Meet our Board of Directors

Co-Chair

Daniel Codrington is a multifaceted professional and co-founder of the Lighthouse Equality Advocacy Project, bringing a diverse set of skills and passions to his work. Born in Jamaica as the eldest of five siblings, Daniel embodies the passionate and intense traits of his Scorpio star sign.

Professionally, Daniel is a chef, blending creativity and precision into his culinary creations. His artistic vision extends to graphic design, where he excels in producing compelling visuals. Additionally, his background as a computer engineer highlights his ability to merge creativity with technical expertise, making him a well-rounded professional across digital and culinary arts.

In his free time, Daniel enjoys his love for anime and movies, reflecting his appreciation for storytelling and visual aesthetics. He also has a passion for creating things from scratch, whether it be in the kitchen, through design, or in the realm of technology.

Daniel’s favorite shade is black, symbolizing sophistication and depth, while his favorite color, cyan, represents creativity and vibrancy. With his unique blend of talents and interests, Daniel Codrington exemplifies a dynamic, innovative spirit, both in his professional work and personal life.

Co-Chair 

Aldean Ackeil Williams is a Certified Alternative Dispute Resolution Mediator, Social Development Professional and Behavioural Specialist. He has a Master of Arts in Communication for Social and Behaviour Change at The University of the West Indies, Mona, a Bachelor of Science in Child and Adolescent Development and Supervisory Management from the University of Technology, Jamaica and certifications in Project Management in Global Health & Global Mental Health from the University of Washington. 

He is the Support Services Officer at the Jamaican Network of Seropositives where he works with individuals and groups specifically People Living with HIV and other key populations affected by HIV to promote optimum psychological health as a means of reducing their risk and vulnerabilities to contracting HIV or living positively as People Living with HIV. Additionally, Aldean is an Adjunct Lecturer at the University of Commonwealth Caribbean, Kingston in the School of Behavioural Studies, Humanities and Law. 

Aldean has, a passion for growth, learning and development in children and adolescents. This passion is driven by his personal and leadership experiences in which he found the niche to contribute to his community and, by extension, his country. It’s his vision to effect change wherever he goes and impact the lives around him. 

Deputy Chair

Reverend Jevaughn A. Williams-Satchwell is a distinguished leader with extensive expertise across various sectors, including social services, community development, management, financial services, healthcare. He holds an Associate's Degree in Business Management, several diplomas, and advanced training in Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion, equipping him with a diverse skill set to drive impactful change. 

Throughout his career, Reverend Williams-Satchwell has demonstrated a deep commitment to social justice and community development. As a Social Services & Healthcare Professional, he works to enhance the well-being of marginalized communities, providing critical support and advocacy in various capacities, including as a Minister of Religion, Marriage Officer, Human Rights Advocate, and Motivational Speaker.

A dedicated HIV/AIDS activist from Jamaica, Reverend Williams-Satchwell has been instrumental in raising awareness, advancing prevention, and supporting those affected by the epidemic. His ongoing work in Canada continues to address health disparities and promote inclusive care. 

Reverend Williams-Satchwell's leadership extends to his role as the interim Chairman of the Caribbean Chapter of the Global Interfaith Network (GIN) and his involvement on several boards. His significant contributions to the national police youth club movement in Jamaica, where he held multiple key positions, underscore his longstanding commitment to youth development.  

Guided by the principles of Service, Respect, and Accountability, Reverend Williams-Satchwell believes in the power of advocacy and leadership to effect meaningful change. His career is a testament to his unwavering dedication to building a lasting legacy of positive impact and community empowerment.

 Board Secretary

Aaron Frankel represents clients in complex patent, trademark and trade secret litigation. An experienced trial lawyer, Aaron's emphasis on storytelling and his ability to clearly explain complicated technology contribute to his successes on behalf of clients in courts and tribunals across the country. Managing IP named Aaron to the 2023 shortlist for New York’s Litigator of the Year.

Aaron represents plaintiffs and defendants, from established Fortune 500 companies to innovative startups, in disputes involving a range of technologies, including semiconductor and light-emitting diode (LED) devices, computer security and networking, video games, cellular networks, consumer electronic devices, automobile systems, virtual and augmented reality, fishing lures, and many others. Aaron served on Law360's 2023 IP Editorial Advisory Board.

Aaron brings his technological and legal acumen and litigation experience to patent prosecution and inter partes review proceedings before the Patent Trial and Appeal Board. He advises clients on intellectual property licensing and diligence and transactions involving intellectual property, and provides business and tech-savvy guidance on patent portfolio evaluation, acquisition and management projects.

