In the 1960s, the 1970s, black models shined, and very, very few shined as lustrously as Jany Remponeau Tomba, who became one of the USA’s very first black supermodels. Her modeling career spanned three decades, with her face appearing on the cover of American Girl, Woman’s Day, Mademoiselle, Essence, not to mention groundbreaking ads for Coke, Maxi, Johnson and Johnson products, Clairol, and other famous brands. Tomba’s journey as a model started with her arrival as a young immigrant in New York in the mid-1960s.

A stunningly beautiful girl, she had a dimpled smile, shapely legs, high cheek bones, and a remarkable face that could have given any onlooker the impression that she she had had angels in her parental lineage. Not too long after Tomba’s arrival in the United States, she caught the eye of a photographer who asked permission to take her photo. Tomba refused outright.

Her next encounter with the fashion world would occur not long after—this time she was approached by a woman who told the young Tomba that she was from the publishing conglomerate Conde Nast. The woman was at the time the beauty editor at Glamour magazine, and Tomba, blessed with good sense accepted her invitation into the upscale offices of magazine. From there, Tomba was groomed; sent to a beauty shop for a hair makeover, and assigned to a fashion photographer, and thus begun her ascent in the world of high fashion. The little girl from Port-au-Prince, who had originally had her mind set on a medical career, signed to Ford, one of Fashion Land’s most prestigious modeling agencies then and now. She was in high demand everywhere, strutted her stuff at casting auditions, dimpled for photographers, and landed in the pages of the fashion world’s most popular magazines, including Time.

She shared her reminisces about her modeling career and her life after.

(Right): Tomba as a little girl in Haiti, posing for her first communion photo

Q&A

What kind of childhood did you have?
I was born in Haiti of a family where my father was an artist. We lived in Port-au-Prince in a neighborhood which then seemed country. At that time there might have been no more than ten houses around. Today, it is sadly an overbuilt and crowded commercial strip. When on a recent visit I drove by the old house among the small houses squeezing her in, she stood freshly painted, behind tall brick walls. I was happy to see the trees were still there and almost could feel the spirit of my grandmother who lived with us. I had a wonderful childhood filled with joy, artistic activities and mango trees. I love to climb the trees where I found my solitude. I was the fourth child of a family of 6. My mother helped my father run his studio where I was fortunate to meet many prominent artists. I enjoyed the gallery openings, the production of carnival floats, and Christmas time was also a time of involvement as all the kids hand painted Christmas cards. During the summer my Father took us fishing. Although my family was Catholic we and extended members also visited yearly the wonderful waterfall of Saut d’Eau. It was a day of joy and the spiritual element was palpable even though I did not understand any of it then. I went to Catholic school which I did not like because the nuns were oppressive. Later on I went to a boy girl school where I blossomed as an adolescent. In 1965, my family left the native land and settled in New York City.

Why did they choose the USA as opposed to France, since France was usually the destination of the professional class?
Usually in migration patterns people follow the earlier migrants. People go where there is connection and opportunities. In my case my Father had moved to New York in 1964 so the rest of the family joined him. My Father had traveled a lot. Before that, he had studied at Hampton Institute in the South and he had worked in Ghana and had been to New York where he had family and friends. Although he had been to France, we did not have family there. Many families had moved to many places at that time. I would say my parents chose to leave. I was not asked where I wanted to go. We packed and left. The situation in Haiti at that time was very oppressive and not conducive to the growth of young individuals.

As one of the first black supermodels of the world, what obstacles did you find yourself facing?
It was 1969. The Black Power movement had just settled and the African-American consumers were being courted. There was a need to satisfy the Black consumer. However it was not an easy transition. To see a Black girl next to the White girls was to be a challenge. It was okay to show a Black model but often she would not be photographed single. It was rare to have a cover. It was customary to photograph a Black girl with a Blonde and a Brunette. Some photographers then told me they had a difficult time to light the three together so I was perfect with my tan look not too dark not too light. Plus I had the bright energetic smile that made people feel comfortable or should I say not feel threatened? It was not long after the Civil Right movement.

