Leadership Team

Danielle A. Martin serves as President of the Houston Caribbean Professionals Association, where she is committed to advancing member engagement, fostering strategic partnerships, and developing programs that promote professional growth, entrepreneurship, and community impact. With roots in Nevis, she is passionate about increasing visibility, strengthening connections, and creating opportunities for Caribbean professionals and businesses. Professionally, Danielle is a global business development and commercial strategy leader in the renewable fuels industry. She specializes in developing markets for sustainable, drop-in fuels that are compatible with today’s engines and infrastructure, helping translate emerging technologies into practical commercial opportunities across motorsports, on-road transportation, sustainable aviation fuel, and specialty chemicals.

Danielle holds a Bachelor of Science in Chemical Engineering from Drexel University and a Master of Business Administration (MBA) from Duke University. She brings a unique blend of technical expertise, commercial insight, and community-focused leadership to every role she undertakes. Passionate about the power of collaboration, Danielle is recognized for connecting people, ideas, and opportunities to drive innovation, strengthen communities, and create lasting impact.

Frederick Dubique proudly represents the Commonwealth of Dominica and serves as Treasurer of the Houston Caribbean Professionals Association. He brings a strong commitment to professional excellence, community service, and entrepreneurship, contributing valuable leadership and financial stewardship to the organization. Professionally, Frederick is an experienced Engineering Technician specializing in corrosion management and asset integrity with Honeywell. His work focuses on supporting the safety, reliability, and longevity of critical industrial infrastructure through technical expertise and operational excellence. In addition to his corporate career, Frederick is the Founder and CEO of Affordable Working Solutions (AWS), a logistics and freight services company that provides ocean shipping solutions throughout the Caribbean and beyond. Through AWS, he helps families and businesses stay connected by facilitating the transportation of barrels, containers, and essential goods across international borders. Frederick has dedicated many years to community leadership through the Dominica Houston Association, where he has served in several leadership roles, including Fundraising Chair and President. In these positions, he helped mobilize resources, strengthen community engagement, and advance initiatives that positively impacted the Dominican and wider Caribbean communities.

Guided by the principles of service, reliability, communication, and follow-through, Frederick remains passionate about creating meaningful connections, empowering communities, and advancing opportunities for Caribbean professionals throughout the Greater Houston area.

Danielle Emerald Smith is a second-generation Jamaican American and a graduate of the University of Phoenix. She brings more than 20 years of experience in customer service management, complemented by strong project management expertise that has contributed to her success as a Realtor. Passionate about helping individuals and families navigate the Houston real estate market, Danielle is committed to providing exceptional service while empowering her clients to make informed and confident decisions. She is known for building meaningful relationships and delivering a client-focused experience rooted in trust, professionalism, and integrity. In addition to her professional career, Danielle is deeply committed to her family and community. As Co-Chair of the Marketing Committee for the Houston Caribbean Professionals Association, she is dedicated to enhancing member engagement, strengthening the organization’s brand, and maximizing the value and benefits of HCPA membership.

Ramona Toussaint is a dynamic leader, entrepreneur, and U.S. Army Combat Veteran who brings a unique blend of discipline, resilience, and cultural passion to the Houston Caribbean Professionals Association. As Marketing Chair and Corresponding/Recording Secretary, she plays a key role in shaping the organization’s brand presence, communications, and strategic outreach, supporting HCPA’s continued growth and impact across the Caribbean diaspora in Houston and beyond. With a background as a trained Physician Assistant, Ramona combines clinical expertise with creative vision in all her endeavors. She is the founder and owner of Proppah Tingz LLCTM, along with Proppah PunchTM and Tingz MasTM, brands dedicated to celebrating and promoting Caribbean culture through experiences, events, and lifestyle products. Affectionately known as “Mz. Proppah,” she has built a platform that connects communities while highlighting the vibrancy and diversity of Caribbean identity. Born and raised in the Bronx, New York, Ramona proudly represents her Caribbean heritage, with her mother from Dominica and her father from Martinique. Her cultural foundation continues to shape both her personal journey and professional mission, driving her commitment to unity, representation, and cultural preservation. Ramona served as a Physician Assistant in the United States Army, including two deployments to Iraq. Following her transition from clinical practice, she redirected her passion for service into entrepreneurship, mentorship, and advocacy. She is also a Mental Health Advocate, Certified Soldier Coach, and Disabled Veteran Mentor dedicated to supporting fellow veterans and strengthening her community. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Biology from Morgan State University and her Bachelor of Science in Physician Assistant Studies from the New York Institute of Technology.

