Leadership

Driven by our compassion to help the oppressed Nagas' by using our entrepreneurial spirit bound by innovation and technical knowledge, we constantly redefine how we will influence fair legislation to uplift the people of Nagalim.

Executive Leadership

The Hon. President and Founder Grace Collins
Honorary Ambassador of Nagalim to the United States and the United Nations

Grace Collins is the Founding President and Honorary Ambassador of Nagalim to the United States and the United Nations. For more than 25 years, she has worked to strengthen the voice of the Naga people internationally, advancing their interests in human rights, self-determination, and sustainable development. As an American cultural diplomat, she has emphasized that supporting Nagalim aligns with U.S. and global interests in promoting peace, democracy, and regional stability in South and Southeast Asia.

From 2003 to 2011, the Government of Nagalim formally requested Collins to represent their interests in the United States. To ensure full transparency under U.S. law, she registered with the U.S. Department of Justice Counterespionage Division (FA#5566) and was officially recognized as the Honorary Ambassador of Nagalim. Under her leadership, the mission hosted high-level awareness events in Hollywood, Silicon Valley and Washington, D.C., including several hearings before members of the U.S. Congress. She has authored goodwill white papers, facilitated visas for Naga delegates, and written and published numerous articles in both the U.S. press and in Nagalim, further amplifying the voice of the Naga people internationally.

Collins’s involvement with the Nagas began in 1998, when she met a senior Naga diplomat while exhibiting her “Museum of Compassion” at the 50th Anniversary of the Declaration of Human Rights in Geneva, Switzerland. Deeply moved by the Naga people’s struggle for dignity and recognition, she began voluntarily promoting their cause across churches, universities, and museums throughout the United States. Her consistent advocacy evolved into a lifelong commitment to advancing the Naga-American relationship and the inclusion of indigenous perspectives within global dialogue.

Before her diplomatic service, Collins built a distinguished career in cultural entrepreneurship and development. She graduated from Boston College in 1985 with a degree in Fine Arts, earned her MBA from Durham University, United Kingdom, in 1989, and completed coursework toward a second Master’s in Education (Museum Studies) at Columbia University Teachers College in New York City.

In 1990, she founded a recycled mail-order company employing homeless individuals to create art from recycled materials, which grew into the Museum of Homeless Art—later renamed the Museum of Compassion and dedicated to Mother Teresa. In 1998, the Museum was officially recognized as one of the 52 United Nations Peace Museums, listed in the UN Peace Museum Directory.

From 1993 to 1995, Collins worked with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in the United Nations Education Training Programme for Southern Africa during the post-Apartheid transition and with the Department of Development Support and Management Services (DDSMS). She also taught business courses at the Learning Annex and the Seminar Center in New York City for four years.

Of Korean heritage, Collins draws inspiration from her great uncle, Rev. Kingsley K. Lyu,one of the seven South Korean representatives to the United Nations and a delegate to the 1945 San Francisco Conference, when South Korea was still unrecognized as an underground government. Her maternal grandmother was a freedom fighter in the Korean Independence Movement during the Japanese occupation, and her family maintains a scholarship fund for human rights studies and a statue in her grandmother’s honor for Korea’s liberation from Japan.

Collins views her ongoing work for the Naga people as a continuation of that family legacy—a dedication to human dignity, cultural survival, and international justice guided by Archbishop Desmond Tutu's phrase that neutrality in the face of injustice serves only the oppressor.

“If you are neutral in situations of injustice, you have chosen the side of the oppressor.” – Archbishop Desmond Tutu

Pete M. Rivera

Deputy Chief of Mission (DCM) / Deputy Head of Mission (DHM)

Pete M. Rivera serves as the Deputy Chief of Mission (DCM) and Deputy Head of Mission (DHM) for the Council, supporting the Ambassador, and the Hon. Ambassador in overseeing Council operations, supervising section heads, and representing the Mission in the Ambassador’s absence. He works directly on strategic initiatives to strengthen ties between Nagalim and the United States, including medium to large self sustaining economic humanitarian focused projects.