You’ve discussed modeling in the 1960s, but what did it feel like to be a new immigrant in the mid-1960s…the transition from Haiti to New York?
As difficult as it was to leave my homeland I welcomed the new adventure. I did miss my grandmother and my friends, but I loved being in New York. It was a very cold day in March. It had been snowing and the ground was covered. Everything was new. I was so young and as long as I had my family I felt secure. We lived in upper Manhattan in a very nice building and I loved the elevator! I was fascinated by the constant lights in the city. I remember thinking there are no trees, the streets seemed so sterile! I missed the crawling lizards. The transition was pretty smooth and in the summer I discovered Central Park, Coney Island and the Museums and Greenwich Village, where an abundance of art made up for my green land.

Collage via: Divalocity

A lot of wisdom comes with time. What do you wish you had known when you first started out as a model?
What I wish I had known then as young starting model? I am glad I had not known so much that I do today. My path was guided by intuition and a result of my upbringing. I was confident without arrogance, and had I known what I know today I mean my political placement in that industry I would have been hindered because the fashion industry likes the girls to be young of mind and body. I did not analyze the why and the how of modeling; it just happened to me as if I had been chosen. The only effort on my part was to show up on time ready and respectful. I think my natural comfort with myself helped sell my image.

What were some of the best moments of your modeling career?
I learned very early on to enjoy all my assignments. The best moment was, when I went on a go-see at Mademoiselle Magazine and in the waiting room were several other young Black models; an editor came out and loudly announced to me that I was their January 1970 cover girl. Another great moment was when I got a call for a national commercial for Coca-Cola and I had gone the week before to an audition for another product which I did not land but the same director chose me for the “Have a Coke and a smile commercial” [campaign], which ran during superbowl. There were many good moments like going on trips to the Caribbean in the middle of the winter. Working with the great Irving Penn or landing an Essence spread with the famous photographer Francesco Scavullo. Most of those moments had to do with prestige, landing a good campaign because after all it is a very competitive business. It is a business that can build your self-esteem or take it away over night!

What do you feel is the biggest misconception about models?
Modeling has a lot to do with identity and I was lucky to have kept my roots. Unlike the information in the media where girls are shown behind the scene hanging out together this profession can be very isolating. Girls stick together excluding others ; models come from different social backgrounds, many from small towns, so at times clans are formed: the models and the photographers gathered at night. The only things we had in common were the clients and the desire to reach the top.

So many models from the 1970s and 1980s ended up getting wasted and getting burnt at an early age.
I don’t know that many models in the 1970s-1980s got burned or wasted. Of course people rejoice in the fall of perfection. I am not saying that models are perfect, but during the day we sell the image of perfection and some might have partied too much and got burned. It was a time past the Woodstock era and the time of free sexuality, the pre-AIDS era and it was the disco time. People partied like in many other industries, the difference was that at a models’ party, a club would be filled with beautiful people and the promoters excluded others waiting behind the velvet rope! Having a strong self-esteem, clear eyes, a healthy skin and showing up on time was what helped to maintain and lengthen one’s career.

For each model, there is an ending point. What was your life like after modeling?
My career lasted from 1969 till 1998 when I landed my last cover for an Essence publication with my then teen daughter. While I was modeling I continued to show up for casting calls and I busied myself doing small parts and extra work in movies around New York City. I was always busy.

What are you up to these days?
In 1988—still at the top of my career—I started to attend art school in NYC, the Sculpture Center and also to paint. So while modeling I was doing art and exhibiting my work. My identity was shifting from Cover girl to Artist. I remember when I first showed my sculpture at the gallery my family attended and I felt I had come full circle reminiscing on my Father’s gallery openings back in Haiti. So it was not an abrupt cut off of my activities. A few years later I stopped modeling, went back to school and graduated at Hunter College where I became a special correspondent for The Word their online newspaper. I took classes at CUNY Grad Center, where I researched early Haitian Kreyòl linguistic and published a paper in the Linguistic American Society.

