One Love had the pleasure of catching up with these extraordinary go-getters, in which they dished on their inspirations, the challenges they often face and what the future looks like for their twin-island republic in their respective industries. (Photography, design, film, modeling and athletics!) Let the list of the Fab 7 begin! :) |
Permission for use of photos appropriately obtained
1. Theon Graham - Faces of Tobago
Theon Graham is one of the many young and extremely instinctive creative minds based in Trinidad and Tobago, who happens to run his own photography business that truly celebrates the people of Tobago and who they are.
From casual shootings and cultural events to weddings and personal portraits, Theon Graham Photography is there.
Theon also happens to be the face behind Faces of Tobago, a series that is "dedicated to capturing the natural, raw culture of Tobagonians as individuals."
From casual shootings and cultural events to weddings and personal portraits, Theon Graham Photography is there.
Theon also happens to be the face behind Faces of Tobago, a series that is "dedicated to capturing the natural, raw culture of Tobagonians as individuals."
OL: How did you get started with the FACES OF TOBAGO series?
TG: Well, I used to follow this page on [Facebook] called Humans Of New York and I always found it so interesting. Seeing as I had the opportunity and time to do it in Tobago, I was like "Why not? We're definitely a 'colourful' society"
OL: Any difficulties in approaching complete strangers?
TG: I think everyone has a story, a joke, a message or experience that everyone can learn from and relate to. I'm a very open and friendly person so walking up to random people and talking isn't hard for me. I mean I get all kinds of reactions (good and bad). But hey, it's all part of it.
OL: Who was the one person of Faces of Tobago that has left the greatest impression/impact on you?
TG: It has to be the interview I did with a young man who was molested by a group of thirsty women. I didn't post the story though (by their request). It was a great reality check to know that these things do happen and not just to women only... but men and children also.
TG: Well, I used to follow this page on [Facebook] called Humans Of New York and I always found it so interesting. Seeing as I had the opportunity and time to do it in Tobago, I was like "Why not? We're definitely a 'colourful' society"
OL: Any difficulties in approaching complete strangers?
TG: I think everyone has a story, a joke, a message or experience that everyone can learn from and relate to. I'm a very open and friendly person so walking up to random people and talking isn't hard for me. I mean I get all kinds of reactions (good and bad). But hey, it's all part of it.
OL: Who was the one person of Faces of Tobago that has left the greatest impression/impact on you?
TG: It has to be the interview I did with a young man who was molested by a group of thirsty women. I didn't post the story though (by their request). It was a great reality check to know that these things do happen and not just to women only... but men and children also.
On this series, Theon went on to say, "I find it enriching to my soul personally... and the fact that other people can get to know their own people and culture better, is just awesome man!"
2. Naomi Ng See Quan - KUAN Advertising
Naomi Ng See Quan is the 20 year old pushing the creative media brand that is KUAN Advertising. When asked about her passion and how it all started, Ms. Ng See Quan simply declares, "It's in my blood!"
"I create. I see things differently and have found a way to show others what I see and the way I see it."
OL: When did you notice your creativity?
If my memory serves me correct, from primary school to secondary school, I failed miserably at most subjects, Math and Accounting, especially! I wasn't too worried though.
I knew I was meant to excel in something far different. My mother put me into a visual communications course in UTT straight out of high school and for the first time in my school life, I found myself, with others, at the top of my class and passing almost any task that was thrown my way.
I knew it was where I belonged from the start.
I am blessed to have my passion be my career.
OL: How has the development from hobby to business, at such a young age, been?
Initially, owning my own business was the last thing I would ever think about doing so I sought out working under an advertising company to get the "feel" of what goes on in the work world. I worked with 3 different businesses from which I gained a lot of experience as a young designer,
both good and bad - which is GOOD!
For a young person in this industry, let me warn you, IT'S BRUTAL! If a client doesn't like your work they will tell you and you have to be a "big boy/girl" about it. You may also get cheated or taken advantage of due to lack of work experience and having that youthful innocence about you.
