Team Biographies
Dr. Latina L. Lightbourne
Founder & President
BA - Psychology
MA - Management and Organizational Behavior
Ed.D - Doctor of Education
Certifications, Additional Training & Awards
Christian Life Coach Certification
Barefoot Mastermind Certification
Life Skills Phase I Certification
Life Skills Phase II Certification
Notary Public - State of Florida
Commission # GG 272123
I fulfill the role of a mother not only to my three biological children but also to the many children that life brings into my journey. Being a parent advocate is my passion, and I strongly advocate for parenting principles to be a part of formal education.
As an educator, I thrive on the joy of learning and teaching, guiding individuals to find purpose and lead fulfilled lives. Entrepreneurship is another facet of my journey; I have initiated, developed, and managed various businesses and take delight in teaching others to do the same.
My professional expertise extends to being a Life Coach, specializing in personal growth, parenting skills, relationship education, and career guidance. I operate a private practice catering to South Florida and the Caribbean, working with a diverse range of clients. In addition to my coaching services, I regularly speak on education, parenting, and home and business management to broader audiences.
Employing a collaborative and solution-focused approach, I serve as a Life Coach, offering practical guidance to address personal life challenges. Through coaching techniques and tailored assignments, I craft individualized programs that leverage strengths for personal growth and success in education, fostering a compassionate and supportive environment to aid in achieving your goals.
Raquel Robinson
Vice-President
BA - Psychology
MA - Psychology
On May 1st, 2018, I became a director at Cleft of the Rock Foundation due to my alignment with their mission and vision. I strongly believe that family plays a crucial role in societal issues and that educating parents, caregivers, and all individuals involved in raising children is essential. My goal is to support the foundation in reaching as many individuals as possible to promote better parenting practices.
My passion for helping others has been a constant in my life. Starting from my teenage years when I supported a friend in need, I've dedicated myself to aiding communities. I've volunteered for various causes, assisting homeless individuals and participating in community projects. My compassionate and patient nature drives me to share these qualities to uplift others.
With a bachelor's degree in psychology specializing in applied behavioral analysis and a minor in criminal justice, alongside a master's degree in psychology specializing in addiction, I aim to become a licensed mental health counselor. Presently, I work as an admissions counselor at a mental health and substance abuse treatment center, guiding individuals towards positive change. My goal is to utilize my expertise to further the goals of the Cleft of the Rock Foundation, focusing on helping its members and the broader community.
Carmen Williams
Secretary
BA - International Business
BAcc - Accounting
BA - Education
MBA - Master, Business Administration
Dip Ed. - Teaching Certification
CM - Certified Manager
CIPM - Certified International Project Manager
Carmen Williams embodies a deep-rooted commitment to her family, viewing her three children as the cornerstone of her world. Her devotion to them fuels her drive and serves as the compass guiding her life's journey. Beyond her familial dedication, Carmen's inherent passion lies in the realm of education. An ardent and constant learner herself, she finds immense joy in the art of teaching.
Carmen's love for exploration aligns perfectly with her broader approach to life: embracing new experiences, seeking knowledge, and valuing the diversity that enriches her perspective. Her island adventures serve as a testament to her curiosity and her desire to immerse herself in the beauty that surrounds her.
Balancing her roles as a devoted mother, an inspiring educator at heart, a dedicated professional, and an adventurous spirit, Carmen Williams encapsulates a multifaceted persona. Her journey is not only about personal growth but also about uplifting and supporting those around her, be it her family, her community, or her colleagues. Her relentless pursuit of learning and her enthusiastic embrace of life's adventures highlight her vibrant and dynamic spirit.
Adnery Velez
Treasurer
Hi, I’m Adnery Velez. I am a mother of two children whom I love and adore. I recently transferred to the University of South Florida Muma College of Business. I am pursuing a Bachelor's Degree in Accounting and ultimately my goal is to become a CPA.
During, this process I was introduced to the Bookkeeping field and I have been passionate about it ever since. Overall, I just love to help clients improve their lives or business through financial literacy. My main goal is to help clients achieve financial freedom to live the life that they really want. Being a part of The Cleft of the Rock Foundation allows me to fulfill my love for parenting and passion for Bookkeeping.
