Island Issue 08

ISLAND ISSUE

Celebrating Women of all Shades, Shapes and Sizes

EDITOR’S

LETTER In this annually themed issue, I share my Caribbean cultural identity because it inspired the need for me to create something that women could relate to visually, socially and culturally. My upbringing in the Caribbean meant that I had the privilege of appreciating the simple things in life like being surrounded by nature and loved ones. But I also had exposure to a wealth of opportunity in my education and career choices as a young woman in the UK. Just like me, many women acknowledge and appreciate how the balance between their cultural heritages forms strong identities or inspire an innovative business venture. In my case, it has led to the creation of this magazine for cosmopolitan women with a strong sense of cultural identity. The Caribbean’s relaxing vibe has proven to be an inspirational haven for my personal revitalisation and development of ideas. After taking

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a long break in Jamaica and Grenada, integrating myself into communities and socialising with locals, I wanted this issue to evade the stereotypical notion that everyone spends their time on the beach lounging in short pants and flip flops. We profile women from colder climates who have opted for life in the tropics; we show off Caribbean women with a great sense of style and unveil some truths about how men view the Vagina, from Trinidad to Jamaica. I hope that through this issue you can gain a perspective of the Caribbean that stretches far beyond its blue skies.

Kered Clement Editor-in-Chief

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CONTEN Island Issue

6 Complexd Beauty A Caribbean People

12 Complexd style Island Style

22 Complexd Profiles European in the Caribbean

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30 COVER STORY Beaten but not Broken

40 Complexd Features Sun, Sand, Sea and Supermodels

52 Complexd Fashion Sweetness

NTS 66 Complexd Fashion Express Yuhself Back in One Piece

Editor-in-Chief Kered Clement Sub Editor Darcel de Vlugt Creative Director Rachel Irwin House Photographer Frederique Rapier www.frederiquerapier.com

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Cover Latoya Hawthorne by Jenn Hoffman www.jennhoffmanphotography.com Makeup Artist | Shelly Samia

Complexd Man Jimmel Daniel

100 Complexd Travel + Lifestyle Corporate to Caribbean

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COMPLEXDBeauty

A CARIBBEAN PEOPLE Portrait Series by Frederique Rapier The first instalment of the A Caribbean People series was realised in collaboration with COMPLEXD Magazine in a two-fold concept: representing the diversity of Caribbean people across all islands and celebrating women’s natural beauty.

The project stems from my desire to create a visual mosaic of Caribbean people in a manner that removes external associations such as nationality, or the attempt to label and trace ethnic heritage. While the process of finding subjects involves selecting from all islands, those details are undisclosed in order for the viewer to have direct interaction with all these faces as one people. Islanders might feel strongly about their nationality in some situations, while in others, their cultural and ethnic heritage might take precedence. Here, we only have to appreciate the unifying factor of simply being Caribbean.

Parallel to this is the particular framing and close-up view of our subjects to challenge COMPLEXD readers’ notion of beauty head on. The subjects stare right at the viewer at what could be deemed as an ‘unflattering’ angle. The skin is left bare and the treatment raw for the eye to gradually ease into the textures and variations in complexions, the shapes of their faces, and the colours of their eyes. I hope that you can find beauty, power and integrity in these women and yourselves by connecting with these images that have not been modelled to unrealistic and unachievable ‘perfection’.

This brave new look on editorial beauty is a testament to celebrating women and embracing what makes us imperfectly perfect. The hard work is in believing it within ourselves.

A Caribbean People is an ongoing project.

Photography and words by Frederique Rapier Make-up by Viola Bea - www.violabea.com

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‘I drink a blend of aloe vera, celery, coconut water, lime and honey every 2 weeks’

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‘I grew up on local fruit juice; my mum was always blending a concoction of fresh fruit’

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‘I use coconut oil to cleanse my face and for a wash out I drink aloe vera and bitter cucumber’

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‘When I’m in the Caribbean, I eat a lot of avocado and visit the hot springs. I’ve heard the mud makes for a good facial’

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STREET ISLAND

ST Y LE

The street style phenomenon captures fashionable individuals in larger cities. Complexd travelled to the Caribbean to find fashion forward women who were also setting their own trends at beach and boat parties.

Images courtesy of Skkan Media Entertainment – www.skkanme.com

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NOT YOUR REGULAR ONE-PIECE Who said all in ones were boring? If you find unique one-pieces with quirky cut outs, then it can be just as sexy as a bikini.

Images courtesy of Skkan Media Entertainment – www.skkanme.com

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BRIGHT + BOLD These stylish island ladies know that all it takes is a bright necklace to add that extra edge on an out-fit. They also know that if the neck adornment is bold there is no need for overbearing earrings.

Images courtesy of Anthony Maugee www.TriniJungleJuice.com

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L U S T I N G A F T E R L E A O PA R D We’ve seen animal prints on the runways and on the high street and now these curvaceous Caribbean ladies are showing us how it’s done on the beach.

Images courtesy of Skkan Media Entertainment – www.skkanme.com

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HAIRAISERS

Why not make a fashion statement that turns the attention to your head. Need we say more about this high fashion fascinator and creative way of styling natural hair?

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Images courtesy of Anthony Maugee www.TriniJungleJuice.com

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COMPLEXDprofiles

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EUROPEAN IN THE

CARIBBEAN Image by Gary Jordan Photography www.garyjordan.com

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SLOVAKIA TO JAMAICA Name | Lubica Slovak Age | 28 Occupation | Fashion Designer Place of birth | Slovakia Current residence | Kingston, Jamaica

I was born in Slovakia and lived in Toronto for a few years positive attitude and good energy they will embrace you and before officially moving to Jamaica two years ago. I have help in any way possible. always wanted to live in the Caribbean; I first visited Jamaica in 2000 and returned frequently until I decided to make my I run my own fashion label in Jamaica. Because of the tropical move. When I moved to Jamaica I didn’t know anyone. climate I use light fabrics and lots of colours. Being based in In each community everyone grows up together, so most Jamaica sometimes has its challenges because of the lack people have known each other since they were kids. It wasn’t of materials and professional help. It is a small market so always easy infiltrating that circle as an outsider but once export is an option that must be explored. But the positive you’re in, you’re in. It’s been a very long time since I lived in side of being a designer in Jamaica is that you really get to Slovakia but the majority of my family lives there. I really enjoy know your customer well. When you do quality work and visiting home and being around them so I really miss my pay attention to details you can definitely make a good name family when I’m in Jamaica, but for yourself and have a very loyal customer I’ve met lots of amazing people Generally I think it is important for ‘I already loved the music base. and they have made being away Jamaican designers to design quality clothing and enjoyed the food; all I for their market and not for themselves. from my family a lot easier. of Jamaicans prefer to shop on-line or had to do was learn some Lots overseas. If more quality and trendy clothing dance moves!’