So its always good to have your supporter at the ready to have your back. Mine was my mom.
OL: What's it like being your own boss?
NQ:
Being my own boss is great. People that are close to me sometimes think I work too much, or push myself too hard. But I think I am where I am now because of it. It's also pretty cool when I want to take nap, go for ice-cream, sing to the top of my lungs, pig out, or do anything really - I CAN!
If my memory serves me correct, from primary school to secondary school, I failed miserably at most subjects, Math and Accounting, especially! I wasn't too worried though.
I knew I was meant to excel in something far different. My mother put me into a visual communications course in UTT straight out of high school and for the first time in my school life, I found myself, with others, at the top of my class and passing almost any task that was thrown my way.
I knew it was where I belonged from the start.
I am blessed to have my passion be my career.
OL: How has the development from hobby to business, at such a young age, been?
Initially, owning my own business was the last thing I would ever think about doing so I sought out working under an advertising company to get the "feel" of what goes on in the work world. I worked with 3 different businesses from which I gained a lot of experience as a young designer,
both good and bad - which is GOOD!
For a young person in this industry, let me warn you, IT'S BRUTAL! If a client doesn't like your work they will tell you and you have to be a "big boy/girl" about it. You may also get cheated or taken advantage of due to lack of work experience and having that youthful innocence about you.
So its always good to have your supporter at the ready to have your back. Mine was my mom.
OL: What's it like being your own boss?
NQ:
Being my own boss is great. People that are close to me sometimes think I work too much, or push myself too hard. But I think I am where I am now because of it. It's also pretty cool when I want to take nap, go for ice-cream, sing to the top of my lungs, pig out, or do anything really - I CAN!
OL: What is it like juggling the roles of mother and businesswoman?
NQ:
It took me a couple hits here and there before I decided I HAD to be my own boss and do things on my own. I took a major risk and left my current job, invested in a small home studio and computer and started marketing myself like crazy. The decision was especially scary as I am a young mother that has to provide for a little one. Having bills to pay with no guaranteed income at the end of every month is very scary yes, but it is for that same reason I push myself to work hard everyday.
NQ:
It took me a couple hits here and there before I decided I HAD to be my own boss and do things on my own. I took a major risk and left my current job, invested in a small home studio and computer and started marketing myself like crazy. The decision was especially scary as I am a young mother that has to provide for a little one. Having bills to pay with no guaranteed income at the end of every month is very scary yes, but it is for that same reason I push myself to work hard everyday.
It's pretty easy [though]. Once you're doing something you love, it won't feel like a task right?
YES, a baby can be a handful at times and YES, it gets a bit overwhelming when clients need a job finished within the same hour my son needs his bath, but I love it and I love him!
Once I'm dealing with either of the two I'm happy.
YES, a baby can be a handful at times and YES, it gets a bit overwhelming when clients need a job finished within the same hour my son needs his bath, but I love it and I love him!
Once I'm dealing with either of the two I'm happy.
"I am blessed to have my passion be my career." - Naomi Ng See Quan
3. Wayne John
Wayne John, the talented and ambitious filmmaker from Tobago himself! His company, Youngest Veteran Film, is just one aspect that reflects his youthful yet extremely mature intuitiveness, so it's no wonder why! Wayne has been involved in countless creative projects related to media and film; having worked with Channel Five (Tobago's local TV Station) to writing and producing his own short films and the very latest, being part of the production team for the 2014 American TV ONE film, "Girlfriends Getaway," shot in Trinidad this year!
OL: What is the T&T Film Industry like right now, in your opinion?
WJ:
I think the film industry is on a good footing in T&T. The enthusiasm of filmmakers in the country is very
high, coupled with programs and offers from the T&T Film Company, are some of the reasons supporting this view.
OL: What do you think it would take for T&T to become a Caribbean film hub?