My heart has always been with my roots. I recently returned from a trip to my native land and this visit reinforces my love for Haiti. Today I am busy being a caring mother and daughter my dad is now 95 years old and my daughter and her husband gifted the family with two children. I continue doing my artwork, I think of ways I can involve myself in the reconstruction of the image of Haiti, pride of Haiti is in the main focus of my thoughts. I attend lectures and cultural events related to Haiti around New York City and network and have fun. My life is where it should be with much more to come.

You’re involved in activities involving Haiti. Have you done anything in particular to keep your culture vibrant in your children?
My Father Geo Remponeau is a legendary Haitian artist, so it was quite easy for me to keep my daughter in an environment that recalls Haiti. My parents spoke Kreyòl in the home and Haitian music was often part of the background in our home. We went to visit Haitian friends we stayed close to my parents and siblings. I took my child when she was quite young to visit Haiti. I have only one daughter and I made sure she ate Haitian food, learned Kreyòl and participated in family gathering so that she would be aware of her roots. When she married I gave her the present of a root dance performance by the fabulous Haitian dancer Mikerline, her dancers and her drummers. Today to my daughter’s three year old child I teach words of Kreyòl, and when we part, he says: “Mwen renmen-w”!

Jany Tomba today, posing with her niece Sasha Huber. Photo: Kirsi Mckenzie

What would you say has been your greatest regret?
I have learned to live and accept my life as my destiny had it written. I continue to show up and do the right thing: love of my brothers and sisters. Compassion is the key to happiness. I have no regrets.

Main Photo: Rolf Bruderer

Garcelle Beauvais is the pride of the Haitian community, not because she’s an actress in Hollywood who happens to be Haitian, but because she’s a staple in Hollywood, who is perceived as clinging to Haitian values, even though she’s lived in Hollywood land for most of her life—but with her chin up in the air. The St. Marc native didn’t have it easy from the beginning. Her father Axel and her mother Marie-Claire divorced when she was a little girl. Not too long after, Marie-Claire moved to the United States—Massachusetts specifically—and one by one, she brought her kids with her (Garcelle has five brothers and two sisters).

Around the time she was 16, Garcelle’s family moved to Miami (her parents had reconciled, only to break up for good again). But with Garcelle’s gorgeous features and leggy figure, New York came calling on a gramophone, and she headed there and signed with Ford, one of the biggest modeling agencies in the world. She even got a few roles in movies (she’s one of the rose bearers in the classic comedy film Coming to America), and TV shows, and actually played a model on a short-lived television show about models, before striking gold as a star cast member on “The Jamie Foxx Show”. From then on, TV producers seem to always have her in mind, as she took on lead strong women roles in the early 2000’s detective show “NYPD Blue”, followed by “Eyes” and more recently “Franklin & Bash”. Currently, she has a role on “Psych”, and is pretty much one of the few television actresses who still remain relevant on TV today as when they first started. Many people don’t realize that at one point Garcelle was even a video girl! She played the leading lady in at least two music videos, “Down Low”, “Come with Me”, “Take me Home” with the singer R. Kelly, rapper-mogul Diddy and crooner Luther Vandross—in that order.

The movie arena was not to be neglected and it never was. Watch for her in theaters in November alongside Denzel Washington and Don Cheadle in the thriller Flight. She and fellow actor, and one-time costar Jamie Foxx, will be reuniting for White House Down, an action-thriller, currently in pre-production. The two actors are going to be lighting up the screen with their much-vaunted chemistry! Joel Surnow directed her in a movie called Small Time, set to be released next year.

But more than an actress, and career woman, Garcelle is a mom—mother to Oliver Saunders, her son from her first marriage to Daniel Sanders and her twins Jax Joseph Nilon and Jaid Thomas Nilon from her defunct marriage to Christopher Nilon. And don’t forget about business woman. Ms. Beauvais launched a children’s jewelry line Petit Bijou years ago, and is swiftly moving into the publishing arena. She is the author soon-to-be published books in a series of three: the first I am Mixed, inspired by the biracial heritage of her two youngest. The second book will be a children’s book about co-parenting after divorce; the subject of the third has not yet been released to the press.