In the Caribbean you’re was produced in Jamaica, I strongly believe surrounded by beautiful beaches that locals would support it even more. and nature. In Jamaica I love the diversity in the culture and the value people place on spending time with family and I am working on my new Lubica collection. I am also working each other. At first I was a little surprised by the laid back on exporting Lubica to more islands in the Caribbean, attitude towards everything, especially business. When it Canada and the US; I also have a boutique in Kingston, rains here, everything just stops! But I didn’t find it really hard Jamaica called Belle which I aim to expand. I would like to to adjust to the culture because I already loved the music make the brand more available to my customers in Europe and enjoyed the food; all I had to do was learn some dance as well, but right now I am very comfortable here. Maybe I moves! Living in the Caribbean has its ups and downs just used to live in the Caribbean in one of my past lives! like everywhere else. For some people, moving from a big city to a small island might take some adjusting, but people Check out Lubica’s label at www.lubica.com in the Caribbean are very friendly and once you come with a

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SWEDEN TO ST LUCIA Name | Linda Lopez Age | 35 Occupation | Creative Director Place of Birth | Malmö, Sweden Current Residence | St Lucia, West Indies

I was born and bred in Sweden, in a town called Malmö, to continue to do what I was passionate about. I did a which is by the sea, so I have always loved going to the bit of research and found Star Publishing Company, which beach even though the summers in Sweden are very short. publishes SHE Caribbean magazine, Tropical Traveller and Before I moved to St Lucia, I was studying Communication The St Lucia Star Newspaper. I guess you could say I was Design/Art and Advertising Design at the New York College in the right place at the right time; their previous Creative of Technology. While living in New York I Director had just left, so when I met with met my ex husband, who lived in Miami. ‘If you want to live on publisher Mae Wayne I was offered the job When he was offered a job to open a new an island go with an right away. resort in St Lucia, we decided to make the move. Although his work situation I’ve lived in St Lucia for six years now and open mind’ was stable, it was very important for me I love so many things about the lifestyle.

Sometimes I have a heavy workload but when I am off work there are so many things in close proximity to enjoy.

I absolutely love having BBQs on the beach with friends.

Having a great social life in the Caribbean is very easy because people are very friendly. Everybody makes more of an effort to see their friends and loved ones. In general the pace of life is a lot slower here; everything takes longer than it would at home in Sweden, so sometimes I miss the structure back home. Sweden is a very efficient and fast-paced country so it’s easier and quicker when you need to get things done. That’s what used to drive me nuts about St Lucia, but I am finally getting used to it. One day I stopped stressing about it and decided to just go with the flow.

My main challenge when moving to St Lucia was coping with the size of the country. In your personal life you have very little privacy, because everybody knows everybody and on a small island you get a little cut off from the rest of the world, so professionally there is not much inspirational exposure to developments in art and graphics. There are pluses and minuses and I have adapted to the Caribbean lifestyle by accepting certain things. Some things will never change so you have to change. Which is why I would say if you want to live on an island go with an open mind, and expect things to be very different. Make sure you can tolerate summer all year round… and get a Skype account!

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GERMANY TO GRENADA Name | Johanna Kostka Occupation | Founder Sunsation Tours Place of birth | Gifhorn, Germany Current residence | St Georges, Grenada I grew up in a small town in the North of Germany. I have such fond memories of my hometown, the roads were lined with apple trees and cars were few and far between, so the streets were our playground. During the summer we would walk around with bare feet.

and Grenadians. It took some time for people to accept me as a European woman in Grenada, but my main challenge was survival and making sure I had good babysitters for my daughter. Hard work, perseverance and dedication to the tourism industry, as well as my love for Grenada made Sunsation what it is today: one of the most successful tour companies on the island.

I enjoyed summer much more, so in the winter of 1979 I decided to backpack around Australia for 4 months. That led to a flight to New York, then I love life in Grenada! The temperature California by bus and St ‘Our luxury bathroom consisted of a is consistent; fruits, vegetables, fish Maarten by boat. We toured and the air we breathe are fresh the islands in an engine- bucket for a toilet and a bucket to pull all year round and strangers greet less wooden boat that was up sea water for bathing, solar panels and acknowledge each other. My dependent on the wind. Our favourite activity is something we call luxury bathroom consisted powered our radio so we could listen hashing. I love nature, exercising, of a bucket for a toilet and a meeting people and rediscovering to reggae tunes’. bucket to pull up sea water Grenada‘s landscape; during our for bathing and we had solar panels that powered our radio hashes we hike through hilltops, bushes and rivers seeking so we could listen to our favourite reggae tunes. I slept in the out incredible untouched areas. cargo bunk next to cases of wine from St. Maarten which we traded on other islands. It was the greatest adventure of Life in Grenada is expensive so my advice to someone my life. wanting to move here is to come with a solid business plan and visit at different times of the year before settling to see Winter in Germany was approaching, so I planned a pronto if you can tolerate all the seasons. Mosquitoes tend to eat trip to Grenada, Barbados, St Vincent, Bequia and Union visitors alive between June and December; there are threats Island in Carriacou. That’s when I met Rasta Coach, a of heavy showers and floods during hurricane season; and charming Rastafarian man who was a bit of a womanizer. the dry season leaves you with no water from the mains, so Nevertheless I fell head over heels in love with him. We patience and positivity is key. I recently moved to a house on wrote letters to each other after my return to Germany but I top of a hill. It has a 180-degree view and reminds me of why was already in love with Grenada’s natural beauty, waterfalls, I moved to this heavenly place. rainforests and the friendliness of its people… and of course Rasta Coach. I left Germany in 1985 for good and within a few months of living in Grenada I fell pregnant. When my daughter was a year old I started working for a tour company doing island tours in German and English. I worked hard and earned very little money, so I turned my small 3-bedroom house into a guesthouse.

May 1989 was a tragic time in my life; Rasta Coach and a few other men got lost at sea and were never seen again. It was the first time I felt alone on the island but I had my beautiful baby to support so I snapped back into it and formed my own tour company Sunsation Tours. In the beginning it was difficult because locals would often tell me that I was ‘taking the butter from their bread’. It was hurtful that they felt that way because I had a lot of respect for Grenada

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COMPLEXD

FEATURES Photographed by Jenn Hoffman Make-up by Shelly Samia

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BEATEN

BUT NOT BROKEN

Photographed by Markus Goerg www.markusgoerg.com Makeup Artist- Soreya Yann

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Cover story

was still no light at the end of the tunnel; ‘There instead I sunk deeper into darkness and started doing drugs ’

It all started when Latoya Hawthorne’s mother got a new boyfriend. Witnessing their constant physical and emotional fights at a young age left her under the false illusion that a woman should do whatever a man told her to do because he was the sole provider. At 26 years of age she tells us how low self-esteem nearly stole her life.