WJ:
T&T filmmakers are more interested in filming and producing short films. Though I think short films are
important and are valuable (if marketed differently) I believe feature length film projects is a step in the
right direction.
WJ:
I think the film industry is on a good footing in T&T. The enthusiasm of filmmakers in the country is very
high, coupled with programs and offers from the T&T Film Company, are some of the reasons supporting this view.
OL: What do you think it would take for T&T to become a Caribbean film hub?
WJ:
T&T filmmakers are more interested in filming and producing short films. Though I think short films are
important and are valuable (if marketed differently) I believe feature length film projects is a step in the
right direction.
OL: HOW WAS IT PRODUCING AND DISTRIBUTING "HIS STORY" VIRTUALLY ON YOUR OWN?
WJ:
Filming His Story was a fulfilling experience. I have learnt so much more about the village of Delaford doing
His Story than what I’ve gathered in the 20 odd years growing up there. Distribution of the film on DVD
has been slow but I will not give up because it’s a film, loaded with history and information people should know.
OL: WHAT WAS THE EXPERIENCE LIKE, BEING A PART OF "GIRLFRIENDS GETAWAY"?
WJ:
So imagine getting home at about just after midnight to get ready to catch your transport for about
4:30 am, in order to get to set for about 6am - most days for three weeks.
Minus the grueling hours, the experience was great. It was good watching the director communicating with his cast. The way each department communicated with each other. Learning the various protocols and ins and outs of the different positions of a film crew. And seeing a story moving from script to screen is always an amazing experience. Apart from Girlfriends Getaway, I was a part of a Trinidad-based film which was shot partly in Tobago, called Trafficked which is also a touching story.
OL: WHAT WOULD YOU LIKE TO BRING TO THE TABLE?
WJ:
I also describe film as ‘a powerful and unique way of conveying important messages’ and this is what I
want to do with the talent I was blessed with. I love story lines and characters with which the audience can relate in a real way. These are the types of film I will love to make.
WJ:
So imagine getting home at about just after midnight to get ready to catch your transport for about
4:30 am, in order to get to set for about 6am - most days for three weeks.
Minus the grueling hours, the experience was great. It was good watching the director communicating with his cast. The way each department communicated with each other. Learning the various protocols and ins and outs of the different positions of a film crew. And seeing a story moving from script to screen is always an amazing experience. Apart from Girlfriends Getaway, I was a part of a Trinidad-based film which was shot partly in Tobago, called Trafficked which is also a touching story.
OL: WHAT WOULD YOU LIKE TO BRING TO THE TABLE?
WJ:
I also describe film as ‘a powerful and unique way of conveying important messages’ and this is what I
want to do with the talent I was blessed with. I love story lines and characters with which the audience can relate in a real way. These are the types of film I will love to make.
4. Hannah Joanni
Hannah Joanni of Tobago is the next BIG thing in local fashion - so T&T models watch out! :) In this honest interview,
Hannah tells all: the strangeness of being considered a gorgeous fashion model and the reactions and opportunities she's been afforded since Tobago Fashion Weekend 2013.
Hannah tells all: the strangeness of being considered a gorgeous fashion model and the reactions and opportunities she's been afforded since Tobago Fashion Weekend 2013.
OJ: How did you get into the modeling world?
HJ:
I got into to modeling just because family and friends said I should. About a two and a half years ago, I heard about Tobago Fashion Weekend, and a lot of my friends and family members persuaded me to go to the casting, but at the time, I didn’t have that much self-confidence and I slouched a lot - I didn’t understand why people thought I should model. I guess that translated into the fact that I didn’t get in. The next year, castings came around again, and so did the persuasions to try out. During the year that had passed, I had gained a bit more confidence in myself and who I was, through certain events in my life. I also had a completely new look as I had chopped my own hair into a pixyesque do. At the audition a few people came up to me and said they loved my edgy look and that year, I got in.
