and equipment, but he also nurtured several leading musicians and notable calypsonians, including David Rudder, one of the greatest calypsonians of the modern era. He created Calypso House, where he invited calypsonians to stay at no charge. In 1977, Charles earned himself the respect of the biggest players in the arena when he made a judgment call on a piece of music that at first left people saying he was a madman. The song entitled "Tempo" by Calypso Rose became the first Road March title ever won by a woman. It was historical and a massive hit, all thanks to Charles, who refused to compromise on his vision for the song. In 1984, Charles built and opened his recording studio, which was used by calypso and soca artists as well as major performers on the East Coast hip-hop industry, such as Dougie Fresh, Slick Rick, and RUN-DMC. The studio's gold records were once displayed in the studio's hallway, but most of them were stolen years ago, and only a couple of them were salvaged. In 2019, his daughter, Tina Charles, directed a movie called "Charley's Records," featuring prominent artists such as Mighty Sparrow, Calypso Rose, Doug E Fresh, Kurtis Blow, Prime Minister Keith Rowley, Machel Montano, and Super Blue. Despite piracy and other challenges in the music industry, Charles continues to be optimistic about the future. He believes that the younger generation's increasing interest in soca and calypso music is promising, and many young artists are exploring what was there before them. He hopes that calypso and soca music will continue to thrive and reach a wider audience. Charles's career, passion, and life are that of an American immigrant story of an unsung hero and pioneer who opened doors for many artists to waltz to fame and fortune. Rawlston Charles may have lost more money than they have made profits, but his legacy remains a crucial piece of Caribbean music history, with an exhibition in the National Museum of African History & Culture #otc #onthecallpodcast #podcaster #podcast #ozzie #host #service #shininglight #trinidadian #trinidadandtobago #trinidad #caribbean #caribbeanculture #culture #Triniculture #TriniDiaspora #Trinistories #community #Trinicommunity #sponsor #advocate #calypso @charleysrecords #steelpan #@pelhamgoddard #studio #blackradio @CalypsoRoseofficial #anthem #halloffame #god #children #olympics #documentary #grammys #frankiemcintosh#acolyte #church #faith #bell #marbles #elijah #nationalmuseum #national #museum #african #history