My sisters and I were raised by my mother and grandmother in Kingston, Jamaica. We were considered upper-class citizens because we had a housekeeper and chauffeur. My mother worked hard to make sure we could live in a beautiful community and enjoy little luxuries; because of that, she was hardly ever home. Christianity is a big deal in Jamaica, so we started our days with praise and worship. Schooling was very strict and advanced and punishments would be in the form of a ruler or a very thick leather belt. I was an obedient child so I never had got ‘beats’ at school. As we got older, areas of Kingston were getting more dangerous and I remember one afternoon when we were leaving church we heard gunshots go off. There were lots of political riots back then which sometimes cost the lives of innocent citizens. My mother and father tried their utmost best to protect and shelter us from harm. They were separated at the time but they made a joint decision on building a better life for us in the US. My father was already living in New York and his side of the family were a little better off because of the Golden Krust Bakery they developed from my grandparents’ business venture in St Andrews, Jamaica. Golden Krust has over 120 various locations across the US and because of its earlier success I had a happy and privileged life in Jamaica.

When we moved to the US I loved the city life and how diverse it was, but I didn’t like school. I had learned things in Jamaica that I had to learn all over again in Miami, so I remember going through a period of rebellion because I didn’t feel challenged.

That wasn’t the only issue that caused my behaviour. I shared my time with my parents between New York and Miami. This meant moving to various different schools. I never felt like I belonged anywhere. When I was diagnosed with arthritis at the age of 7, it made everything worse. It didn’t really

matter to me until people at school started calling me old lady. There were times when I was in chronic pain and had to be on crutches for support. I was not able to go to theme parks like kids my age so I spent most of my time reading and watching TV. Arthritis is associated with the elderly so at times I felt like my childhood was stolen from me. I remember seeking solitude in Victoria’s Secret fashion shows on TV. I used to sit and imagine that I could grow wings like the models and fly away. My friends and family would laugh at me because they thought I was too skinny and nerdy. I didn’t think much of myself because my adenoids gave me a highpitched, nasally voice and I never smiled because my teeth were crooked and yellow. My grandmother always told me I could do whatever I wanted to do in life, despite what others may believe. She was the only one who always told me that I was beautiful. So when I got my first boyfriend at 18 I idolized him. He was a handsome Italian-American man that I met the first night I went out to a club. I remember thinking he was drunk when he approached me because I believed I was ugly. He wore the latest trends and drove a nice car. I never told him about my insecurities. For the first time in my life, I felt accepted and loved for my beauty. He made me feel special. He would tell me what to wear, how to speak, and eventually started to control my entire life.

One night I was driving my boyfriend home from a friend’s house. He wanted to use my car but when I told him he had to bring it back before I got home, he got extremely upset and crushed the can of soda I was drinking with my hands. It cut me and I immediately pushed him away. He then pushed me down to the floor and punched me repeatedly in the head. When I screamed he bit me to shut me up. –

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‘I had to almost die to wake up and realize I had a purpose in life’

I ran into the house in shock to call the police. He chased after me and ripped the cord out of the wall. Neighbours who heard the commotion called the police and when they arrived I was standing there in my bloodstained sweat suit with blood dripping from my face telling them nothing had happened. Bemused by my statement, they arrested him anyway because he had a crack pipe on him. We had been together for 3 years and that was the first time I realised that he was doing drugs.

who helped me to recover. I was 15 lbs lighter than usual because of crack cocaine. I had acne, yellow teeth and scars caused by my boyfriend. With the help and guidance of loved ones, I self-rehabilitated and decided to follow my dream of becoming a Victoria’s Secret model. I went to different agencies and it was always the same response. Noone was interested! I never knew what the real reason was but in my head, I thought it was because of my abuse scars but I didn’t let that stop me.

There was no voice deep down telling me to leave. I needed him so much, so when he was in prison I moved into his place to take care of his dog. He got out of a jail a couple of months later and everything went back to normal but this time he felt more comfortable using drugs in front of me.

Then the abuse got worse, he would constantly beat me and accuse me of lying. He sold most of my possessions to pay for his habit and would tell my friends and family that I was somewhere else even when I was sitting in the same room. If I made a sound, I would get a beating. I would cry at night and pray to not wake up the next day. He would do the most evil things to me and I didn’t understand because all I did was love him. That’s why I started cutting myself; I would take tweezers or nail clipper and pick at my wrists.

When I became self-destructive, he started believing I was planning to kill him too. Despite the constant abuse, I still loved him. He would always apologize afterwards and I believed he meant it. Sometimes I’d leave and he would cry over the phone that he needed me and no one else loved him and cared about him like I did. He was bipolar and I felt responsible. There was still no light at the end of the tunnel, instead I sunk deeper into darkness and started doing drugs with him.

In 2007 I moved to California and started freelancing. I was lucky to work with some of California’s finest photographers.

It wasn’t easy. I collaborated on a TFP basis until I built my portfolio. I got signed last year after getting turned down numerous times. I have walked at LA Fashion Week, I did a beauty workshop for NARS Cosmetics and my biggest accomplishment was when I looked in the mirror and liked what I saw. It took me 25 years to build my confidence and self-esteem. You have to dig deep and be prepared to fight your inner fears. That’s why I volunteer for a non-profit organisation called ‘Knock-Outs for Girls’. It’s made up of female boxers who put on fights to raise money for young girls and women. These women are beautiful boxers from all different backgrounds who raise money to create awareness about domestic violence, eating disorders and drug abuse.

It’s like a sisterhood that mentors young girls and helps them with educational resources, and teaches them boxing and self-defence and how to live a healthy lifestyle. Some of the cases are really severe so we just provide support and show up for them whenever they need us.