Throughout her life, Garcelle has emphasized the resilience of her nurse mom—whose death in 2008 at age 80—left Garcelle understandably devastated. Her father died in 1990, seeing only a glimpse of his daughter’s success (he had actually been opposed the idea of her going to New York to launch her modeling career).

So on a Friday, when the folks on the East Coast are well into their day, Garcelle has just dropped off her twin boys at school. She’s having coffee at her home in California, during what she calls some “alone me time”. She sounds like a perky receptionist throughout our phone conversation, as she talks about her sons, Haiti, Haitian men, her career and the dating scene–and Eyes to See, the most personal movie project she’s done so far.

Q & A

K. St. Fort: Of course, I’d like to start off and discuss this movie. It’s now on DVD. It’s called Eyes to See. This is basically the first Haiti-themed movie you’ve done. How did you get approached about playing this role of Marie in this movie?
My manager got a call from the production company, and she read it, and she called me and said, “I think this is something you’re going to want to do.” By the time I finished reading it, I was like, “You’re absolutely right.” I just loved the story. I thought, “You know what? We should keep Haiti at the forefront of everybody’s mind.” I loved the relationship between Marie and the other characters. I thought it was really profound. I wanted to do something that represented what was going on at the time.

K. St. Fort: This movie was partly filmed in Haiti, correct?
The exteriors and some of the other shots were shot in Haiti. The others were shot in L.A.

K. St. Fort: Your mother’s name was Marie-Claire.
Yeah! In reading this script, there were so many things that I connected with. The name of the character was very, very surreal to me. Obviously I connected with the Haitian part, being Haitian and having a Haitian background. The name of the character. Great timing. Great script. And when I met with the director David [de Vos], I felt that he was someone who was passionate and compassionate for Haiti and he represented it the right way.

K. St. Fort: Speaking of representation, the character Ray in the movie is a camera man, who had to go from behind the scenes. At one point, he has to decide between capturing—getting a good story—and saving a life. In terms of how Haiti has been portrayed in the media, what are your thoughts?
I think we’re still a work in progress. I think things have changed so much from my teenage years, from when I started modeling. Whenever you said, “I’m Haitian”, people immediately thought of AIDS, poverty. I think we’ve come a long way in the sense that people don’t think of us like that anymore. We’re thought of being intelligent, proud and honest people. I think there’s a whole lot more to be accomplished.

K. St. Fort: After Eyes to See, are you going to become involved in other Haitian-themed projects?
If it’s presented to me, yeah, I’m definitely open. Absolutely. If it’s a good script. I think Eyes to See was—at the time of the earthquake—such a passionate story. I felt that it was going to be done well, and like I said, I wanted to tell people to people not forget about Haiti—with the other disasters going on. It was a way of doing something that would last, and hopefully tell people not to forget.

K. St. Fort: When you play a character on TV, do you sometimes feel some kind of obligation to have your character be Haitian?
No. I mean I don’t have a say in that. It’s whoever writes the script. I feel for me, as a Haitian actress, I’ve always been careful about the roles I play. I try to pick roles that are not demeaning. I try to pick roles that are non-degrading. Roles that are not gonna set us back. Not only am I Haitian, but I’m a mom. I don’t feel that I should do anything that will take us step backwards. All the characters that I’ve played have been honest—not necessarily good people—but positive roles.

K. St. Fort: I’m wondering if you feel any type of pressure as being “The Haitian Actress”. I remember this girl saying that you were hosting some Haitian event some years ago, and some in the crowd asked you to speak a little Creole and you refused. She kinda took offense. Do you ever feel like—
I speak Creole all the time. Anywhere, I’m at. At an event. At Haitian gatherings. I don’t believe that story to be true. People are always surprised that I speak Creole. But I’m always like, why would I not speak Creole. I am Haitian.

