Entrepreneur Nola Rodney unveils Mental Health initiative for New York’s Caribbean Diaspora

Nola Rodney, a Guyanese-born entrepreneur and owner of Waterfall Lounge Bar & Grill in Brooklyn, is set to launch a pioneering mental health initiative tailored for the Guyanese diaspora. Her innovative ‘Mental Care’ program, slated to commence before the year’s end, is a testament to her unwavering commitment to community service.

The Waterfall Lounge Bar & Grill is located at 4703 Church Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11203. Photo by Tracey Khana

Growing up in Soesdyke Linden, Rodney understands the challenges facing Caribbean communities, particularly around mental health. “Statistics show that Caribbean people often struggle to address emotional and mental health issues,” she stated.

She explained that this initiative is a crucial step towards creating a supportive, stigma-free environment for those in need, with a focus on providing free resources to underserved neighborhoods. ‘Accessibility is paramount,’ she stressed, underscoring the situation’s urgency. She also highlighted the significant support from community donors.

Rodney is also launching workshops focused on tech and digital literacy, followed by financial literacy programs designed to empower the Guyanese community amid rapid technological advancements.

Continuing her family’s legacy of activism—her mother, Doris Rodney, is well-known for her philanthropic work—Nola aims to create structured programs for Guyanese in New York. “My goal is always to create a pipeline back home,” she said, highlighting the need for mental health awareness in the Caribbean, where trauma and PTSD often go undiagnosed.

President Irfaan Ali (center) with Nola’s mother, Doris Rodney, and brother. Photo by TkACTN Media

Rodney has garnered support from Guyana’s President Irfaan Ali, whom she recently hosted at her lounge to discuss her plans. She is eager to build partnerships to enhance her initiatives and invite further community involvement. “My focus is on solutions and making a positive change,” she asserted.

Rodney’s mental health initiative and future tech and finance programs promise to be a vital resource for the Guyanese community in New York. For more information or to support her efforts, contact Nola at [email protected].