Tobago Fashion Weekend opened all the doors for me; people kept coming up to me during it and saying they loved my “unique” look and that they wanted to work with me and during the weeks that followed I was swarmed with messages saying the same things. I still didn’t really understand any of it, all I did was put on some clothes and walk down a ramp - why did it bring about that reaction? In school, people would tell me how good I looked in pictures and on the runway - it was pretty odd for me.
HJ:
I got into to modeling just because family and friends said I should. About a two and a half years ago, I heard about Tobago Fashion Weekend, and a lot of my friends and family members persuaded me to go to the casting, but at the time, I didn’t have that much self-confidence and I slouched a lot - I didn’t understand why people thought I should model. I guess that translated into the fact that I didn’t get in. The next year, castings came around again, and so did the persuasions to try out. During the year that had passed, I had gained a bit more confidence in myself and who I was, through certain events in my life. I also had a completely new look as I had chopped my own hair into a pixyesque do. At the audition a few people came up to me and said they loved my edgy look and that year, I got in.
Tobago Fashion Weekend opened all the doors for me; people kept coming up to me during it and saying they loved my “unique” look and that they wanted to work with me and during the weeks that followed I was swarmed with messages saying the same things. I still didn’t really understand any of it, all I did was put on some clothes and walk down a ramp - why did it bring about that reaction? In school, people would tell me how good I looked in pictures and on the runway - it was pretty odd for me.
"People I know see me as a model, but I don’t really."
HJ:
Since TFW I’ve worked with a lot of different designers, photographers and stylists doing both runway and photoshoots. I still feel really nervous every single time and don’t quite believe all the compliments people give me. It’s also weird getting friend requests from really respected photographers and fashion people, even being asked to do this interview is strange!
OL: Where do you think you'd like to go with modeling in the future?
I’m not really sure where I’ll go with modelling, at the moment I don’t go to castings, I just model if I’m asked to and have the time. Earlier this year I was contacted by a huge agency in Brazil that represents amazing models, saying they were interested in me. However, once I sent in measurements and such, they never replied again. It just goes to show how fickle it all is. Kinda scary: one picture can change everything, but so can one number. I also just love so many other things like music, art and working with children that it’s hard to know what I want to do. People I know see me as a model, but I don’t really.
I’m just a regular girl - one that models.
Hannah's humility and playful innocence combined with her dry humour is what draws you in to want to get to know her, and once you see her in haute-couture style - you're sold.
Since TFW I’ve worked with a lot of different designers, photographers and stylists doing both runway and photoshoots. I still feel really nervous every single time and don’t quite believe all the compliments people give me. It’s also weird getting friend requests from really respected photographers and fashion people, even being asked to do this interview is strange!
OL: Where do you think you'd like to go with modeling in the future?
I’m not really sure where I’ll go with modelling, at the moment I don’t go to castings, I just model if I’m asked to and have the time. Earlier this year I was contacted by a huge agency in Brazil that represents amazing models, saying they were interested in me. However, once I sent in measurements and such, they never replied again. It just goes to show how fickle it all is. Kinda scary: one picture can change everything, but so can one number. I also just love so many other things like music, art and working with children that it’s hard to know what I want to do. People I know see me as a model, but I don’t really.
I’m just a regular girl - one that models.
Hannah's humility and playful innocence combined with her dry humour is what draws you in to want to get to know her, and once you see her in haute-couture style - you're sold.
5. KEISHAUN JULIEN
Keishaun Julien is one of few die-hard steelpan musicians in T&T, the home of the steeldrum.
Having just completed his A-Levels, he is already off to the University of the West Indies to further his musical studies, with a Certificate in Music. He also has a YouTube channel to support his craft, through which he showcases his truly unmatched skills with covers of popular Caribbean music. This channel is slowly gaining popularity and momentum, having been applauded by a variety of popular West Indians such as Kes the Band (Int'l T&T Band), LatoyaForever (Canadian YouTube sensation), and Precision Records (T&T Record Company). He has also played at the Tobago Jazz Experience 2014, whose stage also saw the likes of John Legend, Tessanne Chin, Brandy and Earth, Wind & Fire.
