Click here to view pictures of Reunion 2024 - Atlanta GA
Our Royes Family Reunion 2024, held at the Atlanta Evergreen Resort, in Atlanta Georgia was a memorable gathering of 146 family members, filled with laughter, love, and cherished memories. Family members from near and far came together to celebrate our shared heritage and strengthen the bonds that unite us.
The reunion kicked off with a vibrant and engaging Thursday evening Meet & Greet, hosted by our president, Carol Campbell. The evening was filled with excitement as family members, both familiar and new, gathered to kickstart the festivities. Upon arrival, registered attendees were welcomed with goodie bags packed with funky themed t-shirts and a detailed reunion magazine, setting the tone for the weekend. As everyone mingled and introduced themselves, the atmosphere was enhanced by the uplifting theme music, "We're United," created by Jasir Christmas. The evening was further animated by Korii Sewell, our talented DJ, who played a lively mix of tunes that kept the dance floor busy and the energy high. With laughter, dancing, and heartfelt connections, the Meet & Greet set a joyful and festive tone for the reunion ahead.
The Friday Family Picnic, set against the picturesque backdrop of Stone Mountain Park, was a vibrant celebration of fun, fitness, and family togetherness. The day kicked off at 7 am with a serene yoga class led by Arlena Washington, where attendees stretched and breathed deeply, embracing the tranquility of the morning. This was followed by a lively Zumba class that had everyone on their feet, dancing to upbeat rhythms and laughing together, as physical fitness became a joyful group activity. The health and wellness fair was a cornerstone of the day, offering valuable insights into hearing health, managing high blood pressure, diabetic care, dental hygiene, memory preservation, and mental wellness, ensuring that everyone left with a renewed focus on their health.
Attendees savored a spread of delicious food, indulged in icy, refreshing slushies to beat the heat, and listened to the lively tunes all provided by Donat & Donna Royes-Black and family. We appreciate their hard work of creating an atmosphere of joy and connection that resonated with all.
The Friday Family Game Night was an unforgettable evening brimming with laughter, camaraderie, and spirited competition, masterfully hosted by Suzette Maylor and Arlena Washington. Family members arrived dressed to impress in their finest blue denim and white outfits, adding a stylish flair to the festivities. The evening kicked off with a series of engaging group games, beginning with an icebreaker where participants eagerly sought out relatives who shared common interests, sparking lively conversations and discovering connections. The energy ramped up with a thrilling "name that tune" challenge, where music lovers passionately shouted out song titles and artists.
One of the evening's highlights was the uproarious and fiercely competitive modeling contest, where couples strutted their stuff, showcasing their best denim and white ensembles. The crowd roared with laughter and cheers as participants brought their unique style and humor to the runway, turning the event into a delightful spectacle.
Throughout the night, DJ Neville Royes kept the momentum going with a perfectly curated playlist that blended nostalgic hits with modern tracks, ensuring the dance floor stayed packed and the atmosphere remained electric. The combination of great music, entertaining games, and the joyful presence of family made the night a truly memorable celebration of togetherness and fun.
On Saturday, the family gathered for our annual business meeting, hosted by our president and executive board. The past executive board's yearly reports to family members were highlighted, ensuring transparency and communication. Different opinions were expressed during the meeting, but democracy prevailed through voting. Key topics included nominations for the Royes Family Executive Board , an amendment to the bylaws, and the exciting decision to host our next reunion in the Caribbean. Amendment 1, which proposed the creation of a Historian position, was passed, while Amendment 2, which proposed the elgibility of President of Royes Family International should be of direct bloodline/heritage, was not accepted.
President - Carol Royes Campbell, Vice President - Tarsha Luke, Treasurer - Sharon Weir, General Secretary - Nakiya Royes, Correspondence Secretary - Sonisha Royes Christmas, Historian - Stacey Bell
Region Leaders: NE US - Marcia Holmes, SE US - Suzette Maylor, Western US - Arlena Washington, Caribbean - Corrine Henry, Central America - Joy Royes, Europe - Tricia Royes de Jong, NextGen - Bryan Johnson
The crown jewel of the reunion weekend was the elegant and unforgettable Saturday Evening Banquet, a formal affair where attendees arrived adorned in their most exquisite attire. Hosted by the poised Carol Sewell and the ever-charming Neville Royes, the evening unfolded in the grand ballroom, radiating sophistication.
Bryan Johnson, our charismatic Nextgen MC, kept the crowd entertained and engaged, using his quick wit and humor to bring laughter and energy to the event.
As the night progressed, Carol and Neville took a moment to honor the cherished elders of the family—those 80 and older—who were present at the reunion, filling the room with a deep sense of respect and admiration for the family’s legacy.
The emotion heightened with an awe-inspiring Broadway performance by Sekou Luke, who delivered a stirring rendition of "Dream the Impossible," leaving many in the audience moved by the powerful message of perseverance.
Neville "Romaine" Graham then captivated everyone with a heartfelt motivational speech, reflecting on the significance of family, especially during times of grief and loss. His words resonated deeply as he spoke of how the reunions are far more than just fun gatherings—they are celebrations of shared heritage, opportunities to create new memories, and vital moments that strengthen the bonds that hold the family together.
One of the most exciting moments of the evening was the presentation of the Royes Family Scholarship to two deserving young adult family members: Page Patterson and Jensine Churnu. Following the announcement, Chris Maylor, with a burst of enthusiasm, shouted, "I will donate $1,000!"—sparking an impromptu donation frenzy. Family members eagerly followed suit, pledging thousands of dollars to support the scholarship fund, creating a heartwarming display of generosity and unity.
As the formalities concluded, the banquet seamlessly transformed into a lively dance party. The DJ, with impeccable skill, kept the energy high, spinning an irresistible mix of music that had everyone on their feet—from nostalgic dancehall oldies to the latest hip hop and Afrobeat hits. The dance floor came alive as family members performed classic moves like the Electric Slide, Wobble, and Footloose, alongside trendy TikTok dances.
The joy was infectious, the laughter endless, and the bonds of family stronger than ever, making the Saturday Evening Gala a night to remember.