No, no. The thing that I wanted to bring out from that—sometimes people see you. They expect so much from you. Do you ever feel like you have to be everything to everyone? Haitians expect so much from you.
I think I expect so much more of myself. I can be pretty tough on myself. It’s part of the job. I think when people see you, they expect you to look like you’re happy all the time. We’re just like everybody else. There are good days, and there are bad days. Frustrations. I always put my best foot forward, especially if I’m representing a brand, or something at an event. I’m one of the people who talk everybody, sign autographs, and will take as many pictures. My fans make me what I am. If you’re ever anywhere I’m at, you’re like, “How do you do it?” That’s part of the job. I feel that if If I’m not gracious, take pictures, not signing autographs, then I’m not doing my part. If I’m at an event, I know what people expect. Some actresses will stay behind the ropes, and not want to take pictures, not talk to anybody. I’m usually that person who goes way beyond the fact of what I’m supposed to be there and used for; and I feel like, this is who I am.

K. St. Fort: You’re the most well-known Haitian actress in Hollywood. At one point, you weren’t the only one, and actually there were some that started before you—that no one knew were Haitian. But you’ve always been—in your interviews, bio and everything—-you’ve always been forefront about being Haitian. What is the difference between you and these other ladies?
I can’t speak for them. But for me, I was always taught to be proud. I never shy from that. I don’t understand why you wouldn’t be proud of where you’re from. For me, there was never a shame. There was never a, “Oh my God. I can’t say that I’m from Haiti.” It’s like I’m proud that I am from Haiti. Everything about me—good and bad—made me who I am. No regrets. No shame. It’s part of my makeup. And I’m proud of it. If you come to my house, as soon as you walk in the door, I have a Haitian vodun flag, a vodun king, kids wearing uniforms in Haiti.

K. St. Fort: Back when you started, there was this negative stigma with being Haitian. How did you navigate through that?
You know what? It was never in my home. My mom toujou di, “Fò’w fyè”. You should be proud. I think you get that stuff if you’re taught that stuff. It wasn’t in our home. I never thought of it. It never crossed my mind. We were always proud. Haitian dishes. Matter of fact, I had some friends over the other day, and I told them, “The next time you come, I’m cooking a Haitian dish.” I never took it upon myself—that negativity—was part of who I am.

K. St. Fort: Some people are wondering…would Garcelle date a Haitian man?
Um. [Tremendous laughter] I am open to dating a good man, so whatever forms he comes in, then great. I would have to date a Haitian man who’s more Americanized. A traditional Haitian man would probably not go for the way my life is…in terms of what I do. I’m only speaking of that in terms of my sisters’ husbands. I’m open to all nationalities. It would actually be fun to date somebody Haitian. We can speak in Creole. He’d understand my background and culture. Yeah, I’m totally open.

K. St. Fort: You never had a Haitian boyfriend or anything like that?
I did, I did; I did. Back in the days when I was younger, I did.

K. St. Fort: You said you had a Haitian boyfriend before. Was it something about them that turned you off to marriage?
No, no. I never dated—I was so young then. It wasn’t about getting married. We were just dating. I haven’t yet met a Haitian man who’s asked asked me out. [Laughter]

K. St. Fort: Say for example, say a Haitian man who wants to romance Garcelle…
Have fun, I think. [Long stream of laughter]. Great dinners and nights, you know. Someone who’s honest and fun. Who loves God too.

K. St. Fort: Can it be anybody, career-wise? Like a carpenter? A blue-collar worker?
Yeah. [Laughs] Well, yeah. I’m not, you know, he has to have six figures; you have to have to have this and that. I’m looking for somebody who’s fun, loving, honest. It doesn’t matter what he does.

K. St. Fort: God, I hope this doesn’t come out wrong. Has the fact that you’ve dated two men who were outside your culture and “race”, made you more open to dating a black man?
I’ve always been open to dating black men. Oliver’s dad is black. I’m not opposed to it. It’s that the right people have to approach me. I love who loves me; I love who comes to me. I’m accessible to everybody. I’m receptive to everybody. I can’t just go out and look for only one type of man. Life is tough enough. I love who loves me; who approaches me.

K. St. Fort: Right now, there’s this big tourism movement. And your family being from St. Marc—are you involved in anything at the moment that would bring that city to the forefront?
Not at the moment. My sisters and I are trying to come up with something that we can do. We’re in the process of figuring this out now.