Grantley E. Ifill, J.P.
Board Member
Grantley has worked in the security industry for more than twenty years, having initially served as the General Manager of Migrafill Security International Limited.
This posting afforded him the opportunity of being exposed to all aspects of the security industry in particular with responsibility for 1) Physical Security 2) Incident Response Services 3) Central Station Management 4) Electronic Security Solutions 5) Executive Protection Services 6) Static Guard Services and the company’s aviation wing.
Under Grantley’s leadership it should be noted that Migrafill was selected as the successful vendor, to introduce specialized electronic security solutions for law enforcement, government, commercial and clients.
Grantley has worked closely with and understudied, his father Grafton O. Ifill Sr. ,C.D., QPM,a renowned and respected senior police officer in the Royal Bahamas Police Force. Over the years, he has received a wealth of specialized training in the respective security disciplines throughout the United States, and Canada.
He holds Criminal Justice and Organizational Security and Management Degrees from the University of Phoenix, as well as a coveted Crime Prevention through Environmental Design (CPTED) accreditation from Florida Atlantic University. He is also a Certified Protection Operator specializing in high level Executive Protection. Grantley has been appointed as a Justice of the Peace for the Commonwealth of the Bahamas, is a member of the International Association of Chiefs of Police, American Probation and Parole Association and the founding Chapter Chair of American Association for Industrial Security (ASIS) Bahamas Chapter.
Diamond
E. Newsome
Board Member
Brenda Turner Williams
Brenda Williams, is a noted by her friends as the "Observer"; and teller of "Truths". Her thirst for knowledge is shown by her desire to continuously learn and share knowledge with others. Mrs. Williams is the proud mother of a wonderful Son, two spirited, intelligent and progressive Granddaughters, and a host of added children she has adopted along her journey.
Mrs. Williams is committed to community service and has served in both Miami- Dade and Broward counties for several decades. Her work with Kids in Crisis of Broward County, Family Christian Association of Miami-Dade and Delta Sigma Theta, Inc. spans over 25-years. She has also, provided ongoing monthly mentoring for business students at Florida Memorial University and ";START"; youth groups, in South Miami, Florida. However, her work with Women In Transition, is considered her most rewarding efforts.
Mrs. Williams, has earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology, Masters in Organizational Management and completed course work and competence exams for a Doctorate in Organizational Management with a Specialty in Leadership.Mrs. Williams, is a daughter of the King!! Her commitment to Christ Jesus and HIS love for her outweighs any earthly accomplishments.
Lisa Bryne
Lisa Byrne is a seasoned Coldwell Banker Global Luxury Specialist with a 19-year successful track record in Palm Beach real estate. Raised with core values on an Iowa farm, she advocates for better parenting through COTR. Committed to facilitating seamless property sales, her expertise extends to luxury, residential, second homes, and investment properties. With a unique blend of 20 years in technology development, she excels in project management, market research, and customer experience. Lisa's dedication extends beyond real estate; she cherishes community involvement, leveraging her baking skills to fundraise for various causes like COTR, Habitat for Humanity, and more. Known locally but globally connected, Lisa values relationships, offering referrals worldwide and supporting various charitable organizations and local institutions. She also sponsors and mentors the Boca Raton 4-H Science & Tech Club, fostering a sense of family and learning among high school students through robotics.
Maryangel Hernandez
As a graduate student at Nova Southeastern University, my passion for becoming a nonprofit accountant is deeply rooted in my desire to make a meaningful, enduring impact. I envision a career dedicated to the service of nonprofit organizations, driven by the intrinsic motivation to contribute to causes that benefit society. My goal isn't just professional; it's a personal commitment to lead a fulfilling life by giving back and supporting the greater good.
The prospect of working within a nonprofit setting excites me because it aligns with my values of altruism and the belief that financial stewardship is crucial for these organizations to thrive and serve their communities effectively. I aim to utilize my accounting skills and knowledge to ensure that these nonprofits remain financially stable, enabling them to focus on their core missions without undue financial stress.
Dawn Adderley
Dawn Adderley's life is a testament to the transformative power of resilience, faith, and the pursuit of serving others. As a dedicated wife and stay-at-home mom, she not only prioritizes her family but also extends her passion for community support through part-time work at her church and active involvement in local initiatives. However, her journey took a significant turn when diagnosed with focal epilepsy in 2018, altering her perspective and prompting a profound reevaluation of her priorities.