Having just completed his A-Levels, he is already off to the University of the West Indies to further his musical studies, with a Certificate in Music. He also has a YouTube channel to support his craft, through which he showcases his truly unmatched skills with covers of popular Caribbean music. This channel is slowly gaining popularity and momentum, having been applauded by a variety of popular West Indians such as Kes the Band (Int'l T&T Band), LatoyaForever (Canadian YouTube sensation), and Precision Records (T&T Record Company). He has also played at the Tobago Jazz Experience 2014, whose stage also saw the likes of John Legend, Tessanne Chin, Brandy and Earth, Wind & Fire.
"A career in the arts is risky; you make it or you don't."
KJ:
I was introduced to the steel pan at a very tender age of 6 taking summer classes at the Our Boys Steel Orchestra summer program. However, the classes were cut short due to unforeseen circumstances and while the others left without complaining, my dad demanded compensation which led to us receiving a fairly old pan as compensation and till this day, I still have that very pan!
Mentors and Inspirations
My talent was reignited when my dad forced me to rejoin the Our Boys Pan Steel Orchestra one Saturday morning and it was that very day I met Mr Leeandro Noray - my mentor. Leeandro took me under his arms and taught playing me certain techniques that I would forever possess. Apart from Leeandro, I was exposed to arrangers such as Roger Sardinah, Len “Boogise” Sharpe and Carlton Alexander and last but not least, Duvone Stewart - KJ's No. 1 inspiration:
"He always give me words of encouragement as an up and coming steelpan soloist from Tobago."
STEELPAN GOES FROM HOBBY TO CAREER FOR YOUNG Keishaun!
After these events, I started receiving calls for different gigs; These experiences helped me hone my skills in becoming a steel pan soloist and also boosted my confidence in terms of facing large crowds.
"Apart from YouTube and doing local performances, the National Instrument of Trinidad and Tobago has been taking me around the world since age 11; (United States, Canada, England, France and Beligum). With Our Boys Steel Orchestra we toured France and Belgium, performing at the UNESCO Headquarters in Paris, as well as various Belgian schools to expose the culture of Trinidad and Tobago to Europe.
I was introduced to the steel pan at a very tender age of 6 taking summer classes at the Our Boys Steel Orchestra summer program. However, the classes were cut short due to unforeseen circumstances and while the others left without complaining, my dad demanded compensation which led to us receiving a fairly old pan as compensation and till this day, I still have that very pan!
Mentors and Inspirations
My talent was reignited when my dad forced me to rejoin the Our Boys Pan Steel Orchestra one Saturday morning and it was that very day I met Mr Leeandro Noray - my mentor. Leeandro took me under his arms and taught playing me certain techniques that I would forever possess. Apart from Leeandro, I was exposed to arrangers such as Roger Sardinah, Len “Boogise” Sharpe and Carlton Alexander and last but not least, Duvone Stewart - KJ's No. 1 inspiration:
"He always give me words of encouragement as an up and coming steelpan soloist from Tobago."
STEELPAN GOES FROM HOBBY TO CAREER FOR YOUNG Keishaun!
After these events, I started receiving calls for different gigs; These experiences helped me hone my skills in becoming a steel pan soloist and also boosted my confidence in terms of facing large crowds.
"Apart from YouTube and doing local performances, the National Instrument of Trinidad and Tobago has been taking me around the world since age 11; (United States, Canada, England, France and Beligum). With Our Boys Steel Orchestra we toured France and Belgium, performing at the UNESCO Headquarters in Paris, as well as various Belgian schools to expose the culture of Trinidad and Tobago to Europe.
Challenges of being a Steel Pannist in Trinidad & Tobago
Keishaun also confessed some of his most challenging times as he tried to balance the demands of schoolwork and perfecting his craft, but also the disrespect from Trinbagonians.