K. St. Fort: Do you ever think about moving to Haiti someday, starting a business there, staying there on a permanent basis?
I can’t move to Haiti because of my kids, because of my divorce. They have to be close to their dad. That’s not even—I can’t entertain that. Plus my career is in the United States. Maybe someday. Maybe I’ll start an organization. But my life is here. My kids are here.

K. St. Fort: Now in terms of your kids….do you teach them Creole?
They know some. Oliver knows some. Jaid is much more interested in learning. Jaxson has no interest. He only wants to play. They know certain words. Sometimes, they’ll do something; I’ll get frustrated. I start speaking Creole. I’ll crack them up, and they’ll know what I mean.

K. St. Fort: Have you ever taken your kids to Haiti?
No, no, no, not yet. When the earthquake happened, the boys were too young. The next time I come, Oliver’s definitely coming with me.

K. St. Fort: Do you have a good relationship with Oliver.
We have a great relationship. He’s a young man who’s trying to find his way. He tells me everything, to a fault. [Laughs]

K. St. Fort: If you could give advice to all the girls out there about love, relationships, and marriage, what would you say?
First of all, I would say, be true to you. I don’t think you should have to give up part of you just to be with somebody else. I think it’s important if you can start with self-love. Loving yourself, you will not allow other people to hurt you unnecessarily. Love yourself. Have boundaries for yourself [so] that you won’t let anybody hurt you. I think that it’s also finding a good person, who has the same morals, the same goals with you. Relationships are tough no matter what. If you have somebody who has a lot in common with you, that’s half the battle. Obviously, I don’t know. I have two divorces. I’m not an expert. I think self-love is where you can start off with.

K. St. Fort: You and your mom were so close. She raised you and your siblings by herself. What are some of the things you learned from her about life, love, and marriage.
I definitely learned strength from her. Being a strong Haitian woman. Having integrity. My mom was working—she was trying to take care of us. And I just feel like I didn’t see a working relationship between a man and a woman. So that’s what I aspire to do with my kids.

Are you saying that you and your mom didn’t get along?
No, no, no. I loved my mom. We got along great. I’m saying in terms, of seeing her as a role model with a man in a healthy relationship.

K. St. Fort: You think that’s had an effect on you and your own relationships?
I think everything a parent does affects us. It’s the way we do things. We’re all on our journey. I try to figure it all out. Doing a lot of self-work. Figuring out myself so that I can have a wonderful, healthy relationship with a man. That’s what I’m saying.

K. St. Fort: How did it feel to be reuniting with your old co-star Jamie Foxx.
Yeah, it’s going to be fun. I was just in Montreal. We had a photo shoot. We had to do photos—all the stuff for the set. He’s playing the president and I’m the First Lady. He was great. He’s like a brother to me. Being on the set with him was like old times. It’s like time never passed. I love that man.

Garcelle and her mom Marie-Claire Beauvais at a charity event in 2003 in New Century, CA. Credit: Bauer Griffin

Photos: Getty Images

The performer known as Black Alex died on Friday, November 13 in Port-au-Prince, ending a career that started in the mid-1990s–Kreyolicious has learned. According to Haiti Press Network, the performer was born Jamecy Black Alex on October 16, 1976 and passed away at a hospital in Haiti’s capital. He was member of a band called King Posse and later branched out on his own as a solo artist, and in the past few years had done features on songs of various artists.

Almost immediately after his death at age 39 was announced, fans took to social media to express their appreciation for the artist’s work, while his contemporaries gushed about his musical talent and legacy.

Media personality Carel Pedre posted a collage of photos of Black Alex, chronicling a visit on his show “Chokarella”.

The band Carimi posted a photo of the performer on their Instagram, and gave their condolences.

Hip-hop legend Wyclef, a long-time supporter of the artist according to reports, expressed his sympathies.

Black Alex’s death also hit hip-hop activist and motivational speaker/author MECCA aka GRIMO, who posted this on his Instagram page:

According to media reports, the Black Alex is survived by a daughter.

Kreyolicious wishes to send out condolences to the performer’s family and friends.

