DVoices Success: Celebrating, Inspiring and Supporting Education in the Dominican Republic
DVoices: Celebration, Inspiration and Support for Education in the Dominican Republic
New York, U.S. – On October 20th, the first edition of DVoices took place, an event aimed at bringing together outstanding young Dominicans in the fields of fashion, entertainment, and business, as well as those excelling in their career ventures in the United States. The event successfully achieved its goal while benefiting DREAM Project, a non-profit organization that supports 6,500 children and youth from vulnerable communities on the northern coast of the Dominican Republic through quality educational programs.
The creators of this event, Carlos Lamarche and Waldo Tejada, provided a valuable space for both celebration and conversation where various talented individuals shared their experiences and challenges of finding success in careers where few Latinos have been allowed access.
Carlos Lamarche excitedly commented, "I always dreamed that events like these would exist, and finally, it's here. This was created for the new generation of Dominicans, for the youth, so they have role models that they can identify with and know that they too can make it."
The evening began with a panel discussion featuring incredible panelists, including Raúl López (fashion designer), Osmany Rodríguez (filmmaker and Saturday Night Live producer), Lulu Cordero (founder of Bomba Curls), and Maritza Abreu (founder of Pisqueya), moderated by Johanna Ferreira (POPSUGAR Juntos Content Director), all young individuals of Dominican descent who broke barriers to achieve their dreams. Their contributions resulted in a brilliant night.
The event continued with a cocktail reception that provided a valuable opportunity for networking. In appreciation for her contribution, support, and collaboration with DREAM Project, an award was presented to Dascha Polanco by the honorable Congressman Adriano Espaillat.
Aida Rodríguez, with her charisma and sense of humor, closed the event with a monologue radiating with warmth and joy of Dominican culture. We appreciate her words of encouragement to the attendees to contribute to DREAM’s vital work.
This exceptional event had the special participation of Ariarqui Cuevas, a former student of the DREAM Montessori Academy, who began her education with The DREAM Project at the age of 3. In her speech, she shared how her participation in early educational programs helped shape her into the person she is today.
The event concluded by raising $50,000, which will be allocated to the Montessori Academy, aiming to establish an environment where children can grow and develop at their own pace while fostering play and exploration in a safe learning environment.
Cledenin Veras, executive director of DREAM Project, stated, "This event is a testament to the unity and support of the Dominican community in the United States. Thanks to the passion and dedication of all involved. This is a significant milestone in our commitment to transforming education in the Dominican Republic."
DREAM Project extends gratitude to all participants, sponsors, and attendees for their generous support and contribution to this noble cause. The positive impact of education on children and youth in the Dominican Republic is undeniable, and DVoices has established itself as an event that celebrates not only Dominican talent in the US but also the ability to inspire and create meaningful change through education.
