Robert Nesta Marley Humanitarian Award
Nicole Commissiong epitomizes the essence of success as both a visionary business entrepreneur and a dedicated community activist. Hailing from Trinidad and Tobago and a devoted mother of four, Nicole currently serves as the Co-founder and COO of Dynamic Service Solutions (DSS), a flourishing multi-million-dollar corporation boasting a staff of over 400 individuals.
At DSS, Nicole leads with distinction, spearheading large-scale, high-impact infrastructure projects spanning engineering, emergency management, and shelter operations. The company’s sterling reputation extends as a trusted advisor to prestigious U.S. agencies such as FEMA, HHS, and the Department of Defense. Guided by its foundational principles of Restoring Dignity, Delivering Excellence, and Ensuring Safety, DSS stands at the forefront of innovation and service.
Nicole’s entrepreneurial journey began at the age of 29 when she co-founded Secure Communications alongside her husband, marking a significant milestone as the first Tier 1 Black woman vendor for Verizon’s Mid-Atlantic region. The company’s focus on engineering and installation services played a pivotal role in constructing telecommunications and power infrastructure.
Beyond her professional endeavors, Nicole is a passionate advocate for women and community empowerment. She actively supports the Inkwell Society, dedicated to promoting and financing films that illuminate the rich tapestry of the African American experience in the United States.
Nicole’s commitment to social impact extends to Senegal, The Gambia and other West African nations as a dedicated partner at TOSTAN, a nonprofit organization dedicated to igniting transformative change within communities. With an unwavering commitment to empowering individuals and fostering movements that champion dignity for all, Nicole tirelessly advocates for their community-driven development and transformative education.
Through her company, Nicole’s commitment to community engagement shines. She spearheads initiatives to uplift local schools and families, providing mentorship, technology access, and organizing efforts to combat food insecurity. Her dedication to fostering thriving neighborhoods is a testament to her commitment to social impact.
Her unwavering support for her alma mater in Trinidad underscores her dedication to equipping students with the tools for global competitiveness and holistic development, including support for high school athletes.
Drawing from her personal experiences as an international student at Howard University, Nicole established a scholarship exclusively for Caribbean students, providing invaluable support for their academic journey.
Nicole’s dedication to community engagement is further evidenced through her involvement in various programs, including her membership in the Cursillo movement, her support for the Nova Kairos Prison Ministry, and her mentorship of women in business ventures, emphasizing progress over perfection.
Nicole’s pursuit of knowledge is reflected in her academic achievements, having studied Organizational Leadership at Harvard Business School Women’s Leadership Forum, she also attended Howard University School of Business and Strayer University.
Throughout her remarkable journey, Nicole finds unwavering support from her loving husband and family, who stand as pillars of strength in her pursuit of excellence and social impact.