With a heart filled with empathy and a determination to give back to her community, Dawn stands as a beacon of strength, compassion, and resilience, offering hope and support to those who may be navigating their own difficulties. Her commitment to her family, community, and the uplifting work at COTR signifies her unwavering dedication to making a positive difference and serving as a source of inspiration for others.
Monique Laing
Children are the future – this is not only a good line in a song but also the absolute truth. It is in this vein that I became a partner with the Cleft of The Rock (COTR) Foundation. My background is in teaching - although the more pertinent aspect of my history may be that I have raised three children and am now in the process of raising a fourth. Three of my children are adults, two are in the work environment and one is in university. As I survey them and their lives both at present and in the past, I see that there were many ways in which I could have helped them more had I been helped in parenting. For me, it had been mostly trial and a lot of errors.
The passionate underpinning of COTR is to bring awareness that good parenting is not “caught,” but “taught,” and helping young parents early with resources, assistance and coaching can result in children who will be raised up better than the last generation and so on, and so on. Working with the Curriculum group of COTR will bring this to pass, I believe. The intent is to capture the minds and hearts of young people long before they must even contemplate parenting, and to instill some of the practical applications that relate not only to parenting but to living an abundant life.
I have taught in public, private, and charter schools from the middle to the high school level. Before this, I earned my associate's Degree in English Language and Literature, but recently finished a Bachelor in Inter-Disciplinary Studies (IDS) with a concentration on teaching Creative writing and Literature, and a minor in African Diaspora Studies. Having worked in the education system for more than 14 years, it is my hope that I along with others in COTR, will be able to bring a curriculum to the table that will not only mean better parents in the future but better human beings and communities.
Sapphire Newsome
Children are the future – this is not only a good line in a song but also the absolute truth. It is in this vein that I became a partner with the Cleft of The Rock (COTR) Foundation. My background is in teaching - although the more pertinent aspect of my history may be that I have raised three children and am now in the process of raising a fourth. Three of my children are adults, two are in the work environment and one is in university. As I survey them and their lives both at present and in the past, I see that there were many ways in which I could have helped them more had I been helped in parenting. For me, it had been mostly trial and a lot of errors.
The passionate underpinning of COTR is to bring awareness that good parenting is not “caught,” but “taught,” and helping young parents early with resources, assistance and coaching can result in children who will be raised up better than the last generation and so on, and so on. Working with the Curriculum group of COTR will bring this to pass, I believe. The intent is to capture the minds and hearts of young people long before they must even contemplate parenting, and to instill some of the practical applications that relate not only to parenting but to living an abundant life.
I have taught in public, private, and charter schools from the middle to the high school level. Before this, I earned my associate's Degree in English Language and Literature, but recently finished a Bachelor in Inter-Disciplinary Studies (IDS) with a concentration on teaching Creative writing and Literature, and a minor in African Diaspora Studies. Having worked in the education system for more than 14 years, it is my hope that I along with others in COTR, will be able to bring a curriculum to the table that will not only mean better parents in the future but better human beings and communities.
Rhema Otabor
My name is Rhema Otabor and I’m actively pursuing my Bachelors Degree in Mathematical Science at Florida International University (FIU); and with the knowledge and experience I will acquire while completing my degree, I hope to someday become a successful actuary! I’m a very active person as I’ve competed in many sports over the years and am currently apart of my school’s track & field program as a student-athlete. Also, for me, just about anything pertaining to God, art, animals (mainly the cute ones) and the beach I’ll enjoy.
Yolande H. Rolle
Yolande H. Rolle is Deputy Legal Counsel at the Insurance Commission of The Bahamas (“the Commission”) having joined the Commission in November 2010. At the Commission, Mrs. Rolle is an integral part of the Commission’s work in AML/CFT/CPF related matters, and has been instrumental in responding to international and regional bodies such as the FATF, CFATF, and the OECD, particularly on matters related to AML/CFT in the insurance industry. She represents the Commission on the Identified Risk Framework Steering Committee and at CFATF Plenary Meetings.