The co-chair of Kramer Levin’s Pro Bono Committee, Aaron coordinated Kramer Levin’s award-winning pro bono asylum program, and served as lead attorney or supervisor for more than fifty teams that successfully obtained asylum for refugees fleeing persecution based on their ethnicity, gender, religion or sexual orientation. The New York State Bar Association (NYSBA) awarded Aaron the President’s Pro Bono Service Award, and Immigration Equality awarded him a Safe Haven Award for his work on behalf of LGBT and HIV-positive asylum seekers. Aaron served on the Advisory Board of the Court Square Law Project. He frequently speaks on best practices and integrating pro bono into a successful commercial practice.

Treasurer

Geovanni Jones was born and raised in Kingston, Jamaica, growing up in an extended family. His passion for business and ethics led him to pursue a Bachelor's Degree in Management Studies at

the University of the West Indies. His interest in ethics deepened during his time at St. George's College, a Roman Catholic Jesuit institution, which influenced his decision to pursue graduate

education. Geovanni is currently a final-year graduate student at Boston College, studying Leadership and Administration with a concentration in Project Management. He will continue his studies at Boston College in Applied Analytics. In addition to his academic pursuits, Geovanni is  dedicated to charitable work, having collaborated with Mustardseed Communities for many years, contributing his time, talent, and resources to support those in need.

A British-born Jamaican migrant and a proud Brooklyn resident. For the past 10 years, Melissa has served in leadership

roles from NYC Mayoral Campaigns to College Access Programs to Consular Officer for the Jamaican Consulate-NY. As

BAJI’s NY Organizer, she continues to focus on policies/practices, resources and community organizing that advance

justice and expand opportunities Black migrant and African American communities. Melissa holds a M.A. in

International Affairs from The New School and B.A in Women's Studies and Sociology from Wheaton College, MA..

Arielle is a public interest attorney who has worked in civil legal services since 2017. Her work has focused on providing legal services that support struggles around immigrant rights, LGBTQ+ rights, access to public benefits, and healthcare. Through an Equal Justice Works legal fellowship, Arielle helped launch the UndocuCare TGNCI+ Project at New York Lawyers for the Public Interest, which focuses on ensuring that transgender, gender-nonconforming and intersex immigrant New Yorkers, as well as those living with HIV, have access to affirming healthcare, housing, and stability through immigration legal advocacy.

Arielle is currently a staff immigration attorney at Neighbors Link Community Law Practice, serving immigrant communities in the Hudson Valley region. She obtained her J.D. from Cornell Law School, where she spent four semesters serving immigrant farmworkers in the Farmworker Legal Assistance Clinic, and participated in the LGBT*
Communities Practicum in Syracuse, New York. She is honored to be a board member of Lighthouse Equality Advocacy Project.
 

Noah Habeeb is an accredited representative and the Director of the Ark at Congregation Beit Simchat Torah (CBST), which provides pro se legal support to LGBTQ and HIV+ asylum seekers and many others. Since 2019, the Ark at CBST has served more than 2,000 asylum seekers. 

Noah’s writing has appeared in the Nation, Tikkun, Truthout, and publications of the Institute for Policy Studies. He has an MA in Urban and Environmental Policy & Planning from UEP at Tufts University, and previously worked as an Urban Fellow in the New York City Mayor’s Office of Immigrant Affairs (MOIA). 

Executive Director

Richard Wilson, born in Jamaica, is a remarkable individual whose life is defined by their dedication to service, activism, and advocacy. Starting their professional journey as a chef, Richard mastered the culinary arts, but their passion for helping others soon led them to a more expansive path.

Currently, a third-year student, Richard is pursuing a BA in Social Work at the University of the Commonwealth Caribbean, a field that perfectly complements their mission to improve the lives of others. Their academic pursuits are deeply aligned with their commitment to social justice, which is evident through their extensive activism and community work.

Richard is a dedicated human rights activist, working tirelessly to advocate for the rights and dignity of marginalized communities. They are a Steering Committee member for the Black LGBTQI+ Movement Project (BLMP), where they play a vital role in shaping the direction and policies aimed at achieving equality for Black LGBTQI+ individuals. In addition to this role, Richard works as a Case Manager at a Transitional Housing Program, providing crucial support to individuals facing housing insecurity. Their work ensures that those in vulnerable situations can find stability and hope.

Richard's leadership extends further as the co-founder of the Lighthouse Equality Advocacy Project, an initiative that champions the rights of marginalized groups and promotes inclusivity. Through this project, they aim to create a safe space for dialogue, empowerment, and advocacy, focusing on achieving equality and justice for all.

Richard’s favorite quote, “Gratitude is a Must,” encapsulates their philosophy of life. It reflects their belief in the power of appreciation and the importance of remaining humble and grateful, no matter the circumstances. Through their various roles and contributions, Richard Wilson continues to inspire those around them, making a lasting impact in the fight for equality and justice.