1) Where did you grow up?
I grew up in Belize and the United States. I’m very fortunate to have experienced both cultures. Ultimately it made me super accepting to different people and gave me the ability to adapt in any environment.
2) What or who inspired you to follow your dreams?
Growing up there was literally no representation of me in the media. Because of that, I wanted to be the role model I never had. I worked hard to be where I am now and there is still so much more room for improvement. However, I am constantly reminded of where I come from and who is looking up to me, which is my biggest motivation. The young girls who are told they would never amount to anything, they inspire me. The youth who manage to smile at school while facing so many silent battles, they inspire me. They are the reason I can’t stop. When someone like me makes it, a whole school, village, country makes it. The fact that I can bring so many people up with me and motivate even more is enough to keep me going.
3) If you could go back in time.. what advice would you give to your younger self?
INVEST IN YOURSELF! I wish someone would have told me that. We know what we want to do, we just have to take the risk and do it. Investing doesn’t necessarily mean monetary investments. Take advantage of free programs being offered at school or in your communities. To learn a new skill or trade is an investment. Invest your time and volunteer and network.. All of these investments will set you up for success and give you an advantage.
4) Who were some of your role models or people that always believed in you? And what advice if any did they give to you or what did you learn from them?
I am fortunate to have a supportive family. I am a very creative individual and with that I gravitate to so many different projects. Some would say I need to stick to one thing but women are multifaceted and my family makes sure to remind me that I can do it all. They ultimately taught me to never give up and the importance of having a genuine support system.
5) What type of music do you listen to and how would you describe your taste in music?
I’m not picky when it comes to music. I literally have a playlist for everything. My music taste will definitely vary depending on the currentI mood I’m in. I’m typically in a calm mood so Jhene Aiko and Bob Marley is always a good idea.
6) What’s something that people would be shocked to find out about you?
I love to travel so many people find it hard to believe that I am afraid of planes and heights. Yes, it’s true. I am slowly working on that fear though.
7) Throughout your travels what are some of the most memorable places you’ve been to?
I was not expecting Ireland to be so amazing but boy, did it shock me. The environment and ambiance was breathtaking, not to mention everyone was so friendly and welcoming. I definitely want to go back with more people.
8) If I’m not mistaken your first book “so you need advice” was published in 2018? How does it feel to be an accomplished author at such a young age?
Sometimes, I don’t give myself enough credit. Publishing my first book at 21, is one of those instances that I often look back on when I’m having a not so good day. I had a successful book signing and so much support. I felt powerful, I felt inspired and most importantly happy. That accomplishment definitely keeps me motivated and reminds me that with hard work and manifestation, anything can happen.
9) At what age did you find your passion for poetry?
I’ve always loved writing. In Kindergarten I would make up stories all the time and overtime those stories became inspiration for my poetry. It has always been used as a positive outlet for me to express myself and my individuality.
10) How did you get involved with Belizean blues?
My family and I have a non profit organization that focuses on combating child hunger, equal education and sustainability. In efforts to raise awareness of these issues in Belize as well as raise funds I decided to get the community involved. I asked writers around Belize to contribute short poems or stories. The book is for Belize written by Belize. It ultimately amplified young creatives in my country as well as provided healthy meals to the children in rural areas. As the sales increase, the more we will be able to do within our communities.
11) As a proud belizean.. how did it make you feel to be a part of the miss Belize pageant?
It was an honor to represent my hometown of Punta Gorda and it would have been an honor to represent Belize. The experience is something I will never forget and I am sure I will be entering the pageant world again. It gives young women an opportunity to amplify their voice but most importantly encourage young women and children to be the best versions of themselves and to take up space. I gained so much exposure from the participation in Miss Universe Belize and I plan to continue to use my platform to promote change in my communities.
12) How do you deal with people that get it twisted when it comes to business..? In other words as a young woman how do you navigate through the negativity especially from men that assume just because you’re a woman they can take advantage of you?
It’s pretty easy to spot when someone wants to waste your time or has ill intentions. However, younger me used to feel bad about interrupting people when they got off topic or strayed away from business. Now I simply can not entertain that behavior. I am a boss and woman and I demand to be treated as such and sometimes that requires me to set the agenda and tone of the conversation. Misogyny has no role or influence in my life and will never be tolerated.
13) Do you have any advice or words of encouragement for all the young females that wish to follow in your footsteps?
Have fun in every single thing you do and don’t be afraid to go against the status quo! Everyone has their own path and journey so yours will differ from mine and everyone else’s but it’s important to never compare yourself to anyone. Just stay focused on your end goal.
14) What would you say to a young person (male or female) chasing their dreams but feels like the odds are stacked against them and they’re ready to give up because it seems like nothing is ever going to change?
You didn’t manage to come this far for nothing. We are all human, it’s natural to have those days but it’s important to remember that we have a bigger purpose. Continue to try your best. You have nothing to lose and everything to gain. With that being said, you can’t stop now. You’re almost there!
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