Mrs. Rolle has presented at AML/CFT conferences and industry briefings, and has participated as a panelist in several “Meet the Regulator” national industry meetings.
Prior to joining the Commission, Mrs. Rolle served as a Prosecutor in the Office of the Attorney General.
(OAG). She also worked briefly in the International Cooperation Unit at the OAG where her responsibilities included responding to enquiries from foreign counterparts in relation to involving money laundering and proceeds of crime.
Mrs. Rolle has been trained as an Expert Assessor for Mutual Evaluations of the Caribbean Financial Action Task Force (CFATF). She holds an International Diploma in Compliance and Anti-Money Laundering from the International Compliance Association. She serves on the Board of Directors of the ACAMS Bahamas Chapter. She has attended numerous AML/CFT training seminars and conferences both locally and internationally.
She is a Member of Chartered Institute of Arbitration, having attained the Advanced Certificate in International Arbitration. Currently, she serves as a member of the Executive Commitee of the CIArb Bahamas Branch. She is also a member of the International Society of Female Professionals.
Before entering the legal profession, Mrs. Rolle worked in the communications field as a public relations specialist for over 10 years. She is a graduate of American University, Washington, D. C., and Nova Southeastern University, Florida, having obtained a Bachelor of Arts in Public Communications, and Master of Business Administration, respectively. She is a gradate of the University of the West Indies and the Eugene Dupuch Law School. In 2007, she was called to Bahamas Bar. She presently serves on the Ethics Committee of the Bahamas Bar Association.
Za'riah Laing
“Children learn more from what you are than what you teach” (W.E.B. DuBois). Who one is, is shaped by what one learns. Cleft of the Rock Foundation provides the necessary support and education to assist in determining the kind of parent a person will become. I am a sophomore at Florida Atlantic University majoring in Exercise Science and Health Promotion. At first glance my major may not appear to relate to the vision and mission of Cleft of the Rock Foundation, however, I believe it’s my responsibility to not only promote the nutrition and exercise side of health, but also the mental and relationship aspect. I, Za’riah Laing, as an Intern, intend to assist in building awareness concerning the importance of parental education, and to increase this foundation’s reach into the wider community.
Rona Kirby
Rona Kirby is a graduate of Bryan College with a Bachelor of Arts in Christian Education/Church Music. She is the wife of almost 20 years to her amazing husband, Rick, mom to six incredible kids, mother-in-law to a very precious daughter-in-law, and grandmother to the most beautiful granddaughter on earth.
Learning is her passion, and she lives that passion out daily as she continues to classically educate four of the children at home. She loves language, speaks Portuguese fluently, and is daily inspired by teaching Latin to her children. Discendo discimus – while teaching, we learn. In teaching her own kids, Rona is certain that she is the one learning the most! Reading great books is another one of Rona’s enjoyments, and on a summer day you might find her in the hammock in her back yard reading A Tale of Two Cities, one of her absolute favorites.
Erica E. Harris, PhD, CPA
Erica E. Harris, PhD, CPA is an Associate Professor of accounting at Florida International University’s School of Accounting. She was awarded a Fulbright Scholarship to study Irish nonprofit organizations at Dublin City University during the summer of 2022. Prior to her appointment she was named the Andrew J. Melton Jr. Associate Professor of accounting at Villanova University and also served as an Assistant Professor of accounting at Rutgers University, Camden. She received her PhD from Temple University, MBA from the University of Miami, and BS from the University of Florida. Her research interests include nonprofit accounting and governance, with a specific focus on donor behaviors. She has published in leading accounting and nonprofit journals such as The Accounting Review, Contemporary Accounting Research, Review of Accounting Studies, and Nonprofit Voluntary Sector Quarterly. Professor Harris is on the editorial board of the Journal of Governmental and Non-profit Accounting Research, Accounting Horizons, as well as Nonprofit Voluntary Sector Quarterly. Professional honors include Temple University Best Dissertation Award, Sigma Tau Phi Graduate Award in Accounting, American Accounting Association Government and Nonprofit Section Best Paper Awards, Rutgers University School of Business Camden Outstanding Research Award, Villanova School of Business McDonough Family Faculty Research Award, and Florida International University Professional MBA program Best Course and Best Instructor. Erica is also active in the American Accounting Association Government and Nonprofit Section serving as PhD liaison responsible for section grants and student/new faculty events as well as past meeting coordinator. Prior to her academic career, Dr. Harris worked as a staff auditor for KPMG in Miami, Florida, Accounting Controller at Breakstone Homes in Coral Gables, Florida, and served as Vice President of Accounting at Treasure Coast Hospices, a nonprofit healthcare organization in Stuart, Florida.
