QUEENS, N.Y. (Diya TV) — A new autobiography that traces a remarkable journey from a small Guyanese village to influential civic leadership in the United States debuted on Nov. 23 at a community-focused event at Douglaston Manor. Beyond Expectations: The Odyssey of a Village Boy from Guyana is written by Ashook Ramsaran, president of New York-based Ramex Inc. The gathering brought together family members, colleagues, community leaders, and elected officials from across New York. Rhonda Binda, a civic leader of Guyanese origin, moderated the program.
Ramsaran’s book presents a multigenerational narrative that begins in the mid-19th century, when his great-grandparents, Poorye and Radhah, arrived in British Guiana as indentured laborers. He uses this history to frame a personal story shaped by perseverance, education, and migration.
The book is divided into three sections. The first chronicles Ramsaran’s childhood in Guyana. The second follows his move to the United States and the challenges and opportunities that shaped his early years in New York. The final section highlights his role in civic and diaspora affairs, where he emerged as a leader on issues important to Guyanese and Caribbean communities.
Ramsaran includes a detailed journey map, historic documents, photos, and personal tributes. One tribute honors his late son, Gerald, whose memory he describes as a guiding force in his work. These elements add depth and context to a story that spans continents and generations.
U.S. Congress Member Grace Meng served as the chief guest. She praised Ramsaran’s long record of service and noted that his biography was entered into the U.S. Congressional Record in June 2025. She called the book an important contribution to the story of immigrant leadership in America.
New York State Senator Roxanne Persaud also spoke. She highlighted his continued civic engagement and presented him with a state citation.
Several other leaders offered remarks. They included Guyana’s Consulate, represented by a message from Ambassador Michael Brotherson; Queens District Leader Richard David; and diaspora advisor Fazal Yussuff. Each speaker pointed to Ramsaran’s dedication to community-building, cultural preservation, and public service.
In his address to attendees, Ramsaran reflected on the meaning of his work and the importance of the communities that shaped him. “As I reflect on this chapter, I am aware that the journey continues—perhaps not in me, but through those I have loved, taught, and beside whom I have walked,” he said.
He added that the book is more than a record of his travels. “This record speaks about my travels, but above that, it speaks about what I have tried to hold on to along the way: family, purpose, and memory. I am hopeful that it helps someone find a sense of purpose, whoever he/she is or from where he/she originated. Then it would certainly be worth it.”
Ramsaran is widely recognized for his leadership in diaspora organizations. His efforts include the Kolkata Memorial in India, which honors indentured laborers, and street-naming projects in New York that celebrate Guyanese heritage.
The foreword is written by author and academic David Dabydeen. The back cover features advance praise from several prominent figures, including former Guyana President Donald Ramotar, New York Attorney General Letitia James, human rights activist Ela Gandhi, educator Alina Camacho-Gingerich, and diplomat Albert R. Ramdin. Their comments frame the book as both personal and historically valuable.
During the event, guests received complimentary signed copies. Several individuals read selected passages, including Dabydeen’s words read by Sylvia Ramgadoo-Marimuthu; Ben Jacob’s excerpt read by Arnold Ramsaran; as well as readings by writer Marina Budhos and Ramsaran’s grandsons, Jaden and Gavin.
The evening closed with reflections from attendees, who highlighted the book’s historical relevance and its contribution to Caribbean American literature. Rachel Ramsaran delivered a vote of thanks, noting the community’s strong support for the project. The launch underscored the book’s broader message: that heritage, resilience, and purpose can bridge generations and inspire new ones.