Exclusive Interview: Dimple Willabus Speaks to The Haitian Tribune on Her Vision for NYC’s 46th District

In a pivotal moment for local politics in Brooklyn, The Haitian Tribune conducted an exclusive and in-depth interview with City Council candidate Dimple Willabus, who is running to represent New York City’s 46th District—home to the vibrant and diverse neighborhood of Canarsie, which includes a significant Haitian-American population.

Seeking to directly engage with the Haitian community and address lingering concerns, the Willabus campaign reached out to The Haitian Tribune to share her platform and vision. With early voting already underway and the stakes at an all-time high, the candidate emphasizes trust, transparency, and a deep commitment to uplifting the voices of Haitian residents. She aims to inspire change through her leadership philosophy and her unwavering dedication to the district.

As issues such as public safety, affordable housing, youth empowerment, and cultural representation dominate the conversation in this election cycle, this interview offers a timely and revealing look into the core priorities of Dimple Willabus. The Haitian Tribune is proud to share this meaningful dialogue—an opportunity for readers to better understand her background, values, and plans for shaping the future of District 46.

Background and Motivation

Q: Tell us about your background. What inspired you to run for New York City Council—and why now?

A: My name is Dimple Willabus, and I am a first-generation Guyanese American. Brooklyn is home to my family and me. I am a wife, mother of three, and grandmother of one, as well as a small business owner.

I was raised to believe that every person must be an advocate for causes that benefit the community. My parents taught me that “a strong family and a strong community are intertwined and essential for progress.” I’m running because our current councilmember has consistently failed this community, lacking integrity, transparency, and compassion.

The current leadership has aligned with political elites and special interests like Uber, Airbnb, and shelter developers, sacrificing affordable housing and our neighborhood character. Entire blocks of small businesses have been replaced by lithium battery storage facilities while over 800 families face tax lien sales. I can no longer stand by. Our community deserves honest representation rooted in our shared values.

Q: How has your personal and professional journey prepared you to serve a diverse district like Canarsie?

A: Like many here, I’m an immigrant who came to this country seeking opportunity. I’ve faced systemic barriers, but I’ve also learned how to overcome them.

My background in banking, leadership in education, and small business ownership have all taught me how to deliver results. I’ve helped families navigate the school system, guided entrepreneurs in launching businesses, and organized food and PPE drives during the height of COVID. People know I get things done—I’m not just about the talk, I’m about action.

Q: As a woman of Caribbean descent, how has your cultural identity shaped your leadership and political approach?

A: Caribbean people possess incredible resolve and work ethic. I was raised to know “who you are and where you’re from.” Our culture celebrates unity and resilience.

In the Caribbean, it’s not about race or wealth—it’s about shared struggle and collective strength. I carry those values into everything I do. I want to see our people thrive.

Community Focus: Haitian-American Engagement

Q: District 46 has one of NYC’s largest Haitian populations. How do you plan to effectively engage Haitian constituents?

A: Haitians, like other immigrant groups, face disparities in housing, healthcare, education, and more. I want to address these issues head-on by forming a Haitian advisory group of organizers, clergy, and educators to help triage community needs.

I’ve already connected with organizations doing meaningful work—true “Hubs of Hope”—and we need more of them right here in Canarsie.

Q: Many Haitian-Americans in Canarsie are small business owners, healthcare workers, and essential employees. What specific policies will you advocate for to promote their economic mobility?

A:

• Small Business Owners: I will fight to offer free legal and setup services, provide access to city contracts and funding, and remove bureaucratic hurdles.
• Healthcare Workers: Despite being top five in healthcare disparities, we’ve seen no real progress. I’ll push for local education pipelines—from home health aide to RN to MD—with financial support and a community service commitment.
• Essential Workers: We need to expand pre- and afterschool services, provide affordable transportation (like ferry access), and increase workforce training. If we invest in workers, the entire community benefits.

Q: Language access remains a barrier. How will you ensure Haitian Kreyòl speakers can access services?

A: Partnering with credible Haitian organizations is essential. Currently, hundreds of thousands in council funding go to politically connected groups with little to show. I will break that cycle and fund proven organizations that support our Haitian community, with metrics to track impact and accountability.

Policy and Vision

Q: What are your top three priorities if elected?

A:

1. Education Accessibility
2. Affordability (Housing & Healthcare)
3. Public Safety

Q: Affordable housing is a major concern. What is your plan to combat housing insecurity and protect tenants?

A: Canarsie ranks top five in tax lien sales. Instead of permanent housing, we were given a temporary shelter. I would mandate higher affordable housing requirements for developers and ensure new developments include green space and local job opportunities.

“City of Yes” must not become “City of Displacement.” Developers should benefit only if the community does too.

Q: How will you tackle gun violence and support youth outreach?

A: Gun and gang violence stems from a lack of opportunity. I will invest in engaging afterschool programs—arts, trades, tech, coding—not just babysitting. We need meaningful paths to careers that keep our youth inspired and safe.

Q: What changes will you fight for in education to support immigrant families?

A: We need after-school programs that guide students toward long-term goals. I’ll advocate for tutoring, mentorship, and college prep support, and bring professionals into schools to mentor students on careers in medicine, law, engineering, and more.

Civic Engagement and Leadership

Q: What role do Haitian-American voters play in this election, and how do you encourage participation?

A: Haitian-Americans are vital to NYC politics. My message: You must be part of the change you want to see. If you don’t participate, decisions will still be made, just without your voice. We must stop accepting representatives who look and sound like us but serve corporate and political elites.

Q: How will you ensure transparency and accountability as a councilmember?

A: I will be on the ground, meeting residents face to face. My office will be open and accessible, not closed and silent like our current one. Technology helps, but direct interaction is key. I will always be answerable to the people.

Q: How will you strengthen partnerships with Haitian organizations, churches, and leaders?

A: I will personally invite Haitian leaders to City Hall and bring City Hall to Canarsie. The Haitian community should not only be spoken about—they must be engaged and respected in policymaking.

Personal Message

Q: What’s one misconception about Canarsie you want to correct?

A: People wrongly paint Canarsie as dirty or dangerous. In truth, we have lush parks, competitive schools, dynamic entrepreneurs, and a thriving culture of food, music, and unity. Our community deserves to be celebrated, not stigmatized.

Q: How will you ensure accessibility for immigrant families?

A: I’ll meet families, businesses, and clergy in person and keep the office open and inclusive. We’ll use tech tools and community partnerships to keep communication clear and consistent.

Q: Final message to the Haitian community heading to the polls?

A: Our community deserves so much more. For too long, we’ve been divided and manipulated by those in power. My opponent has raised nearly half a million dollars from corporate PACs to maintain the status quo.

But we have the numbers, the power, and the heart to change that. Let’s come together and vote for real leadership—leadership that fights for you. I’m ready to serve with integrity and commitment to our shared values

As Election Day approaches, The Haitian Tribune extends its sincere gratitude to Candidate Dimple Willabus for taking the time to speak with us. We wish her the very best in the days ahead. We also encourage our readers to stay informed, stay engaged, and participate in the democratic process. Early voting is now underway—make your voice count.

The Haitian Tribune contacted the Mercedes campaign to request a response or official statement.