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Born in May Pen, Jamaica, my journey began under the care of my grandaunt, whose love for nature and quiet wisdom shaped my early impressions of the world. It was with her that I first fell in love with Art, captivated by a book of Bible stories filled with vivid illustrations. This marked the beginning of my lifelong affair with creativity.
I began my education at Basic School and transitioned to formal schooling in Portmore, where a butterfly painting exercise remains etched in my memory. Art has been a constant companion in my life. In Kingston, I discovered the performing arts through the Little Theatre Kathy Levy and Ashé, opening new avenues for creative expression. Dance classes at the Little Theatre were followed by trips to the library, enriching both my body and mind.
However, my experience with sports was bittersweet; while I was fast and eager, a coach’s insistence on events I didn’t enjoy led me to rebel, teaching me the importance of honoring my boundaries. After being held back from high school due to age (too young they said), I faced my first taste of self-sabotage and disengagement. Despite these setbacks, I eventually attended a prestigious all-girls high school, balancing academic success with personal trauma. A major robbery in Ewarton shattered my sense of safety, and I suffered in silence while performing arts became my saving grace. I received no therapy. I graduated with thirteen subjects and accolades in art & sports, but my growing disillusionment with the treatment of female athletes led me to step away from softball and soccer, where support was lacking.
After graduating from high school in Jamaica, I moved to New Jersey to sit SATs. My Art teacher, Mr. Spinella, recognized my artistic talent and encouraged me to explore it fully. A trip to portfolio day cemented my desire to become an artist. While exploring my artistic potential, I was often asked if I modelled.
Initially hesitant, I was approached by a New York fashion photographer on a beach in Portland, Jamaica. This serendipitous encounter led to multiple modeling contracts in New York, a decision that changed my life.
New York City was a whirlwind of creativity and the first time I lives away from everyone and everything I knew. I walked Fashion Week, mingled with celebrities, and thrived in the city’s vibrant atmosphere. Fashion opened many doors, yet the world of art continued to call me back. I later returned to Jamaica to pursue a Bachelor’s degree at Edna Manley College of Visual and Performing Arts, where I truly reconnected with my creative core. After graduating, I pursued a higher education in the US and Europe, specializing in Art Psychotherapy.
Despite facing bullying, colourism, and personal abuse throughout my life, I refused to be defined by others’ narratives. I explored the power of community work and art therapy, traveling globally to collaborate on murals, teach various artistic disciplines, and work with cities, governments, and businesses. My research has taken me across the the world, collaborating with university professors on projects promoting healing and educating through art. Notable collaborations include major art brands such as Winsor & Newton, Liquitex, and Canson, amongst others.
Currently residing in Europe, I continued modeling, designing, and engaging in art therapy, designing experiences for events, stages, interiors; aiding designers as well as I’ve worked with esteemed global brands like BMW, Dior, Chloé and Nike, LVMH, contributing to a fusion of fashion, branding, and artistic expression.
My heart remains connected to Jamaica, where I aim to contribute to mental health initiatives. My journey has been one of resilience and self-expression, and I hope to inspire others to forge their own paths and create beautiful worlds.
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