Black Panther star Dominique Thorne honored with inaugural Diaspora Award in Trinidad

“Black Panther: Wakanda Forever,” star Dominique Thorne has been honored with the inaugural Diaspora Award in Trinidad, a recognition celebrating her accomplishments and representation of the Caribbean in Hollywood.

The award ceremony, which took place during Thorne’s visit to her parents’ homeland, underscored her deep connection to her heritage and the significance of her achievements for the Caribbean community. The National Entrepreneurship Development Company Limited (NEDCO) hosted the event in Port of Spain on Saturday, August 3.

In an interview with Caribbean Life, Thorne expressed her gratitude and humility at being chosen as the first recipient of the Diaspora Award. “I thought even just the placement, the addition of this award into NEDCO’s program, was so thoughtful and just really telling about the kind of forward thinkers that exist here,” she said.

Reflecting on the honor, she shared how the experience allowed her to pause and appreciate her journey. “You always hear people say, ‘I’m so humbled’ when they are giving a speech, and I feel like I never fully understood what that meant until this,” she remarked. “It does require that you do some level of reflection. It sits you down and makes you pause and appreciate how much has happened.”

The 26-year-old first-generation American has made significant strides in her career, including the role of Riri Williams/Ironheart in the Marvel Cinematic Universe. She also starred in “If Beale Street Could Talk” and “Judas and the Black Messiah.”

When asked what drives her to keep pushing boundaries, she attributed her motivation to the mindset instilled in her by her parents and her experiences growing up in Brooklyn’s Little Caribbean. “They made it clear that I could do whatever I wanted, and I could live the type of life that I wanted to,” she said.

Her Caribbean heritage, deeply rooted in her upbringing, has significantly influenced her work and approach to Hollywood. Thorne emphasized the importance of taking pride in her work and presentation, values ingrained in her from a young age. “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,” she explained.

Thorne also expressed her desire to serve as a bridge between Hollywood and the Caribbean, supporting people and organizations committed to celebrating Caribbean culture. “It’s about doing the very best that I can at this level and carrying the flag with pride and honor,” she stated.

As a creative entrepreneur, she never anticipated dealing with tasks like hiring staff, managing lawyers, or overseeing a team. However, her journey has made her deeply connected to the recognition of creative entrepreneurship.

The Hollywood actress’ family, including her parents, youngest brother, several aunts, uncles, cousins, and grandfather, were present to celebrate this significant milestone with her. The actress advised Caribbean entrepreneurs to trust their passions and show up fully in their pursuits. “If you feel that burning desire to get this thing out there, to get it off the ground, continue to trust yourself,” she advised. “Show up fully, humbly, passionately, and with a spirit of learning.”

As Thorne continues to make waves in Hollywood, her recognition and celebration in Trinidad serve as a powerful testament to the impact of the Caribbean diaspora on the global stage.

NEDCO, a state-owned agency under the Ministry of Youth Development and National Service, aims to lead the Micro and Small Enterprises (MSE) sector. Its vision is to foster an entrepreneurial culture that drives wealth creation and national development, focusing on youth development and entrepreneurship.