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Ashook Ramsaran unveils autobiography in NY community event
The book documents Ramsaran’s multigenerational story beginning with his great-grandparents, Poorye and Radhah, who arrived in British Guiana as indentured laborers in the mid-19th century.
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Staff Reporter - Thu, 27, Nov 2025
- 13:05 EST
- 12
(L-R): Ramsaran Family before sharing the cake, with the book and photo of later Gerald: Arnold, Nadira, Gavin, Camille, Ashook, Jaden and Rachel / Courtesy: Ashook Ramsaran
A community-centered event in Queens, New York, unveiled 'Beyond Expectations: The Odyssey of a Village Boy from Guyana,' the autobiography of Ashook Ramsaran, president of New York-based Ramex Inc.
The event took place on Nov. 23 at Douglaston Manor, in the presence of family, colleagues, community leaders, and elected officials. It was moderated by Rhonda Binda of Guyanese origin.
The book documents Ramsaran’s multigenerational story beginning with his great-grandparents, Poorye and Radhah, who arrived in British Guiana as indentured laborers in the mid-19th century.
Also Read: Refugee-turned-author Raveen Arora releases memoir on survival
Structured in three sections, it covers his childhood in Guyana, his transition to the United States, and his work in civic and diaspora affairs. A detailed journey map, historical documents, photos, and tributes—including one to his late son Gerald—provide additional context.
Book cover of ‘Beyond Expectations’ / Courtesy: Ashook RamsaranUS Congress Member Grace Meng, the chief guest, highlighted Ramsaran’s professional track record and community engagement, referencing his biography being recorded in the US Congressional Record in June 2025.
New York State Senator Roxanne Persaud discussed his ongoing civic involvement and issued a citation. Remarks were also shared by Sudhir Parikh of Parikh Worldwide Media, Guyana’s Consulate (via a message from Ambassador Michael Brotherson), Queens District Leader Richard David, and diaspora advisor Fazal Yussuff.
In closing, Ramsaran told attendees, "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."
"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," he added.
(L-R): Camille Ramsaran, Ashook Ramsaran, Warren Schreiber (Queens Civic Congress), NYS Sen. Roxanne Persaud, US Cong. Grace Meng, Michael Scotland (Queens Civic Congress) / Courtesy: Ashook Ramsaran
Ramsaran, who has held leadership roles in diaspora organizations, is recognized for initiatives such as the Kolkata Memorial and street-naming efforts in New York.
The foreword, written by author and academic David Dabydeen, is complemented by advance remarks on the back cover from Donald Ramotar, Letitia James, Ela Gandhi, Alina Camacho-Gingerich, and Albert R. Ramdin.
Attendees received complimentary signed copies, and several individuals read selected excerpts, including Dabydeen (read by Sylvia Ramgadoo-Marimuthu), Ben Jacob (read by Arnold Ramsaran), writer Marina Budhos, and Ramsaran’s grandsons Jaden and Gavin.
The event concluded with remarks from attendees on the book’s historical relevance, followed by a vote of thanks from Rachel Ramsaran.
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