What are your earliest memories of Kingston?
My first visit was a decade ago to host a fashion show and I remember feeling very protected, the amazing food, kids playing soccer, beautiful women and that sweet "Jamaican" fragrance floating around.
What do you miss when you are not in Kingston?
The food, the music, the women's insane bodies, the camaraderie and the pride of the people.
What are your creature comforts?
My home, because it is my personal space that I painted, decorated and furnished. I wanted somewhere that my close friends and family can always enjoy the vibe. I enjoy my true friends being around, my two bulldogs (Moe and Shug), music (I love the blues and I also like some reggae), M&Ms, Red Vines, Ben & Jerry's, and my morning cup of coffee.
Who has been your inspiration?
Through life, I've been inspired by many people -- coaches, teachers, counsellors, Barack Obama, Malcolm X, Michael Jackson, Michael Jordan etc, but my rock, my hero and mentor would be my mom. She has always been such a strong woman, always taking risks and thinking outside the box. She lived in a very racist environment and wanted to fight for equality and inner-city black children, so she took a risk and went West during the middle of the Civil Rights movement and joined the fight. She has instilled pride, fire, ambition and the ability to make my own rules in life. I am inspired by anyone who is willing to take a stand for what they believe in.
Share with us the title of the last book you read?
The Audacity of Hope
-- Barack Obama.
What's your middle name?
Franklin.
And the last bit of music that stirred your soul?
I could literally listen to the blues all day, but I also love old-school music, rock and alternative. Most recently I've been enjoying Drake's album Thank Me Later and Eminem's Recovery.
What was your last bit of retail therapy?
I bought my dream car for my 40th birthday, an Audi R8.
Which cologne are you currently splashing?
John Varvatos Vintage.
What is your preferred beverage?
Baileys on the rocks or Grand Marnier on the rocks, lemonade & vodka when partying, and a strong cup of coffee in the morning.
What was your most memorable meal in Kingston?
At the time when I came to Kingston, I was still in The Young & The Restless and a huge fan of the show had a Jamaican barbecue in her backyard — I can't remember the names of the dishes, but everything was delicious.
What are your current projects?
Finishing the 6th season of Criminal Minds, however my ultimate goal is to catch the same bus that Denzel Washington, Brad Pitt and George Clooney are on and have a successful film career. I'm also working on my clothing line — Royalty Soul, which will offer clothing for women and men. It will be clothing that makes you feel sexy when you wear it.
What upsets you?
Lies, not keeping your word, bullies and ignorant racism.
Name the last three places you visited on holiday?
Brazil, Turkey and Rome.
Share some places in your black book?
Miami, Rio de Janeiro and Fenway Park ( I love to watch the Red Sox play).
What's your advice to a first-time visitor to Kingston?
Don't say B--------t! (long story), get someone to translate the slangs before you try them out on your own.
What makes you smile?
Overcoming fears.
What's your philosophy?
Live in the moment, take nothing for granted, don't take yourself too seriously, be ambitious, know that you can't do it alone, remember where you came from, know there is something bigger than you out there, tell the truth, do the work first and then the rest will follow.
