Trinidad (Commonwealth Union)_ Dominique Thorne, renowned for her role in “Black Panther: Wakanda Forever,” was recently celebrated with the prestigious Diaspora Creative Excellence Award at the National Entrepreneurship Awards. The ceremony was held at the Hyatt Regency in Port of Spain, Trinidad and Tobago. This accolade, presented for the first time, recognizes Thorne’s outstanding contributions to the creative sector and her role as an ambassador for arts and culture in Trinidad and Tobago (TT) and the wider Caribbean.
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Thorne, a dynamic force in Hollywood, has impressed audiences with her performances in critically acclaimed films such as “If Beale Street Could Talk” and “Judas and the Black Messiah.” Her Caribbean heritage, deeply rooted in Trinidad and Tobago, has been a source of pride for many and was a significant factor in her receiving this honor. Despite being born and raised in New York, Thorne’s connection to her Trinidadian roots is strong, with her mother, Nerissa Guy, hailing from Carapichaima, and her father, Navie Guy, from Mayaro.
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During a courtesy call with Foster Cummings, Trinidad and Tobago’s Minister of Youth Development and National Service, the minister expressed his pride in Thorne’s achievements and her role in representing TT on the global stage. Cummings stated, “Your presence here is a national inspiration to young people and a testament to the impact of our diaspora,” highlighting the significance of Thorne’s recognition. On receiving the prestigious award, Thorne expressed her gratitude and enthusiasm about her new role, emphasizing her commitment to furthering the arts and culture of Trinidad and Tobago. She said, “I am excited to solidify this partnership and work extensively as a youth ambassador to ensure that Trinidad and Tobago and the diaspora continue to be top of mind on the international stage. This is an opportunity for us to create opportunities for others in the arts.”
At 26, Thorne has already achieved remarkable success in her career, including her portrayal of Riri Williams/Ironheart in the Marvel Cinematic Universe. Additionally, her work exemplifies her commitment to her craft and her dedication to her Caribbean heritage. Thorne credits her parents and her upbringing in Brooklyn’s Little Caribbean for her drive and ambition. She noted, “They made it clear that I could do whatever I wanted, and I could live the type of life that I wanted to,” reflecting on the influences that shaped her. Furthermore, Thorne’s Caribbean heritage has profoundly impacted her work in Hollywood. She emphasized the importance of pride and meticulousness in her craft, values instilled in her from a young age. Thorne explained, “The amount of time and care I take to prepare myself is also a part of it… it’s a blend but originates with those early lessons of doing your best for you”.
In addition to her artistic achievements, Thorne is also passionate about bridging the gap between Hollywood and the Caribbean. She is dedicated to supporting individuals and organizations that celebrate Caribbean culture and has expressed her desire to carry the flag with pride and honor. She stated, “It’s about doing the very best that I can at this level and carrying the flag with pride and honor”. Furthermore, Thorne’s family, including her parents, younger brother, aunts, uncles, cousins, and grandfather, were present to celebrate her monumental achievement. She offered advice to Caribbean entrepreneurs, urging them to trust their passions and pursue their dreams with dedication and humility. She stated, “If you feel that burning desire to get this thing out there, to get it off the ground, and continue to trust yourself. Show up fully, humbly, passionately, and with a spirit of learning.”
The National Entrepreneurship Awards, hosted by the National Entrepreneurship Development Company Limited (NEDCO), recognized outstanding contributions across various categories. This year’s theme, “Exploring Horizons,” underscored the celebration of entrepreneurial excellence. Accordingly, NEDCO CEO Calvin Maurice highlighted Thorne’s career as an example of effective management of time, resources, and talent, underscoring the entrepreneurial nature of acting. The awards ceremony honored entrepreneurs in eight categories: Green Entrepreneur, Technology-Driven Entrepreneur, Innovative Entrepreneur, Youth Entrepreneur, Female Entrepreneur, Male Entrepreneur, Arts and Culture Entrepreneur, and NEDCO Client of the Year. Thorne’s recognition as the inaugural recipient of Trinidad and Tobago’s Diaspora Creative Excellence Award underscores her significant impact and the global influence of the Caribbean diaspora. As Dominique Thorne continues to make waves in Hollywood, her recognition in Trinidad serves as a powerful testament to the profound impact and potential of the Caribbean diaspora on the global stage.