A distinguished entrepreneur and humanitarian, Rivera is the Founder of Revelnation Enterprises Inc. – Americas, Revelnation Enterprises LLC – Africa, and Revelnation: Revel With A Cause Inc., a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization.www.revelnationent.com.His entrepreneurial career spans marketing, telecommunications, hospitality, and event management. Rivera’s leadership includes franchise ownership of AllOver Media, district management for the precursor of VICTRA, enterprise consulting for Empire Distributors Inc., and management of six restaurant sites under Brinker International Inc., a Berkshire Hathaway company.

Rivera has organized numerous large-scale events and celebrity fundraisers benefiting The Ronald McDonald House, The Maynard Children’s Hospital at ECU Health Medical Center, and St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. His civic involvement includes drafting and zoning for public parks, buildings, and roadways, as well as over two decades of faith-based service in the Knights of Columbus.

His lifelong dedication to service and philanthropy was recognized with the Presidential Lifetime Achievement Award, presented by the White House in honor of his humanitarian excellence.

Honorable Teresa Cox

Minister of Trade

Honorable Teresa Cox serves as the Minister of Trade and currently under President Trump as a part of the distinguished U.S. Department of Commerce’s District Export Council, a position she has held under six consecutive Presidential Administrations since 2010. In this capacity, she promotes international trade relations in collaboration with Consulates General, Embassies, and multiple levels of government, advancing opportunities in emerging markets and strengthening local and global economies. She has represented the United States at the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Forum, promoting free trade and sustainable growth among 21 member economies. Renowned for her leadership and diplomacy, Honorable Cox has built lasting partnerships with South and Central Asian communities, enhancing cross-cultural collaboration and economic development.

A trailblazer in education and public service, Honorable Cox earned her Bachelor of Science in Nuclear Engineering from Northwestern University—becoming the first African American woman in the nation to do so—and later received her MBA from the University of Rochester. Her career in public service began in Washington, D.C., where she worked with the Federal Government and the White House before joining the City of Fremont’s Economic Development Advisory Commission in Silicon Valley. As Chair, she led a mission to China to strengthen international economic ties. She later became the first African American elected to the Ohlone Community College Board of Trustees, where she served for twelve years, including as Vice Chair, securing a multimillion-dollar bond to enhance technology and STEM programs.

Honorable Cox made history again as the first African American to serve on Fremont’s City Council, representing the sixth district-the heart of Silicon Valley, where she championed business and retail development projects such as Pacific Commons and the Fremont Innovation Districts. Professionally, she has held leadership and advisory roles across Fortune 500 companies, government, and nonprofit sectors, with expertise spanning engineering, supply chain management, international trade, energy, cybersecurity, and consulting. For her distinguished service, she has received numerous awards including 100 Most Influential Women in Silicon Valley, California Assembly Woman of the Year, City of Fremont Leadership Award, and commendations from the California State Senate and U.S. Congress. She was also knighted as Lady Teresa Cox by Prince Rafael Andújar y Vilches of the Sovereign House of Cappadocia for her outstanding contributions to humanity and global goodwill.

David Dennis

Minister of Science, Technology and Infrastructure Development

David has achieved over fifty years as an inventor and entrepreneur. During college he studied Theoretical Physics, Chemistry, Astronautical Engineering, Hotel and Restaurant Management, Nutrition, Entrepreneurship and Finance. This diversity of disciplines led him into businesses that ranged from General Contracting, Real Estate, Restaurants and animal feed manufacturing, EPA consulting, custom chemical manufacturing, and dozens of other disciplines.

David invented a proprietary process to extrude plant-based protein. This in part led to more efficient and productive animal feeds and eventually to the Quantum Biological Premium Organic Plant Food and Soil Nourishment known as XtraGrow® Premium Organic Plant Based Fertilizer 6-1-3 which began a revolution in modern agricultural nutrition, yield, and resilience known as Premium Organic. Currently he serves as Director of XtraGrow Foundation, Inc. A recognized 501(c) public charity to teach children and young adults Premium Organic Agriculture.

His investigation into the biological principles behind his advanced animal and plant foods led him into laboratories and kitchens to develop human food and water options, which led him to the founding of Void Space Laboratories, LLC which is exploring the health and wellness of plants, animals and humans to support communities that are stewards of the earth and abundant in all resources, and can thrive independently.