I never thought I would be a victim of domestic abuse. Even though I saw my mother go through the same thing I was always sheltered by its reality because my grandmother was always around to protect us. But because I lacked selfworth, I believed the only positive thing about my life was my boyfriend. I thought I was going to have a family with this man. This was it for me; he was my everything. I did eventually escape from the clutches of my boyfriend and I was placed in a home with love and support. It was my sister

My experiences and the support network of women I have met has encouraged me to start my own organization to empower young women. I am currently studying for my degree in Sociology as well as taking a program to become a certified domestic violence counsellor. I also started writing a book about overcoming my adversities, hitting rock bottom, and eventually turning my life around. I had to almost die to wake up and realize I had a purpose in life. I want to share my personal journey with young women in the hope that I can reach out to those in a similar situation. I’ve been through quite a lot of turmoil in my young life but I believe it has made me a stronger woman.

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‘Mi like your lips baby and mi not talking about the ones on your face’

PUNNYPRINTER While on a culturally enlightening trip, Editor-in-Chief Kered Clement finds out that in the Caribbean, the word ‘fluffy’ describes much more than a cuddly toy.

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COMPLEXD INVESTIGATES

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‘Tighter Vaginas have better friction, making sex more pleasurable in the same way that some women prefer men with more girth’ On my recent trip to Jamaica I discovered that the words ‘fluffy’ (big) and ‘buff’ (fit) are also words used to describe a Vagina. And my discovery was not a discreet one because this bold reference to a woman’s private parts can be expressed by any random man on the street who notices a bulge between your legs. For example the man in the bakery shop who shouted at a woman in the queue wearing bright blue leggings: ‘Mi like your lips baby and mi not talking about the ones on your face’.

When I described the shocking but comical scene to a Jamaican female, she politely advised me to avoid wearing ‘punny printers’. For non-Jamaicans, that means tightly fitting bottoms that indiscreetly cling to the crotch area.

This desired trait that Jamaican men like to openly celebrate is none-other than the dreaded camel toe, that very same thing that results in paparazzi shots of celebrities being published in gossip magazines with large red circles drawing attention to the wedged area. Blogger Richie Drenz, who describes his blog as ‘Jamaica’s Best Erotic Novel’, rather enjoys revelling in this little mishap. In one of his regular segments, ‘Cameltoe Exposed’, he asks his readers to rate each celebrity’s camel toe. The camel toe is something derided in western culture; it’s unflattering and simply embarrassing, so why would anyone want to rate it? Richie explains, ‘I had more female readers than male ones, so to increase my male audience I started adding more visually stimulating posts like cameltoe exposed which attracted more men’. So why do Jamaican men prefer to see ‘fluffy’ and ‘buff’ Vaginas on display and in the bedroom? Could it be that male dancehall artistes make such a big deal of it in their music and is this resulting in women feeling inferior if they don’t possess that desired look or feel when it comes to sex?

25-year-old Shanique Daniel from Montego Bay, Jamaica, believes that dancehall music has a massive influence on young people in Jamaica and it does sometimes

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distort young women’s view of what they were born with. I had an encounter myself that really highlights Shanique’s point and my investigation into the underlying effects of this preference.

I was enjoying a relaxing day at the beach, lounging on the sand, when two young Jamaican girls invited me for a swim. Before going into the water they giggled embarrassingly and decided not to remove their shorts. I jokingly replied: ‘Time for a shape up!’ referring to the untamed bikini area that British women always joke about before going on holiday. The younger of the two swiftly replied, ‘No! It fat; mi don’t want any man to notice it’. The ‘it’ she was referring to was her Vagina, and she didn’t want to draw too much attention to herself by just wearing her bikini bottoms. In Jamaica, the way the female genitalia should look is in stark contrast to British women. In the UK, more women are opting for labial reduction and reshaping operations on the NHS to decrease any unsightly protrusion.

While women are undergoing surgery to tighten the vulva and neaten the area, some women in Jamaica want men to notice how ‘buff’ their bits look. But who wrote the rule book on the aesthetics of the Vagina, and how do we know what is normal and abnormal?

Aside from our partners, the only people to see us up close and personal would be a gynaecologist, nurse or our waxing specialists. Sian Clements has been a therapist for 20 years and is the owner of LIFESPA. Over the years, she has done treatments on a number of women who have all expressed some sort of embarrassment or dissatisfaction with their bodies. ‘I make it very clear to my clients that I have seen women of all shapes, sizes and ages, but women will always have hang-ups because there are too many options and procedures that allow them to change what they were born with,’ she adds.

Having worked intimately with women, I ask Sian why she thinks British women are seeking a different look compared to Jamaican women.

‘Women in the UK have complexes about their Vaginas because of porn culture. Women already compare themselves to what they see in magazines but because porn is so readily available, women and men are starting to compare Vaginas to those of porn actresses.

In fact, one of our therapists treated a very distraught client who was embarrassed by her labia because her partner had said it was oversized compared to what he had seen with other women and in porn movies.’

Either way, men seem to determine what is desirable and what is off-putting, because, unless your profession required you to do so, women would previously have opted for a simple bikini shape up rather than the Hollywood waxes of the strippers and porn stars and the Brazilian waxes of the swimwear and lingerie models. ‘I think the reason why women come in for a Brazilian or Hollywood wax has a lot to do with their partners. Some people might object but women are natural people pleasers, so we are prepared to go that extra mile if our partners want us to,’ Sian admits.

Although I was set in my mind that what I had experienced in Jamaica was far more in-yer-face, Sian expressed to me that she felt the UK was still more progressive about the issue of Vaginas than most countries. ‘I’ve lived in Greece and women are not so concerned about things like that there, it’s much more shrouded in secrecy whereas we’re much more open in the UK’. But the issue of Vaginas in Jamaica is not a hushed topic amongst women and their partners; men openly state that they prefer women who they are having sexual encounters with to have tighter Vaginas.

Whilst researching some lyrics, which were too vulgar to mention, a lot of it was quite direct and uncompromising about the variations of Vagina – some suggested that women who are not tight sleep around and that if it was not ‘fluffy’ it was not as enjoyable. Richie Drenz says: ‘Insecurity over sexual organs in Jamaica goes both ways.

A while ago I asked my female readers if they would marry a man with a small penis, 15% said it depends on how they use it and 85% said no. There are also songs where female dancehall artistes chant lyrics like, “don’t want no short dick man”. These things show that there are more women who will not have sex with a man who has a small penis, but not many men would disregard a women who does not have a buff or tight Vagina’. Richie’s point could be a case of female backlash to the degrading lyrics released by male artistes, but even from a female perspective the lines were blurred. When I asked Shanique about her views on whether having a tight Vagina matters or not, she proudly pronounced, ‘In Jamaica the saying goes, the tighter the better and if it’s not tight you won’t keep your man. I agree; there are a lot of women ready to replace you so as far as I am concerned I have the “good good ole” (the term to describe a good Vagina).’ –

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Shanique’s response left me bewildered; here was a career-minded, positive young woman whose views were shaped by the oppressive male notion that the look and feel of her Vagina determined whether she kept her man or not. Dr Annecka Marshall Lecturer in Gender and Development Studies at University of the West Indies, Jamaica, who has conducted research on the historical and social construction of Black female sexuality, expresses her worries: ‘I am particularly concerned about the regulation of women’s sexuality by men. I think that young Jamaican women adopt male definitions of their sexuality which is why it’s important that they challenge derogatory images about their sexuality and reject negative treatment’.