Dainelle Wilson
Hello, my name is Dainelle Wilson. I was born in Miami, FL. I graduated from FAU with Biological Science/Pre-Med degree with a minor in Spanish in 2009. I taught science and math at the Palm Beach School for Autism in Lakeworth, FL for 3 years. I went back to school for a baccalaureate degree in nursing, graduated in 2018, and now work at the VA hospital. I have studied abroad in Spain at the University of Barcelona and have done medical missions trips to El Salvador and Dominican Republic. I enjoy gardening and traveling. I’m a big advocate for children and providing a safe and healthy environment that will promote physical, mental, spiritual, and emotional growth.
Lesvie Archer
Personality: Loving, Sincere, Smart, Helpful, and Hardworking, are examples of the adjectives I hope others use to describe me upon first impression: a love for life, people and God (Abba) guides my interactions with others; a sincere belief in systematic betterment of humanity keeps me connected to COTR; intelligence and helpfulness births from my intrinsic commitment to resourceful servant leadership; and lastly, my hardworking nature reflects an indebtedness and gratitude to those who came before me, and an ever-provoking sense of responsibility to enhance their work and continue their legacy.
Profession: I have earned degrees in Spanish, International Tourism and Hospitality, and Marketing, which collectively reflect my passion for developing cordial and wholehearted connections with others to achieve specific goals. This passion has guided my professional experience towards sales and marketing, conference planning and event management, and grant writing and teaching. As a curious and committed critical thinker and teacher, I currently work as a university researcher, and enjoy addressing major public policy matters that demonstrate local and global impact.
Personal Life: I have lived and worked in six countries over the last 15 years, building my international experience and exposure, and becoming more aware that we human beings are all searching for the same thing in life, albeit through different pathways. I dream to travel more, especially with my family and genuinely believe that if one travels without curiosity, that one, might as well stay home. To be honest, though, being at home with my husband and children proves to be as dream-fulfilling, adventurous and exciting as travel itself.
Mia Cooper
My name is Mia Cooper. I currently attend Queen’s College High School in The Bahamas. I am a straight A student, achieving an outstanding performance in the 2020 Bahamas Junior Certificate Examinations. After I graduate, I would like to study medicine and become a Dermatologist and own a skin care company creating skin care and cosmetic products that cater to people with sensitive skin like mine. One of my many passions is helping people and I discovered this at an early age. The feeling of giving to others and making their day just a little bit better has always made me feel good and I hope to do that at the Cleft of The Rock Foundation.
Kelis Richard
Kelis is a dedicated female Front-End Developer with a keen passion for creating visually appealing and user-friendly websites. Currently pursuing a degree in Cyber Security and Information Management at St. Petersburg College, Kelis possesses a diverse skill set that spans across various IT domains, ranging from Networking Administration to proficiency in web development platforms. Her primary areas of expertise and interest lie in web development and cybersecurity, where she continually honed her skills to stay abreast of the latest industry trends.
Outside the realm of technology, Kelis finds joy in exploring new destinations through her love for travel. Moreover, she actively contributes to social causes, particularly supporting charity gala events focused on combating human trafficking and aiding vulnerable children. Kelis is not just a tech enthusiast but also a socially conscious individual who seeks to make a positive impact beyond the digital landscape.
Chwoeger Charleston
My name is Chwoeger (Sh-way-gr) Charleston. I am currently pursuing my Computer Science degree at Florida Atlantic University. I proudly carry my Haitian heritage and the influence of South Florida in my background. My expertise is woven through diverse software engineering realms, ranging from web to mobile app development. As the web design intern at Cleft of the Rock Foundation, I'm honored to channel my skills and enthusiasm into crafting innovative solutions. For me, the joy of problem-solving and the art of translating conceptual ideas into impactful digital solutions define my journey.
