Trinidad Diaspora Award Honoree Dominique Thorne: Here’s How She’s Connecting Hollywood and the Caribbean with Creative Brilliance – Essence

Renowned Hollywood actress Dominique Thorne was recently honored with the inaugural Diaspora Creative Excellence Award in Port of Spain, Trinidad and Tobago. This prestigious award, presented by the National Entrepreneurship Development Company Limited (NEDCO), is not only a recognition of Thorne’s achievements in Hollywood, but a celebration of her emerging role as a cultural ambassador who is keen to bridge the gap between the Caribbean and Hollywood.

Thorne, known for her powerful performances in films such as “Black Panther: Wakanda Forever,” “If Beale Street Could Talk” and “Judas and the Black Messiah”“she constantly drew on her Caribbean heritage as a source of inspiration. “I am honored and humbled to accept the diaspora award. My parents were born in Trinidad; my Caribbean heritage is near and dear to me. Growing up in a Trinidadian household immersed me in a culture, rich traditions, resilience and a strong sense of community. These values ​​have guided me throughout my journey, both personally and professionally. So to be recognized tonight validates the path I’ve traveled, the connections I continue to cultivate and the impact of my work thus far,” Thorne said during his acceptance speech.

The 26-year-old actress, who also stars as Riri Williams in Marvel’s Ironheart, credits much of her hard work to her upbringing in Brooklyn’s Little Caribbean neighborhood. The lessons instilled by her parents emphasized the importance of following one’s dreams and taking pride in one’s work. These values ​​now shape his efforts to use his platform to elevate Caribbean culture on the global stage.

“I hope that this recognition of me by NEDCO can mark the beginning of amplifying and supporting the already vibrant communities of artistic and self-starters in Trinidad and Tobago. With high-level supporters such as those from the Ministry of Youth Development and National Service, such attention creates the potential for future artistic endeavors to shine on a wider and international stage,” said Thorne, outlining her vision to foster greater connections between the Caribbean and the global artistic community.

Thorne has embraced her role as a creative entrepreneur, navigating the complexities of the entertainment industry while staying true to her roots. “I never imagined myself dealing with tasks like hiring staff or managing a team… but this journey has deepened my connection with the essence of creative entrepreneurship,” she said.

Her passion for entrepreneurship is intertwined with her commitment to cultural advocacy as she hopes to collaborate with the film industry in Trinidad and Tobago and contribute to the local creative scene.” Trinidadians are such natural storytellers. There is something magical about our storytelling traditions and the rich history of the steel pan. I would love to see these elements represented more in movies,” Thorne told ESSENCE, expressing her desire to see more Caribbean stories on the big screen. She believes that engaging in programs that promote diverse storytelling can significantly enrich the global film industry.

Thorne also emphasized the importance of introducing young people to the arts, reflecting on how her early experiences in the film industry provided a sense of purpose and direction. She shared her excitement about potential collaborations with the film industry in Trinidad and Tobago and assured that she would first like to delve into the local scene and learn as much as possible.

Thorne credits an introduction to the creative industry during her childhood as providing a sense of purpose and direction. “Acting gave me a deep sense of wholeness and understanding of the world. It’s a powerful tool for empathy and connection,” she said. “Exposing young people to such opportunities can have a profound impact on their emotional and personal development,” she added.

Her family, including her parents, brother and extended family, were present to celebrate her achievement. The actress urged Caribbean entrepreneurs to embrace their passions and commit fully to their endeavours. “Many of you here know what it’s like to work tirelessly toward a goal that, at first, only you can see. In the spirit of entrepreneurship, you understand how much momentum builds once your efforts and contributions are finally recognized and supported,” she said. “Be confident in yourself and present yourself with passion and a willingness to learn,” Thorne advised.

The actress also emphasized the importance of introducing young people to the arts, reflecting on how her early experiences in the film industry provided a sense of purpose and direction. “Acting gave me a deep sense of wholeness and understanding of the world. It is a powerful tool for empathy and connection,” she noted. “Exposing young people to such opportunities can have a profound impact on their emotional and personal development,” she added.

The awards ceremony was an emotional moment of recognition for her achievements and the promise of what is to come. The Minister of Youth Development and National Service, Hon. Foster Cummings expressed the significance of Thorne’s visit to Trinidad and Tobago during a courtesy call, saying, “Your presence here is a national inspiration to young people and a testament to the impact of our diaspora.”

As Thorne continues to break barriers in Hollywood, her award serves as a powerful reminder of the vibrant contributions of the Caribbean diaspora to global arts and culture. It also marks a pivotal point for the star in strengthening the cultural and creative ties between the Caribbean and Hollywood, with the aim of ensuring that the stories, traditions and talents of her heritage are celebrated on the world stage.