I remember the tales my grandfather told me. Of the brave Haitian man, born into slavery, who fought with his brothers and sisters to throw off the shackles of their masters. That brave man, who crowned himself a king, created an inspiring Royal Court filled with love and music. He desired to create a Black kingdom never seen in the New World.

It wasn't a fictional story; it was my family's story.

The Tale of Henry Christophe: A King Born from Resistance

The life and legacy of King Henry Christophe of Haiti inspired me at every step of my life. I was proud to have such dignified and royal blood flowing through my veins. The stories told as a child shaped my mindset as a teenager and, later, as an adult. Through strength, wisdom, and power, we can overcome any obstacles, dream the impossible, and never let others define who we are. 

The Birth and Mission of the Kingdom of Navassa

The Kingdom of Navassa was formally established on September 13, 2017. My royal forebear and the legacy of the former Kingdom of Haiti wholly inspired me. Under my leadership, we’ve launched creative initiatives, from Flower City Queens, the first-ever calendar celebrating Greater Rochester, New York, to Crown Sirène Coffee, whole coffee beans sustainably sourced from the mountains of northern Haiti. I’ve always believed in giving back to the communities that have shaped and defined me, so I wanted to use these initiatives to support projects and programs committed to creating a more equitable society.

Over the years, what began as a budding interest has blossomed into a lifelong dedication to serving communities. It also inspired and empowered me. As a Black trans woman, I know people like me are often treated as second-class citizens, if not worse. But in my veins is the blood of people who resisted oppression: activists, soldiers, leaders - even a man born into slavery who died as a king.

The Kingdom of Navassa reminds me of my forebears' remarkable history and legacy. It is also a reminder for us all to use strength, wisdom, and virtue to persevere against all odds.

Welcome to Navassa.