Empowering West African Families to Thrive
ROZA Promotions builds stronger families through cultural preservation, economic
advancement, and comprehensive community support programs rooted in West
African values.
History of ROZA Promotions, Inc.
ROZA Promotions, Inc. (ROZA) was established in Staten Island in February1994 during a wave of West African refugee resettlement, particularly from Liberia, Sierra Leone, Ghana, and Guinea. Many of the new arrivals had limited prior schooling, and approximately 85% of refugee children were functioning below grade level. This created an urgent need for academic and social support to prevent school failure and negative youth outcomes.
One-Time Gift
Make a single donation to support our programs
Monthly Giving
Become a sustaining donor with recurring support
Volunteer
Share your time and skills with our community
ROZA Promotions, Inc. is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. All donations are tax-deductible to the fullest extent allowed by law.
Building Community, Preserving Heritage
ROZA Promotions, Inc. (ROZA) was established in Staten Island in February 1981 during a wave of West African refugee resettlement, particularly from Liberia, Sierra Leone, Ghana, and Guinea. Many of the new arrivals had limited prior schooling, and approximately 85% of refugee children were functioning below grade level. This created an urgent need for academic and social support to prevent school failure and negative youth outcomes.
The organization was established by Mr. Rufus Arkoi, a Liberian community leader who had previously created a successful youth soccer and community program in Liberia in 1981. Building on a community needs assessment, an NYU Trauma Center study, and his own observations, Mr. Arkoi developed after-school programs focused on academic improvement, homework assistance, and personal development.
30+
Years of Service
500+
Families Served
100%
Community Driven
50+
Annual Programs
Comprehensive Community Support
From education to entrepreneurship, health to heritage—we provide holistic support designed to
meet the diverse needs of our community members at every stage of life.
Education & Youth Support
Tutoring, mentorship, and scholarship
programs helping young people achieve their
academic goals and reach their full potential.
Economic Empowerment
Business training, financial literacy
workshops, and entrepreneurship support for
economic independence and growth.
Health & Wellness
Healthcare navigation, wellness workshops,
and mental health support tailored to our
community’s unique needs.
Cultural Events
Festivals, performances, and gatherings that
celebrate and preserve West African
traditions and heritage.
Family Support Services
Counseling, immigration assistance, and
resources to strengthen family bonds,
stability, and unity.
Social Integration
Language classes, cultural orientation, and
networking events to build lasting community
connections.
Your Journey With ROZA
From your first connection to achieving your goals, we’re with you every step of the way.
Connect With Us
Reach out through our community center, events, or online. We welcome all West African families seeking support and connection.
Discover Resources
Explore our comprehensive programs designed to meet your unique needs—from education to economic empowerment.
Join the Community
Participate in workshops, cultural events, and support groups. Build lasting relationships with fellow community members.
Grow & Thrive
Achieve your goals with ongoing support, mentorship, and access to resources that help you and your family succeed.
Meet the People Behind Our Mission
Our dedicated team brings decades of combined experience in community
development, cultural preservation, and social services.
Fati Vuillumey
Cultural Program Manager
Rev. Wellesley Ferguson
Chairman, Board of Directors
Rufus Z. Arkoi
Founder & Executive Director
Edwina Marley-Tarr
Community Outreach Coordinator
Making a Real Difference
Our work creates lasting change in the lives of West African families, strengthening our
community one family at a time.
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Families Supported
across Staten Island
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Cultural Events Hosted
celebrating heritage
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Years Serving
Community
celebrating heritage
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Programs Each Year
empowering lives
Community Stories
Hear from the families and individuals whose lives have been transformed through our
programs.
“ROZA helped my family navigate the
challenges of settling in America while
staying connected to our roots. The
support we received was life-changing.”
Amina Thompson
Community Member
“The business training program gave me
the confidence and skills to start my own
enterprise. ROZA believes in our potential
and invests in our success.”
Ibrahim Kamara
Entrepreneur
“Through ROZA’s youth programs, my
children have grown confident in their
identity and proud of their heritage. This
organization is truly a blessing.”
Fatou Diallo
Parent & Volunteer
Heritage & Culture in Action
Celebrating the rich traditions, vibrant spirit, and shared experiences that define our
West African community.
Join Us at Our Next Event
Connect with your community through workshops, celebrations, and meaningful
gatherings.
Annual Cultural Heritage Festival
2:00 PM - 8:00 PM
Staten Island Community Center
Join us for music, dance, food, and
celebration of West African culture and
traditions.
Youth Mentorship Workshop
6:00 PM - 8:00 PM
ROZA Center
Interactive sessions connecting youth with
community leaders and successful
professionals.
Small Business Development Seminar
7:00 PM - 9:00 PM
Virtual & In-Person
Learn strategies for launching and growing
your business with expert guidance and
resources.
Questions? We've Got Answers
Find answers to common questions about our programs,
services, and how we support the West African community.
Who can access ROZA Promotions services?
Our programs are designed primarily for West African
immigrant families on Staten Island, but we welcome
anyone seeking to connect with our community, learn
about West African culture, or support our mission.
Are your programs free?
Our programs are designed primarily for West African
immigrant families on Staten Island, but we welcome
anyone seeking to connect with our community, learn
about West African culture, or support our mission.
How can I get involved or volunteer?
Our programs are designed primarily for West African
immigrant families on Staten Island, but we welcome
anyone seeking to connect with our community, learn
about West African culture, or support our mission.
Do you provide immigration assistance?
Our programs are designed primarily for West African
immigrant families on Staten Island, but we welcome
anyone seeking to connect with our community, learn
about West African culture, or support our mission.
What languages do your staff speak?
Our programs are designed primarily for West African
immigrant families on Staten Island, but we welcome
anyone seeking to connect with our community, learn
about West African culture, or support our mission.
How are donations used?
Our programs are designed primarily for West African
immigrant families on Staten Island, but we welcome
anyone seeking to connect with our community, learn
about West African culture, or support our mission.
Can businesses partner with ROZA?
Our programs are designed primarily for West African
immigrant families on Staten Island, but we welcome
anyone seeking to connect with our community, learn
about West African culture, or support our mission.
Where is your community center located?
Our programs are designed primarily for West African
immigrant families on Staten Island, but we welcome
anyone seeking to connect with our community, learn
about West African culture, or support our mission.
Stay Connected With ROZA
Subscribe to our newsletter for the latest updates on events, programs, success stories,
and opportunities to get involved with our community.
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Building Partnerships That Matter
We collaborate with leading organizations to deliver comprehensive support and create
lasting impact for our community.
New York State Assembly
NYC Community Services
Staten Island Art
Education First
Health Partners Network
Business Development Corp
Interested in partnering with us?
Building Bridges, Strengthening Families
Our mission is to empower and uplift the West African immigrant community on Staten Island by providing culturally responsive programs and essential services that promote social integration, economic advancement, education, health, and intergenerational connection. We strive to preserve our rich African heritage while fostering unity, inclusion, and active civic engagement within the broader Staten Island community.
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Years
Serving Community
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Years
Supported Annually
Cultural Pride
Celebrating and preserving West African heritage for future generations
Community Unity
Building strong networks of support and connection
Empowerment
Providing tools and resources for economic and personal growth
Excellence
Delivering high-quality programs with measurable impact
Let's Connect
Have questions or want to get involved? We’d love to hear from you and discuss how we
can work together to strengthen our community.