Jamaican Born Mayor Denise Grant Honored by the Government of Guyana
Jamaican born Lauderhill Mayor Denise D. Grant has received recognition from the Government of Guyana for her public service and support of the Caribbean community in South Florida. The award recognizes her work in building stronger ties with the Caribbean diaspora, supporting cultural events, and encouraging closer relationships between local government and community groups.
Grant, who was born in Christiana, Manchester, Jamaica, received the Recognition Award during the Guyana Day SoFlo 2026 celebrations. The presentation was made by Guyana’s Honorary Consul, Ramzan Roshanali, on behalf of the Consulate of the Cooperative Republic of Guyana.
Recognition for Caribbean Leadership
The award recognizes Grant’s leadership in supporting Caribbean communities and promoting cultural inclusion in Lauderhill. It also acknowledges her support for Guyana Day SoFlo 2026, an annual event that celebrates Guyana’s independence and culture.
The recognition reflects her efforts to work with Caribbean organizations and strengthen connections between local government and residents from across the region.
A City with Strong Jamaican Roots
Lauderhill is home to one of South Florida’s largest Caribbean populations. Residents come from many islands and countries across the region, including Jamaica, Guyana, Trinidad and Tobago, Haiti, and others.
The city’s diverse population has led to many cultural events and community partnerships throughout the year. Guyanese residents have become an active part of that community, making Guyana Day SoFlo an important event on the local calendar.
Grant has supported programs that encourage residents from different backgrounds to take part in civic life while celebrating their heritage.
Service as Mayor
Grant became Mayor of Lauderhill in November 2025 after previously serving as Vice Mayor and City Commissioner beginning in 2018.
Since taking office, her administration has focused on economic development, community engagement, infrastructure planning, and support for small businesses. The city has also continued efforts to expand cultural programs that reflect the many communities that call Lauderhill home.
Her administration has promoted partnerships between government, businesses, and community organizations as part of its approach to city leadership.
Support for Small Businesses
Economic development has remained one of the priorities of Grant’s administration.
The city has worked with banking and financial partners to improve access to funding for small businesses and entrepreneurs. These efforts have included programs designed to help local businesses grow and create new opportunities within the community.
The administration has also supported workforce programs and long term planning aimed at strengthening Lauderhill’s business districts.
Community Programs and City Planning
Grant has also been involved in projects focused on public services and neighborhood improvement.
Her administration has supported programs related to public health, senior services, community engagement, building inspections, public safety, and environmental improvements.
The city’s long term planning efforts include goals for housing, economic growth, and infrastructure improvements to meet the needs of a growing population.
Regional and International Involvement
In addition to her work in Lauderhill, Grant has participated in several regional and international organizations that focus on local government and civic leadership.
Her work has included involvement with sister city programs and municipal organizations that encourage cooperation between cities and communities.
She has also received international recognition in the past for work connected to sustainable community development.
A Jamaican Born Leader Making an Impact
Grant’s recognition by the Government of Guyana highlights the role Caribbean leaders continue to play across South Florida. As a Jamaican born mayor serving one of the region’s most diverse cities, she has worked with organizations representing many Caribbean communities while supporting cultural events that bring residents together.
The award also reflects the close relationship between South Florida and the Caribbean, where many elected officials, community leaders, and residents continue to build partnerships that extend beyond national borders.