GUYANA-BORN educator, Krystal Astwood, has been recognised at New York City’s inaugural Excellence in Human Service Delivery Awards (EHSDA), a landmark event that celebrated individuals and organisations making a difference in the lives of vulnerable New Yorkers.

The historic ceremony, hosted at Gracie Mansion by Mayor Eric Adams and the Mayor’s Office of Nonprofit Services, brought together leaders from across the nonprofit and public sectors. More than 100 nominations were reviewed, with honorees selected for their excellence in customer service, innovation, operational efficiency, and community impact.
Astwood, who resides in Brooklyn and is the Founder of the Reggio Emilia Montessori Center (REMC), was spotlighted among this year’s honorees for her commitment to community service and innovation in the human services sector.

Her recognition, according to Iman Cummings, Vice President of AMCHAM Guyana, reflects not only her individual dedication but also the wider contributions of Guyanese women in global spaces.

“This award is a testament to the resilience, compassion, and vision of women from Guyana who continue to shape communities far beyond our borders,” Cummings said. “Krystal Astwood embodies the very best of our diaspora: service, strength, and a deep sense of responsibility to others.”
Astwood holds a Bachelor of Arts in Philosophy from Boston College and a Master of Education from Teachers College, Columbia University. While her professional journey has been firmly rooted in the United States, she hopes to one day bring her expertise home by developing programmes in Guyana to advance child development, strengthen education, and build social-safety systems.

Her recognition places her among an esteemed group of changemakers driving equity and support for underserved populations in one of the world’s most dynamic cities. For Guyanese at home and abroad, her achievement stands as an inspiring reminder of the far-reaching influence of the nation’s women leaders.

The Excellence in Human Service Delivery Awards form part of NYC Nonprofit Week, which highlights the critical collaboration between nonprofits and city agencies to improve access to housing, healthcare, youth programmes, legal aid, and more.