Dr Marshall had told me about her interest in Black feminist empowerment, so I was curious to know if she believed that lewd dancehall lyrics contributed to this sexual inferiority.

‘The dancehall industry and lyrics reflect the hyper-sexualisation of women that is prevalent in Caribbean culture and sexually-explicit songs perpetuate masculine bravado, stamina and sexual conquests that degrade women; but many poor women perceive dancehall and reggae culture as means of escapism for unbridled sensual satisfaction, strength and survival strategies. They view the brazen manner that they flaunt their dress, demeanour and dance as sexually liberating’.

Dr Marshall also brought to light another side of story, which could make sense of Shanique’s earlier views about the ‘good good ole’. She explained how Jamaican women use men’s ‘good’ and ‘bad’ characterisation of their Vaginas to empower themselves or manipulate men: ‘“Pum pum” is the Jamaican euphemism for the Vagina. There is a saying that many women possess “pum pum power”, which means giving good sexual pleasure with tightness and having the knowledge and skill to use your Vaginas for the extended pleasure of both partners. With this skill women can use their “pum pum power” as a bargaining tool to get money and possessions from men’. It is argued that women can use their sexual appeal to dominate male behaviour by withholding sex. But Dr Marshall asserts that debates about ‘pum pum power’ do not reflect the hardships that many women face such as trying to gain sexual satisfaction, having sex against their will and being victims of male violence.

After listening to the balanced opinions about this topic, I was more opened minded about how Jamaican men and women relate to the Vagina. The young men and women I spoke to in Jamaica were unmindful of the effects I believed this was having on them, with the exception of Gender and Development Studies lecturer Dr Annecka Marshall, who, like myself, has been educated about the fight for female equality and feminist movements.

This article may or may not have proven that young women in Jamaica are affected by the preferences of their men, but it could show how psycho-analysing other cultures can lead to biased conclusions when you don’t take into consideration cultural norms, socialisation and education.

Every country and culture has positive and negative aspects and some cultural norms can result in female repression. This is why I feel it is important to self-educate and share knowledge with women who may not have been exposed to the same empowering information. When I heard the comments of the girls on the beach in Jamaica, I automatically went into feminist mode; and instead of belittling their opinions, I listened and enlightened them on why they should not let men define what makes them a woman.

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Images by Peter Dean Rickards www.peterdeanrickards.com

‘“Pum pum” is the Jamaican euphemism for the Vagina. There is a saying that many women possess “pum pum power”’

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‘Jamaican models are physically and mentally different from other models. We are not shy and reserved which I believe we have our cultural background to thank for that’ – Canise, Base Models, Cape Town

Sun, Sand,Sea and Supermodels Words by Mario Davis

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‘I am very proud of my Jamaican-ness - there are a lot of Models that are Jamaican. I think we are all proud to have achieved some successes in what is a really tough business on the inside’ – Sigail, New York Model Management

Outside of Reggae, bananas and athletics, there is a burgeoning phenomenon stemming from Jamaica that is already primed for export – and one which should be of key interest in the international fashion industry. Gone are the days of a languid and carefree Jamaica – known only for its sun, sand and sea – a new ‘S’ is emerging which is showily demanding a place in the spotlight. Enter the Supermodels – well-heeled and well-coifed, they are intent on making their presence felt.

Spirited, opinionated and assertive, the energy of the Jamaican people is perhaps dwarfed only by the unseen but almost mystical energy which runs throughout the length and breadth of the island.

It is no surprise therefore that the Jamaican fashion model herself is sassy and bold. She is buoyant with inherent spunk and a seeming island naiveté. It is an unusual blend which seems to enthral and disarm even the most discerning casting director. When asked what sets Jamaican models apart from the rest, model Sigail Currie who has worked with clients such YSL and Agent Provocateur answers emphatically, “Confidence!” –

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Sigail @ New York Model Management

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She reasons, “I think our cultural and economic reality forces us to be strong and confident. [Although] I think sometimes... it is even misunderstood and taken out of context as being cocky.” Canise Jackson, French Diva cover-girl who has the distinction for working in over 7 international markets, agrees, saying, “We are friendlier and [more] open. Not shy and reserved. I believe we have our cultural background to thank for that!”

These misconceptions aside, Jamaicans continue to rank second-to-none in the entire English-speaking Caribbean for model signing and placements. Armed with sun-kissed bodies, sculpted cheekbones and superstar names, these girls are also as diverse and as determined as they come. Collectively, they aim to chart new territories and build hugely successful careers. Their job - which requires that they leave home or pack at a moment’s notice - is not easy but it has become second-nature; the constant travelling and being away from family are cited as the most difficult parts of the job. Nevertheless, through their accomplishments, they continue to hold the esteem of local girls, inspiring many to consider the still somewhat unconventional work of modelling. What becomes evident is that while the supermodels lend their faces and names to major brands abroad, they are in turn building brands and legacies of their own, right here at home.

Emboldened by the enormously successful careers and larger-than-life personalities of icons such as Grace Jones, Lois Samuels, Georgianna Robertson, Stacy McKenzie and Nadine Willis, local agencies do not have an easy job. Nonetheless, model enthusiasts worldwide have been finding favour in today’s current crop of stars like Jaunel McKenzie who peaked at number 29 on models.com world ranking; Jeneil Williams, whose unique beauty graced the covers of numerous established fashion magazines; Nell Robinson, featured in campaigns for J-Lo and Victoria’s Secret; Gaye McDonald, the winner of Caribbean Model Search 2005 who was chosen for a Benetton spring ad campaign; and Sedene Blake, who has walked for many established designers. There are a few more waiting in the wings too, being carefully and patiently groomed by the island’s top agencies; which creditably from their efforts, have resulted in Jamaicans being signed to leading international agencies in each of the four major fashion capitals. –

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‘Shena Moulton and Jeneil Williams have fronted campaigns for Marc Jacobs and Diet Coke’

