Fireburn Heritage, Inc.
Our Story Our Voice
To honor the U.S. Virgin Islands’ proud heritage, empower future generations, and erase racism by providing cultural materials inspired by the vibrant tapestry of the Virgin Islands, and by offering support to the community through our commitment to cultural preservation, education, and unity.
Our History
Fireburn Heritage, Inc. is an IRS approved 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization on a mission to foster transformative change through collaborations with other nonprofits and like-minded individuals. With a focus on cultural preservation, the humanities, gender equality, zero hunger, and environmental sustainability, our vision is to create a more equitable and inclusive world.
Our work revolves around producing and distributing high-quality educational resources and executing projects that result in critical financial donations and essential supplies for those in need. Through collective efforts, we have made a meaningful impact, such as supporting hurricane victims with food donations, contributing to literacy campaigns by providing books and documentary DVDs, extending financial assistance to orphans and the elderly, aiding the homeless with food and shelter, and organizing drives to collect clothing and canned goods for those facing hardship.
In recognition of our dedication to various United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, including no poverty, zero hunger, quality education, and gender equality, Fireburn Heritage, Inc. was honored by the United Nations Association, Broward County Chapter. Our overarching vision is to help create a world free from bias and racism, all while sharing the little known history, culture, resilience, and strength of Virgin Islanders. We are committed to making the world a better place, fostering understanding, unity, and prosperity, and advocating for a more inclusive and compassionate global society.
Press and Media
This website was funded by a grant from the Virgin Islands Council on the Arts
Angela Golden Bryan
Executive Director
Angela, the visionary founder of Fireburn Heritage, established this organization out of a profound desire to serve her community and beyond. Her initial mission, focused on addressing hunger, soon unveiled a broader need within people—the hunger for knowledge and personal growth. Angela’s vision encompasses not only providing sustenance for the body but also nourishing the mind through the creation of high-quality educational products designed to inspire, educate, and entertain. With a master’s degree in Counselling Psychology from Chaminade University of Honolulu, she brings a deep understanding of the human psyche to her mission. Her additional master’s degree in Practical Theology from Wesley Seminary reflects her commitment to spiritual and ethical insights. Angela’s dedication to positive transformation is further exemplified through her roles as an ordained chaplain, certified speaker, trainer, and coach. She is also an award-winning author and film producer. Angela’s multifaceted expertise and accomplishments form the core of Fireburn Heritage’s mission to make a profound and enduring impact on communities, nurturing both the hearts and minds of those she serves.
Louis “Cy” Golden
Vice President
Cy was raised on the beautiful island of St. Croix. He attended St. Patrick Elementary School and then continued on to St. Joseph High School. After graduating from high school, he joined the U.S. Air Force. Cy had several different jobs during his Air Force career. To name a few, he was an aircraft mechanic, an aircraft systems instructor, and ran the Maintenance Computer Support Center. While in the Air Force he also earned an Associate Degree for Aircraft Pneudraulic Systems Technology, and an Associate Degree for Instructor of Technology & Military Science. He also has a bachelor’s degree in Vocational Education from Southern Illinois University. After retiring from the Air Force, Cy started a second career and retired as a Computer Network Administrator with the Washington Education Association. He is married to Pam Golden with one son, Louis Golden. Cy still enjoys working on computers and other tech related gadgets.
Louis F. Golden
Treasurer
Mr. Louis Golden attended James Madison University in Harrisonburg, Virginia and majored in Accounting. He received his bachelor’s degree in accounting in 1997. Mr. Golden works for the Federal Government. He has been active at his church where he was the church treasurer for over five years. He is also a member of the Christian Men’s Fellowship (CMF) which is a group of men at the church whose major objective is to raise funds to assist qualified individuals in pursuing their educational/vocational goals in degree or certificate programs. Other objectives of the CMF include providing a strong positive male image within the church and community and serving as mentors for any youth needing such service. Mr. Golden was president of the CMF from 2006-2009. Mr. Golden was president of the CMF from 2006-2009 and has two sons, Lou and Gavin.
Erin Bryan
Secretary
Raised in sunny South Florida, Erin holds a bachelor’s degree in Integrated Public Relations & Advertising from the University of South Florida. Her fervor for communications and social media is evident in her year-long role as an Agency Coordinator at a PR firm, where she applied a hands-on approach to brand growth through digital strategies. Currently, she’s immersed in pursuing a master’s in Hospitality Management at Florida International University, showcasing her diverse interests and commitment to continuous learning.
Sonia Bailey
Board Member
Sonia Bailey is a life recovery specialist, executive coach, and an agent of social and spiritual change. She supports people to get free of the effects of bias and other unhealthy conditions, reclaim their lives and manifest their vision. She is the Executive Director of Fire Forged Recovery, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization and Grassroots Executive LLC. She brings decades of experience in rehabilitation, board service, operations management, staff development, and quality assurance to her work of supporting entrepreneurs and nonprofits. She is a mother of three, an ordained Chaplain, and the author The Path to Cultural Wellness, as well as Healing Ourselves: The African American Woman’s Guide to Richer Living, and One Soul.
Photo Credits
| Location | Photographer |
|---|---|
| About page header | Friends of Virgin Islands National Park |
| Outreach page header (children) | Friends of Virgin Islands National Park |
| Contact page header | Stephanie Chalana Brown |
| Donate page header | Stephanie Chalana Brown |
| Team page header | Stephanie Chalana Brown |
| Product page header | Raymond Galloway |
| Donate page header | Friends of Virgin Islands National Park |
| Images from the screening | Raymond Galloway |
| Virgin islands (home slide) | Friends of Virgin Islands National Park |
| Three dancers (home slide) | William Stelzer |
| Palm weaver (home slide) | William Stelzer |
They Say
“Short films are making progressive waves this past year, especially one project by artist and filmmaker Angela Golden Bryan.”
“The documentary explores the inhumane work and living conditions that existed prior to the revolt and takes an in depth look at the women who were called “Queens” due to their leadership.”
“[…] a short documentary that pays homage to an event significant to Virgin Islands history.”
“The documentary helps bring the story to a global stage and new audiences.”
“This documentary is an insightful look into Virgin Islands history and culture. Not only is it visually stunning, it puts a whole new meaning and depth behind the Fireburn.”
“This screenplay had me riveted and feeling spellbound, shocked, saddened, uplifted and joyous…all at the same time.”
“Once I started reading this book, I couldn’t put it down. Although it’s written in a movie script format, it only took me a couple of pages to get used to it and get into a rhythm. Super interesting and educational. Would love to see this on the big screen one day!”
“Anyone who enjoys historical fiction, especially the history of the islands, will love this. The angst and frustration of our ancestors during and after slavery supposedly ended was deeply felt as I read the lines of this screenplay.”
“This book is amazing! As a teacher from the Virgin Islands, I appreciate that I can teach about bullying and incorporate aspects of our history!”
“This is a wonderfully written and illustrated book! Children and adults will benefit from the author’s message. Every child should be able to read this inspirational book and hopefully schools will make this a part of their curriculum.”
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Fireburn Heritage has earned the prestigious Platinum Seal of Transparency, the highest level of recognition offered by GuideStar at Candid. This recognition underscores our dedication to openness, accountability, and providing valuable information to our supporters.