His efforts to collaborate are obvious in his organization of: The Forgotten Medicine book series whose first book “From Dirt to Medicine” is being published by Carus Books with worldwide distribution via Ingram. David’s desire to collaborate stems from his achievement of Eagle Scout and his lifelong commitment to the principals of Scouting and Youth Leadership Development. His broad understanding of many solutions, technologies and his vast network of researchers, scientists, engineers, manufacturers and implementors of solutions worldwide create positive impacts for Stewardship of the Earth and Abundance for all of Humanity.

Lorraine Ambrose Boothby
Public Affairs Counselor

Lorraine Ambrose Boothby serves as the Public Affairs Counselor for the Naga-American Council, leading strategic communications, media relations, and public diplomacy initiatives that promote dialogue, transparency, and mutual understanding between Nagalim and the international community. She develops programs to amplify the voice of Naga culture, heritage, and civic engagement in the United States and abroad.

A veteran journalist and editor, Boothby has extensive experience in global media and public affairs. She previously served as the Lifestyle Editor for The World & I magazine, covering sports, music, fashion, and cuisine, and as a Society Reporter for The Washington Times. Boothby was also Director of Public Liaison with the Victims of Communism Memorial Foundation, where she coordinated with embassies, the White House, and the U.S. Congress to advance international awareness and policy initiatives.

At the time of the fall of the Berlin Wall, Boothby was knighted into The Order of St. Stanislas for her contributions to democratic advocacy and later elevated to Dame Commander after receiving the Silver Star Award in recognition of her commitment to promoting democratic principles, cross-cultural understanding, and press freedom. She has written and published numerous articles in U.S. media outlets, furthering public awareness of human rights, democracy, and international cultural exchange.

In her role as Public Affairs Counselor, Boothby applies decades of journalistic insight and international communication expertise to strengthen the Council’s global outreach. She leads programs that highlight Naga traditions, foster cultural diplomacy, and support the Naga-American community’s interests worldwide.

Boothby’s work reflects a lifelong dedication to transparency, civic engagement, and the power of media to connect communities across borders. Her leadership ensures that the Naga-American Council maintains a strong, consistent voice in promoting peace, cultural exchange, and mutual understanding between Nagalim and the broader international community.

Brandon Alexson

Chief Sports Diplomat

Brandon Alexson serves as the Sports Diplomat for the Council, advancing international dialogue and cultural cooperation through the universal language of sports. He leads initiatives that bridge communities across faiths and nations, promoting mentorship, integrity, and mutual respect through athletic exchange and humanitarian engagement on behalf of the Naga-American Council.

Alexson is an International Diplomatic Liaison and senior leader with SportsPower International, working alongside his father, Bill Alexson, the organization’s president and founder. Together, they have implemented global programs that use basketball as a platform for leadership development and peacebuilding. Over the past decade, Alexson has coordinated outreach efforts in more than sixteen nations, partnering with current and former NBA players to conduct clinics, school assemblies, and exhibition games against national teams. These events—many of which have been nationally televised—have inspired millions and demonstrated the power of sport as a unifying force.

In addition to his diplomatic work, Alexson is the founder of New Vision Network, a U.S.-based nonprofit dedicated to mentorship, education, and sustainable community development. He has served as an instructor and counselor in rehabilitation programs, prison ministry, and youth outreach, and alongside his wife, as a safehouse parent for minors rescued from human trafficking.

Alexson also serves as Assistant Chaplain for the BIG3 Basketball League, providing spiritual guidance and mentorship to professional athletes. Recently, he expanded his international engagement to include collaboration with the Naga community of northeastern India (Nagalim), where his focus on humanitarian outreach, leadership development, and sports diplomacy strengthens cross-cultural ties and community advancement.

Ron Whitaker

Chief Musical Diplomat

Ron Whitaker serves as the Chief Musical Diplomat for the Council, leading international initiatives that unite nations through music, humanitarian outreach, and cultural collaboration. In this role, he develops programs that share the rich traditions of Naga music and culture with global audiences while fostering dialogue, empathy, and community engagement across borders.