Since this recent Jamaican invasion, supermodels were only thought to exist farsouth in neighbouring countries like Brazil or the more eastern Dominican Republic and Puerto Rico. The tides of ‘supermodel-dom’ are however changing; Jamaica is popping up on every scout’s radar, becoming one of the veritable places to scout fresh new talent. And with an enviable track record that includes all facets of fashion and entertainment including runway, fit modelling, look books and editorials, multiple agency signings, catalogues, international music videos and most recently, lucrative ad campaigns (Shena Moulton and Jeneil Williams fronted campaigns for Marc Jacobs and Diet Coke respectively), these girls are stomping their class while no doubt becoming the darlings of the fickle and sometimes prejudicial fashion world. –

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‘With gangly limbs, legs that resemble a new-born foal and a strut like the rent is due Ornelia Edwards epitomises the exotic Jamaican beauty’

But while most of the fashion world may already know the likes of Shena Moulton, Jeneil Williams and others, it is also remarkable to note the newbies or first-timers that have been making an impact. A few include standouts like Alexia Palmer (Trump), Kimberlee Gordon (Elite London) and Tsheca White (Storm). One of the most impressive and best positioned for superstardom, however, is Ornelia Edwards. This striking beauty from St. Catherine, Jamaica only went international last year, and at just 16 years old, she already has the honour of being voted world “Model of the Week” by models.com. Signed to Muse and based in New York, Edwards is keeping up with her predecessors nary missing a beat. Her resume includes advertising for the global retail brand Urban Outfitters; and like Moulton and Williams before her, she has shot spreads for Teen Vogue and Harper’s Bazaar - all within her first year of being an international model.

With gangly limbs, legs that resemble a new-born foal and a strut like the rent is due, Ornelia epitomises the exotic Jamaican beauty. Her trademark freckles, pillowy lips and eyes which are almost cat-like make her both edgy and commercial.

It is therefore easy to see why she has become somewhat of a mainstay at New York Fashion Week, where she has been based since her introduction last September, walking for a mixture of formidable and eclectic designers alike. Her runway appearances include those heavyweights such as Marc Jacobs, Elie Tahari, Marchesa and Rad Hourani, as well as turns for more artisanal collections such Suno, Kimberly Orvitz, Timo Weiland and Rachel Comey (for whom she has walked every season). She also made an impressive debut in Paris this season by walking for the venerable Vivienne Westwood.

So what’s next on the horizons for these young ladies? Only time will tell, but with the groundwork that has been laid thus far, one is expecting even greater things.

Perhaps in the coming months there will be more editorials or even some highprofile campaigns. Whatever the case, their cohorts of loyal fans will continue to support, watch and beam with pride. In the meantime, we wish them all good fortunes. We also implore that they continue to be proud ambassadors and show the world why it’s super cool to be Jamaican.

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Gaye, Shena, Ornelia @ Muse NYC (Images courtesy of Muse NYC)

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FASHION

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‘SWEETNESS’ Photography by Antonina Dolani | Fashion by Lauren Miller

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Any woman who has toured the Caribbean sun-kissed in a sweet summer dress will know that not a day goes by without a sincere compliment from a male admirer.

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Make up | Gosia Walus Hair | Julia Skjelbred Model | Eirinie Hamil Retouch | LAH retouch & Antonina Dolani

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EXPRESS YUHSELF Photography by Gregory Prescott

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Women in the Caribbean are curvaceous and vivacious. If the DJ plays the right song, their spontaneous and good-spirited nature can be seen in the form of sensual and uninhibited dance moves.

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‘Bend your back and lift your head up, Turn side way lift your leg up’ – Tony Matterhorn, Dutty Wine

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‘The way you wine and the way you dance And the way that you twist and turn your waist Leaves me wanting, leaves me yearning Leaves me feeling for a taste’ – Rupee – Tempted To Touch

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Gyal bend over, drop to the ground, me love how you do your thing; girl you’re amazing, and you know say you proper

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– Machel Montano - Bend Ova

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Makeup by Drini and Roshar Models - Ambrielle Webb, Airess Padda, Sasha Kim

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BACKIN ONEPIECE Photography by Johanna Kreutzer | Fashion by Hermine Linnemann

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Swimsuit | Seafolly Jewellery | Yulyaffairs Jewelry, Stylists own

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Swimsuit | Seafolly Jewellery | Yulyaffairs Jewelry

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Swimsuit | Seafolly Jewellery | Yulyaffairs Jewelry

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Swimsuit | Elizabeth Hurley Jewellery | Yulyaffairs Jewelry, Mango Glasses | Max Mara

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Swimsuit | Fabiani Jewellery | Yulyaffairs Jewelry

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Swimsuit | Seafolly Jewellery | Yulyaffairs Jewelry

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Swimsuit | Fabiani Jewellery | Yulyaffairs Jewelry Art Directionn | Eduard Lohr Design Hair & Make up | Nicole Lesyk Model | Alyona@SEVEN MODELS Barcelona

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JIMMEL DANIEL Jimmel Daniel is the director and producer of the The Power of the Vagina (unveiled at Caribbean Film Corner in London) and The Almighty Penis. In each short film, he seeks out the names and stigma attached to each sexual organ and asks men and women in his homeland of Trinidad how they view sex and sexuality in the Caribbean.

Age | 23 Occupation | Filmmaker, Photographer, Graphic designer Place of birth | Trinidad and Tobago, Port of Spain General Hospital Current residence | Trinidad and Tobago

What makes you different from other Trinidadian film producers?

I like capturing life as I see it and I want to be the best at what I do. I am inspired by my own experiences; therefore what I produce is unique. I am passionate about creating something that people will remember for a very long time.

Why did you decide to make a film about a vaginas power and why did you follow up with the male version?

Talking about sex evokes interesting reactions and discourse. The vagina is usually the centre of attention. I knew that doing a documentary about the vaginas power would have created controversy between my audience and me. Doing a follow up with the male version made sense since they both fit so well together, plus viewers were eager for a follow-up.

Are you saying there is ‘Power in the Vagina’?

From a cultural point of view, I’m exploring the language that Caribbean people use to refer to the vagina and the penis, to topics about women’s rights and the egoistic behaviour of men. I wanted to examine the nature of sex in my country while investigating universal themes. Saying the vagina has power was a mechanism deployed to make people’s heads turn to challenge me and prove me wrong.

How has your film ‘The Power of the Vagina’ changed your perception of women?

I have a mother whom I respect and adore. I think women are beautiful. My perception about women has not changed, but I can definitely say I know a lot more about vaginas than I did before.

The Power of the Vagina and The Almighty Penis will officially be released in Jamaica and New York in 2012.