Lack of local appreciation for the Steel Pan:
"As a traveling musician, I can only say that we don't appreciate our very own creation here in Trinidad and Tobago as much as it is being appreciated in the wider world. We need to show greater support and appreciation towards our own cultural art form. "
Being told, "That's not a career":
"One day, a lady asked me what I want to be in the future. I told her I want to be a professional steel pan entertainer. She looked at me and laughed, then said, you need to go and study law, or be a doctor. That was the moment I realized that a lot of persons that still don't believe in the art form; and it was also a wake up call for me telling me that I have a lot of persons to prove wrong."
PASSION:
"For me, I see the steel pan as my passion, my career and my business which I am the entrepreneur of. When one makes the decision to choose a career in the arts, it is a very risky choice. Its either you make it or you don’t! However, in order for you to survive, you must firstly love what you do and treat it as a business where you could capatilize on the investment made towards building your career.”
GOALS:
"One of my all time goals is to take the steel pan to almost every country in the the world (if not all) and spread the love and music of Trinidad and Tobago. I also want to launch my first album sometime soon, and eventually, I would love to perform at one of the main awards shows, like the Grammy's, accompanying a major artist in the music industry.
I know thats a big one, but I would love an opportunity."
"I always thank my mom and my dad for their continued support in every decision I make musically. They are my number one supporters."
Don't miss a beat with Keishaun: http://www.keishaunj.com
"For me, I see the steel pan as my passion, my career and my business which I am the entrepreneur of. When one makes the decision to choose a career in the arts, it is a very risky choice. Its either you make it or you don’t! However, in order for you to survive, you must firstly love what you do and treat it as a business where you could capatilize on the investment made towards building your career.”
GOALS:
"One of my all time goals is to take the steel pan to almost every country in the the world (if not all) and spread the love and music of Trinidad and Tobago. I also want to launch my first album sometime soon, and eventually, I would love to perform at one of the main awards shows, like the Grammy's, accompanying a major artist in the music industry.
I know thats a big one, but I would love an opportunity."
"I always thank my mom and my dad for their continued support in every decision I make musically. They are my number one supporters."
Don't miss a beat with Keishaun: http://www.keishaunj.com
YouTube: 300,000 views & 1900 subs! Check out his latest vid!
6. BRYAN JORDAN
Bryan Jordan, a high school graduate of the year 2014 , is part of the changing face of artistic expression in Tobago. His flawless and truly precise use of colour and strokes leave many speechless, considering his age and experience. His humility and gentle nature further complements his outstanding craft as his personality supports the traditional artistic persona.
OL: How did you get started expressing yourself artistically?
BJ:
I started as early as preschool.
It was my first love if you could classify it as such, but I didn't sek advice until I was in Standard 3, which is where I started my first art class in standard 3, shortly after my first ever painting done in standard 2. My passion for painting sparked from there.
OL: What inspires you?
BJ:
I was always exposed to seeing other artist's work and after that I aimed to master painting, which could never be mastered, as any other art media so I am still working on it, as any artist would for their entire life.
BJ:
I started as early as preschool.
It was my first love if you could classify it as such, but I didn't sek advice until I was in Standard 3, which is where I started my first art class in standard 3, shortly after my first ever painting done in standard 2. My passion for painting sparked from there.
OL: What inspires you?
BJ:
I was always exposed to seeing other artist's work and after that I aimed to master painting, which could never be mastered, as any other art media so I am still working on it, as any artist would for their entire life.
"Art is Life is Art" - Bryan Jordan
BJ: I [also] met a famous Tobagonian artist, Wilcox Morris. So from him, I learned all my theories of art. Then later, he became my stepdad - long story! Thanks to him, art became ubiquitous to me. I started mastering other dry media like pencil, graphite and charcoal.
OL: What do you hope to say through your art?
