About Us – rozapromotions

History of ROZA Promotions, Inc.

Building Community, Preserving Heritage

ROZA Promotions, Inc. (ROZA) was established in Staten Island in February 1981 during a wave of West African refugee resettlement, particularly from Liberia, Sierra Leone, Ghana, and Guinea. Many of the new arrivals had limited prior schooling, and approximately 85% of refugee children were functioning below grade level. This created an urgent need for academic and social support to prevent school failure and negative youth outcomes.

The organization was established by Mr. Rufus Arkoi, a Liberian community leader who had previously created a successful youth soccer and community program in Liberia in 1981. Building on a community needs assessment, an NYU Trauma Center study, and his own observations, Mr. Arkoi developed after-school programs focused on academic improvement, homework assistance, and personal development.

In 1995, he expanded the initiative by launching a soccer program for African immigrant and refugee youth in Staten Island. The first team, the Park Hill Rangers, later grew into a full sports program that included:

ROZA — A Name That Stands for Survival & Hope

The name ROZA means “survivor” in an African language and also serves as an acronym of Mr. Arkoi’s name—reflecting the mission of supporting children and youth who are survivors of war and displacement.

Over time, ROZA expanded its offerings to include:

The summer program grew to include the African Cup of Nations on Staten Island, attracting participation from West African communities across the U.S.

By 2002, ROZA also expanded its services beyond New York, opening branches in Minnesota, Ohio, Missouri, New Jersey and Buduburam Refugee Camp in Ghana to serve additional Liberian youth.