Saint Firmin Monestime was born in Cap Haitien, Haiti and went on to become Canada’s first black mayor in 1963, following a distinguished career as a doctor in Haiti and in the city of Mattawa, Canada. After serving two terms in that office, Monestime died in 1977, survived by his wife Zena and their four children, and another set of kids from a previous marriage to Nelly Bonhomme.

Vala Monestime Belter, his daughter, had a chat with Kreyolicious.com regarding her late father.

How do you remember your father?

I remember a man who laughed, was generous, kind, loved learning and worked long hours. He loved to danced. He loved his family. Thirty five years after his death, people still talk about him and remember him as their doctor, their mayor and their friend. They say good things. I realize how blessed I am to be his daughter. Not everyone gets affirmative “hugs” about their dad throughout their life.

What do you think his legacy is?

He left behind a nursing home for the frail and elderly which has also been the economic powerhouse for our small community. He gave this town pride in that a white Canadian community elected a black mayor in the days that their southern neighbor was still persecuting their fellow man, just because he was black!

Did he ever return to Haiti?

He had purchased a plane ticket to return to Haiti just before his son died—February 19, 1976. He never returned.

What are some of the memories he shared with you about Haiti?

He said it was the most beautiful country on earth. He played the songs of Guy Durosier…En Haiti, ahhhh comme il fait doux…[In Haiti, how sweet it is] wow, I love those words.

You can order Where Rivers Meet, the biography of Saint Firmin Monestime by Doug Mackey by clicking here!

Cassandre Brissot is the newly-crowned Miss Black America USA New York! The Brooklyn-born, Brooklyn College-graduate first heard about the pageant while working at Purdy Girl in the plush West Village. A customer who walked into the store turned out to be none other than Selena Watkins, the then-reigning Miss Black New York USA. Brissot was the store’s leading stylist and was charged with putting together outfits for Watkins’ participation at the next edition of the pageant. The two begun talking and Watkins suggested that Brissot apply for to participate the following year.

And the rest, is…well, a chronicle in beauty pageant history.

Kreyolicious: It takes a lot of courage and initiative, not to mention determination to enter a pageant. Throughout it all, who were your biggest motivators?

My biggest motivator—always—is God. This title is different from other systems because it is not solely a beauty competition at its forefront it is a system about service, built on faith.Knowing that inspired me even more to be part of this legacy of strong, beautiful, young, resilient, women who put The Lord first.

Kreyolicious: What were you like in high school?

High school was not my favorite moment in life, but it definitely helped mold me. I graduated high school in three years and took a lot of honors and advance placement classes but socially I encountered much adversity. I wasn’t the “loner” or the “geek” or any of the usual subjects of ridicule. To the contrary, I dated one of the most popular boy-athletes in school. However, in spite of or because of [that]—I was met with harassment and intimidation on a daily basis. However, I made it through safely, but I’m glad it’s over.

Kreyolicious: What are some of the things you learned while there that have really helped you as an adult?

I learned a few really important lessons in high school—the first being it’s okay to be your own person and not follow the crowd. However, the most important lesson I learned was a lesson in dealing with adversity. As cliché as this may sound, whatever doesn’t kill you makes you stronger. High school was a trying time for me and I didn’t see how I would survive it unscathed, but I’m stronger for it.

Kreyolicious: A writer—Helen Keller—was once asked if she could just have one of the five senses and only one for the rest of her life, which would she choose. She chose hearing. How about you?

Ughhh. I really hate this question, but I would chose sight. Every sunrise brings the hope of a new day and I would need that to make it through.

Kreyolicious: What does beauty mean to you personally?

Today’s society has jaded our view of beauty, it took a certain spiritual maturity that came with internal struggle to understand beauty. To say we don’t care about outward appearance would be false however it’s about being comfortable with the way you look the way you are. I strongly believe you won’t be able to do so until you learn to love who you are. When you love yourself, you walk with confidence and beauty can’t help but to be used to describe you.

Kreyolicious: Been to Haiti lately?

I actually have yet to travel to Haiti. My mom has only been back twice since immigrating to The United States and my siblings and I were not able to accompany her. I do plan on visiting soon though.

