About Us

Asha Rampersad.
I’m the founder of Act of Random Kindness, a nonprofit organization rooted in the belief that even the smallest act of generosity can create lasting change.

This journey began in 2012 with a simple, heartfelt mission: collecting discarded books from libraries and giving them new life in the hands of children and families in my community. What started as a local effort grew far beyond what I imagined — those same books made their way across the world to the Caribbean, Guyana, Pakistan, and Africa. Watching my immigrant community embrace these books affirmed how deeply needed—and appreciated—access to knowledge and stories truly is.

As the weeks went by, something unexpected began to weigh on me—the quiet, painful reality that many of the families I visited were struggling to put food on the table. Distributing books brought me into their lives, and with that came a deeper understanding of their hardships. I couldn’t look away. That moment changed everything. Ark’s mission grew, and we now work hand in hand with food distribution centers to support some of the most impoverished neighborhoods in NYC.

In 2019, I formally established Act of Random Kindness as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. Today, we’re dedicated to meeting the evolving needs of our city through access to food, resources, and educational materials. Our goal is simple: to show up with kindness, compassion, and tangible support for the people who need it most.

This work continues to be my passion and purpose, and I’m honored to be part of a community that believes in uplifting one another, “the simple act you do is considered an Act of Random Kindness”

Naim Ali
Dedicated financial professional with over 27 years of accounting and financial expertise, dedicated to safeguarding client financial health and promoting ethical business practices. I drive growth by implementing innovative financial solutions, streamlining processes, and enhancing reporting across diverse industries. My academic tenure as a Professor of Finance, Accounting, and Business Studies at both the Apex Institute of Tobago and the City Institute of Higher Learning further reinforces my commitment to excellence in education and practice. As a NetSuite Certified professional, I excel in new implementations, migrations, and optimizations that boost the effectiveness of client financial operations.

Beyond my corporate and academic achievements, I have always been deeply committed to community service. In 2007, I helped co-found the Al Aqaba Islamic Center, a nonprofit initiative aimed at addressing social challenges such as substance abuse, marital issues, and unemployment among the residents of Chaguanas, Trinidad. Later, in 2013, I joined forces with colleagues to establish the South Oncology Support group (SOS), which supports cancer patients and their families by offering essential information, moral support, practical assistance with transportation, and help with the costs of screening and tests, ensuring comprehensive care throughout the treatment journey.

Phedra Scarlett
Phedra Scarlett is a hardworking and passionate woman who has made it her mission to uplift and support her community through meaningful engagement and impactful service. Known for her hands-on approach, she has organized and personally funded numerous initiatives that address real needs—ranging from food pantry projects that provide nourishment to families in need, to back-to-school drives that ensure children are equipped with the tools to succeed.

Her commitment to community is rooted in her deep understanding that change begins with action. Over the years, she has spearheaded fundraisers, youth programs, and seasonal donation efforts that have touched hundreds of lives. Whether it’s through hosting events, launching support networks, or creating safe spaces for dialogue and support, she continues to show up for her neighbors and the causes that matter most.

Beyond her community work, she is a devoted mother whose strength and determination inspire everyone around her. She balances her responsibilities with grace, showing that with heart, hustle, and purpose, it’s possible to make a lasting difference. Her legacy is not only in the programs she builds—but in the lives she transforms along the way