BJ:
Well I would like express nothing but life through my eyes in my work. We have experiences, and we all got a story. I express mine in art because it gives you infinite possibilities of doing it, even if it's just a line and a line that went for a walk...
I always say "ART IS LIFE IS ART" everything around me epitomizes art.
OL: What do you hope to say through your art?
BJ:
Well I would like express nothing but life through my eyes in my work. We have experiences, and we all got a story. I express mine in art because it gives you infinite possibilities of doing it, even if it's just a line and a line that went for a walk...
I always say "ART IS LIFE IS ART" everything around me epitomizes art.
7. BRADLEY THOMAS
Bradley Thomas - TOBAGO'S UP & COMING STAR SWIMMER!
Born of German and Tobagonian heritage, Bradley is the bago boy who is bringing the speed to Tobago's swimming
Born of German and Tobagonian heritage, Bradley is the bago boy who is bringing the speed to Tobago's swimming
OL: How did you get involved with swimming?
BT: Well I basically got into swimming obviously first to learn how to swim when I was about 6 years old but it became much more than just learning to swim after a while.
I loved the feel of water as I passed through It all the time and that's where my love for swimming ignited.
OL: Have you experienced any challenges in pursuing this in TOBAGO?
BT: The challenge I first encountered was a proper training facility. We always swam in hotel pools, switching constantly, sometimes not even having a pool to swim in for months. That was a large set back for me as I wanted to get better and pursue swimming as something more than recreation. Now with the YMCA pool, it has made training easier but then I faced another problem which was that I had peaked for the training I did here in Tobago: I wasn't getting any faster and the training wasn't doing much for me. I needed to get out of Tobago and that is what I did. So last January, I joined a club called Tidal Wave Aquatics in Trinidad and every weekend, we would fly down to Trinidad to train, which was tough on us but we knew it was for the best.
OL: How was it balancing school and swimming?
BT: As far as school goes, it was much tougher with swimming and traveling more frequently - I had to cut down on socializing and study more often. I would say though that swimming has made me become better academically as now I had to study more and be able to manage my time instead of having my phone infront of my face.
MEDALS AND FUTURE GOALS
I recently represented Trinidad and Tobago at the Goodwill Championships in Suriname where I gathered 10 medals (3 Gold, 3 silver and 1 bronze; as well as 3 gold medals for relays). I hope on making Carifta next year which is in Barbados as well as CCCAN which is in El Salvador and hopefully on a much larger scale, the Olympics.
BT: Well I basically got into swimming obviously first to learn how to swim when I was about 6 years old but it became much more than just learning to swim after a while.
I loved the feel of water as I passed through It all the time and that's where my love for swimming ignited.
OL: Have you experienced any challenges in pursuing this in TOBAGO?
BT: The challenge I first encountered was a proper training facility. We always swam in hotel pools, switching constantly, sometimes not even having a pool to swim in for months. That was a large set back for me as I wanted to get better and pursue swimming as something more than recreation. Now with the YMCA pool, it has made training easier but then I faced another problem which was that I had peaked for the training I did here in Tobago: I wasn't getting any faster and the training wasn't doing much for me. I needed to get out of Tobago and that is what I did. So last January, I joined a club called Tidal Wave Aquatics in Trinidad and every weekend, we would fly down to Trinidad to train, which was tough on us but we knew it was for the best.
OL: How was it balancing school and swimming?
BT: As far as school goes, it was much tougher with swimming and traveling more frequently - I had to cut down on socializing and study more often. I would say though that swimming has made me become better academically as now I had to study more and be able to manage my time instead of having my phone infront of my face.
MEDALS AND FUTURE GOALS
I recently represented Trinidad and Tobago at the Goodwill Championships in Suriname where I gathered 10 medals (3 Gold, 3 silver and 1 bronze; as well as 3 gold medals for relays). I hope on making Carifta next year which is in Barbados as well as CCCAN which is in El Salvador and hopefully on a much larger scale, the Olympics.