Press Releases
TREASURE COAST BAHAMIAN CONNECTION ORGANIZATION (TCBCO)
Miramar, FL. - July 22, 2025 - In a proud moment for the City of Miramar and the Bahamian American community, Commissioner Avril Cherasard, the first Bahamian American woman elected to the Miramar City Commission, was honored with the Glass Ceiling Award by the Treasure Coast Bahamian Connection Organization (TCBCO) on July 12th. The award was presented during TCBCO’s Gala recognizing trailblazing American and Bahamian women whose achievements have opened doors and inspired generations.
Commissioner Cherasard stood alongside a prestigious group of honorees, including:
- Shanta Knowles, the first female Bahamian Commissioner of Police;
- Katherine Fernandez Rundle, the first Cuban American State Attorney;
- Waltiea Rolle, the first Bahamian WNBA player;
- Linda Hudson, the first female Mayor of Fort Pierce;
- and other dynamic leaders breaking barriers and redefining excellence.
Commissioner Cherasard accepted the award with a heartfelt and empowering message stating,
"I proudly accept this Trailblazing Woman Award on behalf of all the little girls who were told they would not go far because of the environment they were born into. Your dreams are achievable!"
Her words were met with a standing ovation and resonated deeply with attendees, particularly young women striving to overcome systemic limitations and achieve greatness.
As a proud Bahamian American, Commissioner Cherasard's leadership continues to represent resilience, representation, and the importance of inclusive governance. Her historic election and continued advocacy have paved the way for more diverse voices to be heard in public service.
The Glass Ceiling Award is bestowed upon individuals who have shattered societal limitations and championed progress in their communities. TCBCO’s annual gala remains a powerful platform to honor those who uplift others through their example.
CITY OF MIRAMAR LAUNCHES ‘JOURNEY TO SUCCESS’ SMALL BUSINESS CONTEST FOR EMERGING CARIBBEAN ENTREPRENEURS EMERGING CARIBBEAN ENTREPRENEURS
Miramar, FL, June 17, 2025 - The City of Miramar proudly invites its newest Caribbean American-owned businesses to participate in the inaugural “Journey to Success” contest, part of the Miramar Means Business initiative. This event, hosted by Commissioner Avril Cherasard during Caribbean American Heritage Month, will shine a spotlight on the vibrant contributions of Caribbean entrepreneurs who have opened a small business in Miramar within the last 12 months.
The grand reception will take place on Thursday, July 17, 2025, from 7PM to 9PM at the Miramar Cultural Center, located at 2400 Civic Center Place, Miramar, FL 33025, where the winner will be recognized.
Designed to highlight entrepreneurial stories and build connections, the event will feature a fireside chat, business resources, networking, and giveaways - all focused-on uplifting and creating a nurturing space for small businesses, fostering economic growth.
“Miramar continues to be a thriving hub for Caribbean entrepreneurs,” said Commissioner Cherasard. “Here in the city of Miramar, we care about our small businesses. During this month, celebrating National Caribbean American Heritage Month, we want to hear from you. Share your stories. Let us know why you chose Miramar.”
How to Enter:
Caribbean American business owners who launched in Miramar in the past year are encouraged to submit a short written or video story by Monday, June 30, 2025, to Commissioner Cherasard at acherasard@miramarfl.gov.
Submissions should include:
- Country of origin
- Name of business
- Why you chose the City of Miramar to launch your business
The event is supported by the City of Miramar’s Economic Development and Housing Department (EDH), which provides robust support for small businesses including training programs, mentorship, and access to funding opportunities aimed at empowering entrepreneurs and strengthening the local economy. For additional information about the small business competition, visit: Looking for Caribbean-Owned Businesses! and for information on the Business Department: https://www.investmiramar.org/Support
Register to attend the event at: MiramarMeansBusiness.eventbrite.com
MIRAMAR’S FIRST FEMALE BAHAMIAN-AMERICAN AND NEWLY ELECTED COMMISSIONER HONORED IN BARRATERRE, EXUMA, THE BAHAMAS, DURING CARIBBEAN-AMERICAN HERITAGE MONTH
Miramar, FL, June 9, 2025 – In a powerful display of cultural pride and transnational unity, newly elected Miramar City Commissioner Avril Cherasard was honored with the Key to the City of Barraterre, Exuma, The Bahamas. The award was presented by the Barraterre Development Association during the 40th Annual Barraterre Homecoming Festival & Regatta, held June 5–9, 2025.
The recognition comes during Caribbean-American Heritage Month in the United States, a time dedicated to celebrating the achievements and contributions of Caribbean-Americans to the nation’s history, culture, and public service. Commissioner Cherasard, a proud Bahamian who was born and raised in Nassau, Bahamas, with family roots in Barraterre through her father, embodies this legacy through her trailblazing leadership and steadfast dedication to service. She is the first female Bahamian-American elected to the Miramar City Commission.
In a gesture of mutual respect and partnership, Commissioner Cherasard also presented an official proclamation from the City of Miramar to the Bahamian delegation, formally recognizing Barraterre Homecoming Celebration Week for its cultural and historical significance.
“It is an honor to be recognized for something I do as representation of great Bahamianism in other countries.” said Commissioner Avril Cherasard. “I am an extremely proud Bahamian with beautiful roots right here in Barraterre; I never forget where I come from. Everywhere I go, I represent my Bahamaland”
As part of the occasion, the City of Miramar gifted a custom two-sided street sign to the people of Barraterre, commemorating the 1,271-mile distance between the two communities. The sign serves as a symbol of unity, shared heritage, and the ties between Miramar and the Bahamian diaspora.
The Barraterre Homecoming Festival & Regatta is a cornerstone celebration of Bahamian heritage, drawing families and the diaspora together in celebration of identity, tradition, and progress. Commissioner Cherasard’s recognition deepens the cultural bridge between Miramar and the Caribbean, especially during this national month of reflection and pride.
Her election and this recent honor mark a historic milestone for Miramar, Barraterre, and the broader Caribbean-American community, highlighting the power of representation, heritage, and global civic leadership.