Frank Minaya y Willmore after receiving
Bahamian Consul General (NY) awards.

Mr. Minaya has the distinction of being the first Seton Hall Varsity Basketball player of Dominican descent in the 1950's, where he earned his Bachelor of Science (BS) degree in Health and Philosophy.

Earned two Masters Degrees: A Master of Science (MS) in School Administration from the City University of New York and a Masters of Arts (MA) in Technology from Columbia University.

In 1960s, produced the first full-length feature Bahamian film called Banana Boat Beat.  

Created one of the most famous nightclubs in The Bahamas, Frank's Banana Boat.

Mr. Minaya found his mission in life while living in The Bahamas, a humanitarian vision which has not changed in over 40 years.

In the 1970s Frank Minaya, a direct descendent of the former freed North American slaves brought to the Dominican Republic in the early 1800's, established Inmobiliaria Minaya y Willmore, S.A. landholding company which, for the last three decades, has focused on accumulating property on the Samana peninsula.

Created a Cultural Art Therapy Programme within Her Majesty's Prison focusing on the creation of Bahamian National Crest sand sculptures.

Created first Bahamian Fire Prevention and Safety Programme.

Donated the first fire truck to the island of Bimini.

Produced Fire Safety, Public Service Film 'From New York City to Bimini' which was shown during Prime Time on ZNS.

Facilitated introduction the Irving Burgie musical programme into all Bahamian primary schools.

Brought the Schomburg Center for Research in Black Culture together with the Bahamas National Archives to document Bahamian Heroes.

Established the Bahamian/Dominican/American Partnership which facilitates humanitarian projects in The Bahamas, the Dominican Republic and the United States.

Accepted invitation to join Bahamas Education Culture and Science Foundation, Inc. (BECS) as Treasurer.

Mr. Minaya will be working very closely with fellow BECS Board Members and BECS supporters, The College of The Bahamas Board Members, and United States colleges, universities, corporations and foundations to assist in propelling The College of The Bahamas to the internationally recognized status of 'University'.

Member of the Bahamian American Association, formerly the Nassau Bahamas Association (NY), for over 20 years.

Last Edited: 03/05/2009