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‘It was fun doing the documentary, a lot of people wanted to make comments about me holding a large sign saying the word ‘VAGINA’ and the word ‘PENIS’. I guess something like that was never done in Trinidad and people found it amusing’

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Corporate to

Caribbean Photographs and words by Lebawit Lily Girma www.lebawitgirma.com

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‘I was already thirty-something, I had all the material things I was supposed to have at my age - car, house, money - but I had no happiness inside’

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‘My curiosity about Rastafarian culture and people and their love for Ethiopia brought me to Jamaica’ I’ve always thought of myself as being unique or rather, I’ve always been aware of my unusual background. I am Ethiopian raised in West Africa, with French and Amharic as my native tongues, and friends worldwide. All of those elements made me passionate and appreciative about discovering other countries and cultures.

I have this thirst for it and I’m happiest when I’m experiencing cultural moments, be it my own or someone else’s. It makes me come alive, so after 7 years of working as a full-time attorney at a large law firm in the US, I felt burned out. I liked practicing law but the practice area I was in – regulatory energy -wasn’t interesting to me, and the work atmosphere wasn’t healthy. It came to a point where I hated going into the office. One morning I was sitting at my desk in my big fancy office and I told myself that if I stayed there, I’d wake up twenty years later at 50, in the same place, and my life would have passed me by. It was a terrifying thought and it stirred me into action. I was already thirty-something, I had all the material things I was supposed to have at my age - car, house, money - but I had no happiness inside. I finally got tired of living a life that society expected me to live and I decided it was time I paid attention to what I wanted and what made me happy.

It wasn’t a last minute decision. I made sure I planned for it - paid off my debts, saved a good amount that I felt comfortable with and even had a life coach to help me work through some of my fears and interests and how to transition into another career. My life coach helped me realize that I had so much creativity in me that I hadn’t allowed myself to tap into because I was too busy doing what was expected of me. Growing up in my culture we were often told that education was the key – my dad didn’t joke about that; you had to be someone. Being someone meant a lawyer, doctor or an executive. There was nothing in there about art or fashion or exploring your creative side. My sister, who’s been a successful fashion designer for years, had to fight tooth and nail with my father back then to study fashion in New York. In the 80s, you just didn’t become a fashion designer; it wasn’t a stable profession. On the other hand I allowed myself to fall into that trap of doing what was right, what was expected and what made my parents happy.

But the irony is that my parents really just wanted me to be happy.

I was born in Addis but at the age of almost one, my parents moved our entire family from Ethiopia to Cote d’Ivoire (Ivory Coast) in West Africa because my dad had accepted a job offer at the African Development Bank. I was raised in the former French colony of Cote d’Ivoire but we continued to speak Ethiopia’s national language, eat our food and celebrate our holidays and traditions. I used to spend hours flipping through my parents’ photo albums – my dad used to travel a lot for work. They went to some amazing places like Paris, Rio de Janeiro, Harare, and South Korea. I wanted memories too - that’s how I always thought of it. The way I kept journals back then was also a clue that I would develop a passion for travel photography. When I decided to go on a sabbatical for a few months, I upgraded to an SLR and taught myself how to use it. –

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‘I get to see the vast types of people in the world, but the vendor can only use what is directly in front of him to shape his views’

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There are so many reasons why I chose to travel the Caribbean. Firstly I’d always wanted to go there and secondly St. Lucia was the first place I visited and I couldn’t believe how beautiful the beaches were and I was humbled by the warmth of the people. But most importantly, it was uncommon for an African to travel to or live in the Caribbean. Locals would tell me I was the first African and Ethiopian they ever met. I found it sad; seeing as so many islanders talk about or want to learn about our history, I felt compelled to share my upbringing and culture by infiltrating Caribbean communities.

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My curiosity for Rastafarian culture and the people and their love for Ethiopia brought me to Jamaica. I wanted to experience all the great things I saw in the media and in movies like the gorgeous beaches, the mountains, the food and music and of course, the land of Bob Marley. I decided to go solo and I was so stunned by how warmly I was received, and how friendly Jamaicans were. There isn’t a corner of the island where you can’t hear music being played from radios, restaurants or neighbours. There is so much musical talent in Jamaica; even the regular guy in town is skilled enough to play his guitar and crank out reggae covers at a corner bar.

‘My favourite food of the day was breakfast, where I would have ackee and saltfish with coffee from the Blue Mountains’

The food and flavours were so enticing - I tried every type of jerk on offer at roadside jerk grills. My favourite food of the day was breakfast, where I would have ackee and saltfish with coffee from the Blue Mountains. The culture is very strong in Jamaica and it felt great to be amongst Jamaicans because they know their history and are very proud and aware of their African roots. I had a vague idea that Jamaicans were more Afrocentric than any other Caribbean island, but knowing something and then experiencing it are two entirely different things! –

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‘I captured the stunning views at Grand Etang, hiked at the Waterfalls of Concord and Seven Sisters, lounged on beautiful beaches like Grand Anse and BBC Beach and I pretty much dived all over the island’

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‘I have fond memories of the elderly women who reminded me of the warm and welcoming elders I knew growing up in Africa’ I couldn’t stop smiling during my first visit because everywhere I went I was called everything from Empress to princess to African Queen. I felt proud to be Ethiopian when I saw my country’s flag – the red, green gold with the Lion of Judah – flying across different places in Jamaica. However when I told locals I was from Ethiopia in Africa, I was met incredulous stares. At first I thought they believed I was being philosophical, but after an encounter with a vendor I realised that the truth was that he felt that my looks and features weren’t African enough for what had been perceived. At first I felt it was negative and ignorant of him, but this is a part of why I am thankful to travel. Because I get to see the vast types of people in the world, but the vendor can only use what is directly in front of him to shape his views. So through my travels I have learned to be more patient and explain to others that Africa is a very diverse place. I share information and teach about my culture and continent along the way and I think that’s part of my purpose.

