Miramar Commissioner Avril Cherasard Press Releases
ROHAN MARLEY, SON OF REGGAE ICON, BOB MARLEY - TO HEADLINE CITY OF MIRAMAR’S 2ND ANNUAL GLOBAL AFRICA SYMPOSIUM
Miramar, FL., May 4, 2026 - The City of Miramar will host the 2nd Annual Global Africa Symposium on Saturday, June 6, 2026, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Miramar City Hall, 2300 Civic Center Place.
Building on the success of last year’s inaugural event, the symposium will convene leaders, innovators, and community stakeholders to celebrate Africa’s global influence and strengthen connections with the diaspora.
This year’s symposium, themed “The Africa We Want: The 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development,” will highlight opportunities in trade, innovation, culture, and economic growth while commemorating Africa Day.
Hosted by Commissioner Avril Cherasard, the event underscores Miramar’s commitment to fostering international partnerships and cultural exchange.
“The Global Africa Symposium reflects Miramar’s vision as a diverse, forward-thinking city that embraces global connections,” said Commissioner Avril Cherasard. “We are proud to bring together leaders and communities to celebrate Africa’s legacy, explore new opportunities, and strengthen the bonds between Africa and its diaspora.”
The program will feature keynote speaker Rohan Marley, entrepreneur and son of reggae icon Bob Marley, along with panel discussions, cultural showcases, and a “Global African Village” experience with food, music, fashion, and vendors.
The symposium serves as a platform to promote inclusive dialogue, expand economic collaboration, and position Africa and its diaspora as key contributors to the global economy.
Open to the public, residents and interested participants can register at: GlobalAfrica2026.Eventbrite.com.
Media Contact:
Global Africa Symposium Planning Committee
U. Desmond Alufohai, Co-Chair | (305) 519-3550
COMMISSIONER AVRIL CHERASARD AND KIWANIS CLUB OF EAST PINES MIRAMAR DEDICATE TWO BUDDY BENCHES AT CORAL COVE ACADEMY OF THE ARTS
Miramar, FL., March 2, 2026 - In a celebration of kindness, inclusion, and community partnership, Commissioner Avril Cherasard and the Kiwanis Club of East Pines-Miramar dedicated two vibrant Buddy Benches at Coral Cove Academy of the Arts, located in Miramar, during a recent ceremony and day of service held on campus.
The benches, designed and painted by internationally acclaimed artist Andy Ballentine, serve as powerful symbols of friendship, compassion, and connection among students. Representing the artist at the ceremony was Mrs. Winsome Green, who joined school leaders, students, and community partners for the special occasion.
The Buddy Bench concept encourages children to look out for one another, extend friendship, and show empathy to classmates and even strangers. When a student sits on a Buddy Bench, it signals that they may be feeling lonely or in need of a friend, creating an opportunity for peers to step forward with kindness and inclusion. The initiative reinforces a culture of care and unity throughout the school community.
“Buddy benches are more than just seating, they are a quiet invitation to kindness,” said Commissioner Avril Cherasard. “Through this partnership with the Kiwanis Club of East Pines-Miramar and the artistic vision of Andy Ballentine, we are reminding our students that friendship and compassion build stronger schools and stronger communities.”
The dedication ceremony was attended by Coral Cove Academy of the Arts students, Principal Mrs. Saban, Vice Principal Mr. Figueroa, members of the Kiwanis Club of East Pines Miramar, and Club President Michael Rose. The event also marked a day of service focused on supporting the school community and uplifting students through intentional acts of kindness and engagement.
The Kiwanis Club of East Pines Miramar continues its longstanding commitment to serving youth and families through impactful service projects and collaborative partnerships with local schools. Through initiatives like the Buddy Benches, the organization and its partners are helping cultivate positive school environments where every child feels seen, valued, and supported.
Link to photos: https://www.dropbox.com/t/h2V2BntFuhk4PUnh
BUILDING BRIDGES ABROAD: MIRAMAR JOINS MULTI-JURISDICTIONAL TRADE MISSION TO SOUTH AFRICA
Miramar, FL – December 16, 2025 – Miramar Commissioners Avril Cherasard and Carson “Eddy” Edwards recently participated in an Export Sales and Trade Mission to South Africa, held from November 29 through December 6, 2025, as part of a multi-jurisdictional delegation organized by SelectFlorida. The delegation also included Broward County Commissioner Alexandra P. Davis and Paul Njoroge of the Miramar Economic Development Department.
The mission included official stops in Johannesburg, Durban, Cape Town, and Nelson Mandela Bay, and focused on strengthening bilateral trade relationships while expanding international market access for Florida businesses, with a particular emphasis on opportunities for Miramar’s growing entrepreneurial community.
Working collaboratively, the delegation engaged in commercial briefings, business matchmaking sessions, and high-level meetings with government agencies, universities, and industry leaders across South Africa. These engagements highlighted key opportunities for cross-border collaboration in innovation-driven sectors and reinforced South Africa’s role as a strategic gateway to broader African markets.
“This mission represents a meaningful opportunity to open new doors for Miramar’s business community,” said Commissioner Cherasard. “By strengthening ties with Africa, we are inviting innovation, trade, and investment that can empower our local entrepreneurs and stimulate long-term economic growth.”
The participation of Commissioners Cherasard and Edwards, alongside Broward County Commissioner Davis and Miramar’s economic development representation, supports Miramar’s broader global engagement and economic development objectives, including:
• Advancing international collaboration in key sectors such as healthcare, information technology, and education
• Supporting entrepreneurship and small business growth by connecting Miramar-based companies with global markets
• Enhancing the global competitiveness of local businesses seeking to enter emerging economies
• Promoting economic mobility through partnerships that foster workforce development, job creation, and long-term investment
The Export Sales and Trade Mission underscores Miramar’s commitment to working collaboratively with regional and state partners to build international relationships that generate lasting economic value for residents and businesses.
For more information about SelectFlorida’s Export Sales Missions, visit SelectFlorida.com.
“SNEAKERS ON THE GROUND” RETURNS FOR AN EVENING OF FITNESS, FUN & AWARENESS
MIRAMAR, FL October 15, 2025 – The City of Miramar and Commissioner Avril Cherasard invite residents to attend the October edition of Sneakers on the Ground, a free community fitness event celebrating health, wellness, and breast cancer awareness.
This month’s event will feature high-energy workouts led by Jammin Jamei, line dancing and aerobics for all fitness levels, and a candlelight march honoring breast cancer survivors and warriors. Attendees are encouraged to wear pink and bring hats and fans in solidarity with breast cancer awareness.
“This October edition is particularly special,” said Commissioner Avril Cherasard. “We’re not just coming together to exercise, we’re celebrating survivors, honoring loved ones, and reminding our community that movement and awareness can save lives.”
Commissioner Cherasard launched Sneakers on the Ground earlier this year as part of her initiative to promote community wellness and holistic health, aligning with the City of Miramar’s mission to serve residents “360 degrees”, physically, emotionally, and socially.
Event Details:
- Date: Friday, October 17, 2025
- Time: 6:00 PM – 9:00 PM
- Location: Vernon E. Hargray Youth Enrichment Center Gymnasium
- 7000 Miramar Parkway, Miramar, FL 33025
This event is free and open to residents ages 12 and up. RSVP at SneakersOnTheGround.eventbrite.com.
Future Sneakers on the Ground dates:
- November 7, 2025
- December 19, 2025
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.