Deeply committed to culture, connection, and impact, Ramona strives to create spaces where Caribbean professionals and entrepreneurs can thrive. Outside of her professional work, she enjoys wine tastings, museums, cultural events, concerts, and comedy shows and can often be found on the dance floor. Most importantly, she cherishes spending time with her three nephews and loved ones.

Phelecia Scotland, PhD, serves as Chair of the Give to Serve Committee, where she leads initiatives that promote community service, volunteerism, and meaningful outreach to strengthen and uplift the Caribbean community.

Phelecia holds a doctorate in Materials Science and NanoEngineering from Rice University, where her research focused on energy storage, advanced materials synthesis, and PFAS remediation. She earned her bachelor’s degree in Chemistry, with a minor in Mathematics, from Midwestern State University. Professionally, Phelecia serves on the New Product Development team at SLB, where she develops innovative chemical solutions for enhanced oil recovery (EOR). Her work combines scientific research with practical applications to advance energy technologies and address complex industry challenges. Proud of her Dominican heritage, Phelecia values the resilience, innovation, and strong sense of community that define Caribbean culture. She is passionate about using her knowledge and leadership to make a meaningful impact through service, education, and innovation. Through her work with the Houston Caribbean Professionals Association, Phelecia is committed to fostering a spirit of volunteerism, building stronger communities, and creating opportunities to serve those in need while advancing solutions that benefit both people and the environment.

Noel Rock serves as Vice President, where he provides leadership and oversight for the organization’s committees, including Give2Serve, Education, Fundraising, and Membership. Passionate about service and community engagement, Noel is dedicated to strengthening the Houston Caribbean community through initiatives that promote fellowship, education, and meaningful impact. Proudly representing the island of Barbados, Noel believes in the power of service to create lasting change. As a father, he is committed to instilling the values of leadership, scholarship, and community involvement in his son while inspiring others to make a positive difference through volunteerism and civic engagement. Noel earned a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from the State University of New York (SUNY) at Old Westbury and is currently pursuing a master’s degree in Forensic Psychology. He has also been a proud member of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc. since 2003. Through his leadership, Noel remains committed to empowering others, fostering collaboration, and advancing the organization’s mission of serving and uplifting the Caribbean community.

Dnika Joseph, PA-C, serves as Chair of the Membership Committee, where she is dedicated to fostering a welcoming and engaging environment for members while strengthening connections within the Caribbean professional community. A public health physician assistant based in Houston, Dnika specializes in women’s health and is passionate about health education, community service, and improving access to quality healthcare. She is committed to advancing public health initiatives and empowering individuals through education, advocacy, and compassionate care. Proud of her Trinidad and Tobago heritage, Dnika values the culture, resilience, and sense of community that have shaped her commitment to service and leadership. She is passionate about creating opportunities for Caribbean professionals to connect, collaborate, and thrive. Since relocating to Houston in 2020, Dnika has remained actively involved in volunteer service, including with the Junior League of The Woodlands. Prior to moving to Texas, she volunteered with several health and community-focused organizations in Birmingham, Alabama, including a Caribbean community organization, an HIV prevention initiative, the American Cancer Society, and the Ronald McDonald House. These experiences have strengthened her dedication to serving others and supporting underserved communities. Through her leadership, Dnika is committed to building meaningful relationships, enhancing member engagement, and creating a welcoming environment where individuals feel connected, supported, and empowered while advancing the mission of the organization.

Shaquilla Thomas serves as Co-Chair of the Give to Serve Committee, where she helps lead initiatives that promote health, wellness, and meaningful community impact. Her professional background spans operations and project management within the manufacturing and oil and gas industries. Known for her hands-on leadership style, Shaquilla excels in fast-paced environments, bringing structure, organization, and strategic problem-solving to complex projects. Her service in the U.S. Army further

strengthened her discipline, adaptability, and ability to lead with purpose under pressure. Born in the U.S. Virgin Islands with roots in Antigua, Shaquilla spent her early childhood immersed in the rich culture of the Caribbean. These experiences continue to shape her cultural pride, resilience, and passion for serving others. Beyond her professional career and involvement with the Houston Caribbean Professionals Association, Shaquilla is an entrepreneur and event planner who enjoys transforming ideas into memorable experiences with creativity and intention. She is also passionate about personal development, financial empowerment, and creating opportunities that uplift individuals and strengthen communities. Shaquilla believes in leading with authenticity, purpose, and impact, and she is dedicated to making a positive difference wherever she serves.