A celebrated rock drummer and humanitarian, Whitaker has produced and performed in over sixty humanitarian concerts across five continents, promoting unity and compassion through the universal language of music. He has twice headlined concerts for the United Nations’ International Day of the World’s Indigenous Peoples, spotlighting the Naga people and their cultural heritage.

Whitaker’s distinguished career has earned him more than twenty major music honors, including induction into both the American Entertainment Hall of Fame and the California Music Hall of Fame—twice—and recognition as Drummer of the Year in 2007. His collaborations span legendary artists such as Guns N’ Roses, Paul McCartney and Wings, The Runaways with Cherie Currie, Rod Stewart, and The Knack.

As President and CEO of the Hope for the Homeless Los Angeles Humanitarian Project, Whitaker has received over fifty humanitarian awards for his steadfast service to homeless and veteran communities. His role as Chief Musical Diplomat reflects a lifelong commitment to using music as a force for hope, cultural fusion, and human dignity—advancing the Council’s mission to celebrate and strengthen Naga-American heritage worldwide.

Chef Pamshang Mashangva

Chief Culinary Diplomat

Chef Pamshang Mashangva serves as Culinary Attaché for the Naga-American Council, representing Nagalim’s vibrant culinary heritage at the highest level of cultural diplomacy. Inspired by his father’s mastery in cooking, fishing, hunting, and farming, Chef Mashangva developed a deep passion for the culinary arts from a young age. His professional journey began as a helper in the kitchen at Wanton House, one of Mumbai’s oldest Chinese restaurants, where he gained foundational experience and set his sights on a global culinary path.

Over the years, Chef Mashangva’s career has taken him from the bustling kitchens of Mumbai to renowned establishments in Dubai and the United States. Now based in San Francisco, he is recognized as one of the pioneering Naga chefs on the international stage. His approach to cooking goes beyond gastronomy and service—it is a way of life and a medium for expressing identity, tradition, and the warmth of Naga hospitality.

Chef Mashangva’s culinary artistry is rooted in the heart of Naga cuisine, known for its simplicity, complexity, and deep connection to nature. He specializes in smoked meats and fish, pork sausage (a Naga favorite), King chili chutney, steamed and boiled vegetables, bamboo shoots, and rice cooked in bamboo. His dishes highlight organic and locally sourced ingredients, reflecting a tradition of sustainable farming, hunting, and gathering, and exemplify the Naga palate’s rich and authentic flavors.

As Culinary Attaché, Chef Mashangva will be curating and preparing traditional dishes for official functions, state dinners, and cultural exchange programs. For major Naga events and international outreach, he will be promoting the unique food culture of Nagalim to distinguished guests and global audiences. Through his leadership, the Council’s mission of cultural exchange, mutual respect, and community advancement is brought to life on tables around the world.

Martin B. Schwartz

Immigration Counselor

Martin B. Schwartz serves as the Immigration Counselor for the Council, providing expert advice on immigration, naturalization, and civil law matters to Naga-Americans and allied communities. He leads programs to ensure legal access, advocacy, and support for families navigating complex immigration processes in the United States.

Attorney Schwartz founded The Law Offices of Martin B. Schwartz, Immigration and Civil Law, P.A., in 1994.www.Martinschwartzlaw.com. He has successfully represented clients throughout Florida and across the United States and is fluent in Spanish, providing culturally responsive services to diverse populations.

Notably, Schwartz was part of the litigation team in Al Najjar v. Reno, 97 F. Supp. 2d 1329 (S.D. Fla. 2000), a landmark immigration case. He served as an adjunct professor of immigration law at St. Petersburg College and has lectured extensively at national conferences, including the American Immigration Lawyers Association (AILA). He has published influential works on post-criminal conviction relief, habeas corpus, and immigration detention issues, contributing to the development of immigration law and policy.

As Immigration Counselor, Schwartz combines almost four decades of legal expertise, landmark litigation experience, and teaching to advocate for Naga-American immigrants, strengthening the Council’s mission of justice, rights protection, and cross-cultural support.