I ended up in Grenada after I had spent about a month in Jamaica and felt the need to go somewhere different and experience new things. It was time for the next leg of my journey and I researched between Grenada and Dominica. I stayed at Grenada Gold Apartments and it couldn’t have been a better choice for me as a long term traveller. The owner, Lucille Sylvester, was super helpful and I later found out she was a thirty something entrepreneur, just like me, but married with kids and a very lucrative businesses. Grenada was great for sightseeing and adventure. I captured the stunning views at Grand Etang, hiked at the Waterfalls of Concord and Seven Sisters, lounged on beautiful beaches like Grand Anse and BBC Beach and I pretty much dived all over the island. In general there was more of a reserved attitude from people but also a distinctly Grenadian culture and cuisine. I have fond memories of the elderly women who reminded me of the warm and welcoming elders I knew growing up in Africa. They were hospitable and loved sharing their culture and history. All over the island the one thing I noticed was an immense sense of patriotism. I was there on their Independence Day in February of 2010 – by total chance – and I’ve never seen such a vibrant celebration. But then that was topped when I got caught up in ‘Ole mas’, also known as ‘Jab Jab’ on Carriacou, which is a part of Grenada’s triisland state. On the morning of Carnival called ‘J’ouvert’, revellers cover themselves in black oil or colourful paint and parade through the streets in comical costumes. It’s a long-standing tradition and so different from the other Carnivals in the Caribbean that I’ve experienced. The most interesting was the Shakespeare Mas day where the participants recite Shakespeare verses and then strike the one who misses a verse.

I thought it was great that they kept the tradition going and it was something that I didn’t expect to find on a Caribbean island.

While in Grenada, a friend of mine invited me to join her and her husband and friends in the British Virgin Islands (BVI) for New Year’s Eve. Tortola felt a lot more touristy than any of the other islands I’ve visited. Transportation and food were super expensive but I found enjoyment in sailing around rather than staying at a hotel. Having spent a good amount of time in Jamaica, I sensed more of a Jamaican presence in the BVI – quite a few Jamaicans live in Tortola for better pay and stable job opportunities in the hotel business. The most interesting place I visited was the Bomba Shack bar in Tortola. It’s perched over the water and usually hosts unforgettable full moon parties. –

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‘I got caught up in ‘Ole mas’, also known as ‘Jab Jab’ on Carriacou. On the morning of Carnival called ‘J’ouvert’, revellers cover themselves in black oil or colourful paint and parade through the streets in comical costumes. It’s so different from the other Carnivals in the Caribbean that I’ve experienced.’

I was told that those who drink there lose their mind and leave underwear behind.

I left with everything in tact but a lot of people seem to lose their minds judging by the amount pinned on the outside of the shack!

During my time island hopping I was selected for the “Road Warrior Program” – which is the first program of its kind between the Belize Tourism Board and the Matador Travel Network, which is an online travel magazine and blog. The program invites a travel writer and/or photographer to blog their way around Belize for three months. I took the photography course last year and was the first photographer to join the Road Warrior program. I lived, blogged and photographed away during my summer in Belize getting stuck into outdoor activities, attending cultural events, trying different foods and immersing myself in their diverse culture.

Most people don’t realize there is a Caribbean culture in Belize let alone a Latin and African culture. It’s actually one of the most diverse countries I’ve visited, with about seven different ethnic groups, each with its own language, foods and history. Belize is a country - not an island -and it’s also the only country in Central America with English as its national language. I learned so much about Belize in a short space of time because I visited at the time of their independence and the mourning of their first Prime Minister who led them to independence from Britain in 1981. He passed away a couple of days before the 30th anniversary and it opened a window on the real Belize that most visitors never get to see.

Belize’s asset is its people. There are several ethnic groups who all live together in harmony. The Maya are believed to be the first inhabitants, dating back thousands of years. Mestizos are a mix of Mayan and Spanish and the largest group in Belize. Kriol people are mixed Africans, brought to Belize to work in the mahogany camps by the British who enslaved them. The Mennonites who look and live like the Amish play a major role in farming in Belize – they are mostly responsible for the availability of fruits, poultry and dairy in the country. Then there are East Indian inhabitants, who emigrated from neighbouring countries like Lebanon and China decades ago. Garinagu people, who are of African descent mixed with Carib, have an interesting history. They were never enslaved because the ship carrying them from West Africa was shipwrecked near St. Vincent. –

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‘Women in Belize are very hard-working and have children very young, but they still take care of themselves and love fashion’

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Those Africans who survived escaped and settled in St. Vincent where they mixed with Carib Indians. Eventually the British came and exiled them to Roatan, an island off the coast of Honduras. From there, the Garifuna migrated to mainland Honduras, and then settled in several Central American countries, including the southern Caribbean coast of Belize. The first Garifuna is believed to have arrived in Belize on November 19th, 1802. November 19th is celebrated as a national holiday in Belize, being recognized as Garifuna Settlement Day. The great thing about their historical celebrations is that each group gets to celebrate their history and traditions and others join in. Cultural pride runs high within each ethnic group and they are all proud to be considered Belizean.

The Caribbean is extremely diverse and Belize is a country that represents that.

Most Belizeans speak to each other in Kriol, which is very similar to Jamaican patois and there are also Rastafarians of Garifuna origins. When I joined in with their Carnival celebrations I could have easily been in Grenada or any other Englishspeaking Caribbean island. You can head north and get the Latin vibe or go south for more Caribbean and African flavour. Being there for such a long time meant I got a chance to fully infiltrate their communities and understand the lifestyle. The women are very hard-working and have children very young, but they still take care of themselves and love fashion. People in the US are busy every day of the week, in Belize everything was closed on Sunday and it was a day reserved for family, church and chicken stew with rice and beans. –

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‘Belize’s asset is its people. Cultural pride runs high within each ethnic group and they are all proud to be considered Belizean’ On the country’s offshore islands such as Caye Cauker or Ambergris Caye, golf carts were the main mode of transport to the point where residents complain if they see too many cars on the road. It was very easy for me to fit in and adapt to the way of life because of my African heritage and experiences on other Caribbean islands. Most people actually thought I was Belizean and would offer me local discounts or not charge me at all which was a nice feeling. As I moved around the island and made friends I enjoyed a pleasurable social life of barbeques, parties and events. Belize is a small place so it didn’t take long for everyone to know I was a visitor. As soon as they knew, I was welcomed with open arms into their culture.

In Belize I felt like I was fulfilling my destiny. It is amazing how much can change in just three years when you take charge of your life. I’ve never felt happier and more proud of myself than when I climbed to the top of a Maya site. There are 101 reasons why I would recommend travelling to the Caribbean. But to name a few: the people, the food, the gorgeous landscape, the activities and mostly the laid-back vibe. There are very few places in the world where you can truly let go of everything and relax. I haven’t completely left the corporate world - I work as a consultant a few months out of the year - but it’s much better than it used to be, because while I work, I remember that sunrise at Caracol and it keeps a smile in my soul.

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‘On the countries offshore islands such as Caye Cauker or Ambergris Caye, golf carts were the main mode of transport’

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‘I haven’t completely left the corporate world, but it’s much better than it used to be, because while I work, I remember that sunrise at Caracol and it keeps a smile in my soul’

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For daily updates visit www.complexd.co.uk/blog/

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