This country’s newly appointed Consul General to the United States received commendations from colleagues at a welcoming ceremony at Friends of Crown Heights last weekend.

Rondy ‘Luta’ McIntosh assumed his duties as the Consul General on August 1. The cultural ambassador replaces Howie Prince, who served in the position since 2016.

Vaughn Toney, the CEO of Friends of Crown Heights is quoted in a press release from the New York (NY) Consulate office as describing McIntosh as “a humble man; someone who remembers his roots and takes pride in the hard work that has propelled him to public prominence”.

Lou-Anne Gilchrist, ambassador of St Vincent and the Grenadines (SVG) to the United States also made a statement at the welcome event, which took place on August 6.

SVG’s Embassy in Washington has general oversight of the NY Consulate.

According to the Consulate’s release, the ambassador said “McIntosh brings with him decades of experience in the cultural arena and the corresponding interpersonal and communication skills”.

He also brings years of experience in marketing to the post. Taken together, the experience and skills position him well to interact with and serve Vincentians in the Diaspora, while continuing to strengthen the bonds with those at home,” Gilchrist said.

Following announcements that he would take up the diplomatic position, McIntosh expressed that it was in his DNA to serve.

Apart from his professional career in marketing, as well as serving as a cultural ambassador, McIntosh is credited for working closely with many nationals both locally and n the Diaspora.

He also spearheaded relief efforts following La Soufriere’s volcanic eruptions in April 2021 under his charity, the Good Hearts Foundation, which allowed him to work along closely with the government, members of the private sector and other charitable organisations.

At last weekend’s function, the consul general spoke of his plans “to bring the Consulate to the people through more hands-on interaction and the establishment of satellite passport sessions”.

He thanked Vincentians who have assisted him and his family with their transition from SVG to the USA.

Prime Minister Dr Ralph Gonsalves visited the SVG Consulate in NY on August 5, en route to a state visit to the Republic of China on Taiwan.

Gonsalves has also expressed his confidence in McIntosh’s ability to perform well in his new role.