Jamaican | Austrian

Photo credit: Provided by subject

I identify as Jamaican & Austrian, bisexual and spiritual. My Mom was born in Canada, she is a first generation Canadian, my Grandmother is Austrian. My Father was born in Jamaica and came over to Canada as an adult. My Mother was working in a hospital and my Father had recently arrived to the city and was part of the custodial staff. 

Music was always playing in our household, morning to night. Reggae, jazz, folk, ska. My Mother learned from my Father to cook Jamaican food, my Mom would make English-Canadian food, always Sunday suppers (roast beef, ham, etc), and weekly dinners that had various cultural  influences. When my Dad cooked it was always Jamaican; stews, brown chicken, jerk chicken, oxtail, cocoa tea, ackee and saltfish. We never went out to eat, and eating together as a family was always a must. 

My partner is also mixed-race. We both have an understanding of one another and how our cultural influences enriched our experiences growing up and today. When I was younger I didn't identify with both sides of my heritage, it was not a signifier that I spoke about. Now, I really embrace my Black heritage, as it is a marginalized group and I take so much pride in it. In my art practice I explore leadership of Black women and I highlight the beautiful difference of being of colour and of mixed-race. 

Mix it up! Mixed babies are so so so beautiful! Integration of races will flatline racism and enlighten the human condition. My Grandparents have brought so much to my life and enriched a history, but to see the interconnectedness of many walks of lives plays such an important (positive) role in our global future. 

A positive for me is my uniqueness. Looking unique, having different perspectives. The challenges I have faced are based around embracing my Blackness. I have been criticized for not 'looking' Black enough (especially as a trained actor and auditioning for roles).

I have been to Jamaica. It’s such a vibrant and breath-taking country. I haven’t visited Austria, but I am looking forward to visiting.

I have embraced my identity more and more as the years go on. As a child I didn't think about my identity, it wasn't anything I discussed. Now, I take pride in it, in being different! 

As an artist I feel my workplace is open to diversity, I think so (and I would hope so). Artists play an important role in reflecting themselves and creating the path for inclusivity. Being an actor and a fibre artist it's important for my 'workplace' to be open and diverse. My practice is rug-tufting / drawing. Creativity helps to energize my chi, to organize my thoughts and to keep my mind busy. Speaking with friends and family always brings love and light into my day. 

If I had the opportunity to be reborn I would return as myself. I wouldn't change a thing.