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NIA LONG, LEWIS HAMILTON, ESTELLE HIGHLIGHTED AT SPICE OF THE CARIBBEAN ASSOCIATION’s DEBUT AT BELOVED COMMUNITY INTERNATIONAL EXPO

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NIA LONG, LEWIS HAMILTON, ESTELLE HIGHLIGHTED AT SPICE OF THE CARIBBEAN ASSOCIATION’s DEBUT AT BELOVED COMMUNITY INTERNATIONAL EXPO

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By Dr. Jerome Dorn

The SPICE of the Caribbean Association of Georgia (SOCAga) made a dazzling debut at the Beloved Community International Expo on Saturday, September 13, turning the spotlight on Grenadian heritage and leaving an unforgettable impression on the more than 2,500 attendees who flocked to the SOCAga booth.

NAESM logo with sunburst and health message.
NAESM logo with sunburst and health message.
NAESM logo with sunburst and health message.
NAESM logo with sunburst and health message.
NAESM logo with sunburst and health message.

The booth, brimming with sights, sounds, and flavors of Grenada, quickly became one of the expo’s most popular attractions. From authentic cuisine to cultural storytelling, SOCAga’s presence reflected both the warmth and vibrancy of the “Spice Isle.â€

Star Power Meets Cultural Pride

High-profile figures including Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens, Dr. Bernice A. King, and V-103’s Maria Boynton stopped by to connect with SOCAga volunteers and immerse themselves in Grenadian culture. Headkrack of Dish Nation amplified the excitement with a special shout-out from the main stage, while The King Center’s official social media spotlighted SOCAga in its “Moments with our CEO†series featuring Dr. King.

To the delight of visitors, SOCAga also celebrated the Grenadian roots of globally recognized icons such as actress Nia Long, Grammy-winning singer Estelle, and Formula 1 legend Lewis Hamilton. The legacy of Jennifer Hosten, the first Black Miss World (1970), and the heritage of Louise Little, mother of Malcolm X, added depth to the rich narrative of Grenada’s impact on world history.

A Culinary and Cultural Journey

Guests lined up throughout the day to sample an authentic menu of Grenadian favorites:

  • Oildown (Grenada’s national dish)
  • Bakes & saltfish
  • Tamarind balls
  • Coconut tarts and sweet bread

The intoxicating aromas of spices, the texture of traditional ingredients, and the hospitality of SOCAga volunteers created an immersive cultural journey. Attendees also took part in raffles featuring standout prizes such as:

  • Two 3-day, 2-night hotel stays at Rainbow Inn Grenada
  • Autographed books by Dr. Ilyasah Shabazz (daughter of Malcolm X)
  • Premium Jouvay chocolate from Grenada’s Diamond Chocolate Factory

Gratitude and Global Connection

“Working with you was a privilege; your collaboration and belief in us made this a truly special journey,†said Sherryl Calliste-Thegg, Executive Director of SOCAga, who has devoted more than a decade to building the organization. She credited the event’s success to a passionate team of volunteers, caterers, and the support of the association’s SPICE of the Caribbean Global Advocate Harmony Sponsors: Chateau de la Mothe Grenada and Rainbow Inn Grenada.

About SPICE of the Caribbean Association of GA

Founded in 2015, SOCAga is a Georgia-based Grenadian association committed to preserving and sharing the cultural heritage of Grenada and the Caribbean diaspora. Widely celebrated by the global Caribbean community, SOCAga continues to bridge cultures through programs that uplift, educate, and inspire.

About The Beloved Community International Expo

Hosted at The King Center, the Expo unites global citizens in celebration of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s vision of a world rooted in love, peace, and nonviolence. The event showcases cultures from across the globe, fostering harmony and togetherness in Atlanta and beyond.

#SOCAga #Grenada #SpiceIsland #TheKingCenter #BelovedCommunity

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Celebrity photographer and disabled Vietnam veteran Jerome Dorn embodies the very definition of resilience. Born in Philadelphia, the fifth of seven children, Dorn stayed focused throughout his youth, eventually obtaining his degree in Criminal Justice. Dorn has worked with the Philadelphia Police Department, Department of Justice, World Wide Detective Agency, and several other high profile security groups. Throughout his successful career, Dorn wrestled with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, an aftereffect of his military service. Battling the pain and debilitating effect of PTSD, Dorn found comfort behind the camera. Photography proved to be not only therapeutic, but life changing as well. Dorn picked up his first camera in 1970 while serving in Vietnam and knew instantly that behind the lens was where he belonged. His shooting style and photographs were special, generating a buzz in the industry. In 1985, he began his career in photojournalism, working in a variety of genres. Dorn’s credentials include fashion, lifestyle photography, photojournalism, and celebrity/red carpet coverage. Working with MSNBC, Jet Magazine, and major publications in Philadelphia and around the country, Dorn has had the honor of capturing the images of hundreds of notable celebrities and politicians including President Barack Obama, George Bush Jr, Bill and Hillary Clinton, Maya Angelou, Jesse Jackson, Rihanna, Snoop Dog, Will Smith, and Tyler Perry. Photography has sent Dorn around the globe, inspiring his passion for civil activism. In 1995, Dorn assembled and led a group of forty-two men to the Million Man March. Together, they spent five days walking from Philadelphia to Washington DC. In his travels, Dorn observed a common theme amongst the youth of the world. Many of the children he encountered seemed lost. Understanding that opportunities for at-risk youth are minimal, Dorn was inspired to make a difference. Established by Dorn in 2011, InDaHouseMedia was built on the idea that there is room in the house for everyone. With InDaHouseMedia, Dorn’s mission is to provide the future generation with positive direction through sports, music, and photography.

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