Kreyolicious: How do you stay in shape?

With my crazy schedule, my workout routine—which used to consist of 2.5 hrs a day 5 days a week in the gym doing cardio and strength-training—has severely suffered. I’ve just recommitted to staying healthy and have found a gym near me offering cross fit. I’m super-excited about being a beast in the gym again.

Kreyolicious: What’s the next avenue you’re planning to cross?

As of right now I’m not sure what’s next but I do have big dreams and I’m just as excited as you to see what’s next for me. I guess we’ll just have to wait and see.

[All photos provided by subject; Miss Black America USA New York pageant event pics: Marcus Bennett]

Kiana Rouchon, the reigning Miss Black Florida US Ambassador is always on the move. Literally. When she’s not visiting elementary schools to inspire little ones, she’s present at youth empowering events, eager to lend her voice and use her platform to inspire and encourage.

Even before she earned the tiara that sits firmly on her head at every event she attends, she was a busy woman. Currently pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in psychology at Florida International University, with the goal of becoming a licensed professional counselor, Kiana is what a professional psychologist would call a staunch survivor. If you’ll read on, you’ll see what I mean.

As you get to know Kiana through her interview responses, you find out that she’s an avid reader, and a searching soul who knows very well that she does not live on bread alone, or in her case—on quinoa alone. She’s proof that dark days don’t have to be followed by even darker days. You only need to believe, and work hard—work very hard, and then enjoy the fruits of your perseverance.

Kreyolicious: Tell us about yourself. 

I am a 20 year-old, young Haitian female who wants to impact the world! I’m a youth advocate, writer, vegetarian, go-getter and in love with Jesus. The quickest way to my heart is a burrito bowl from Chipotle—just kidding—maybe. My only goal is to make Christ known and glorify him in all that I do.

Kreyolicious: How did you learn about the pageant?

I learned about the Miss Black US Ambassador Scholarship Pageant in 2013 while I was mentoring under an organization named Strong Women, Strong Girls. My co-mentor messaged me on Facebook with the website link included. At first I was a bit hesitant because I never competed in a pageant and was not into pageantry at all! But once I read the mission statement, I was sold. This system was built to be more than a pageant. They were giving young Black women an opportunity to change their communities and at that point, I knew I couldn’t pass on it.

Kreyolicious: Did you have some jitters about entering?

Not at all. I applied in one day and left the rest up to God. If He wanted me to be crowned, it would happen… and it did! It’s been an interesting and amazing journey ever since.

Kreyolicious: What went through your mind as you were being crowned?

“Thank you, Lord!” is what I said on August 21, 2013 and still continue to say. It is only the beginning of His great plan for my life!

Miss Black US Ambassador Kiana Rouchon being presented a certificate for her participation at an elementary school’s Career Day festivities. Photo: Creative Image Photo

Kreyolicious: What’s the most exciting thing that’s happened to you since your crowning?

I would say actually competing in the pageant competition was one of the most exciting weeks in my life. I met so many positive, like-minded women and created the sisterhood of a lifetime. I also conquered a major fear in that one week: stage fright. Years ago, I would tremble while holding a mic or even walking on stage! At the pageant, I had confidence like never before. It was my first time modeling and performing a poem in front of a large crowd and I did it with a huge smile on my face.

Kreyolicious: You know before interviewing you, I decided to look up the meaning of your name. One source states that its origin is Hawaiian for “moon goddess”. Another source says that it means “living with grace.” Did you know this?

I actually did! I was so happy to find that out. Grace is a beautiful attribute.

Kreyolicious: Do you feel pressure to live up to those meanings over the course of your life/from now on?

I don’t know if I would consider myself a “moon goddess”. [Laughter] But, I strive to be graceful daily—in speech and deed. To me, living with grace is an extension of the grace that God gives us every day. A graceful life is honorable!

The reigning Miss Black Florida US Ambassador at an event in Miami. Photo Credit: Creative Fame Photo

Kreyolicious: Lot of us look back to our high school years, and think back to something our parents said that, I don’t know, seemed to make no sense at the time, but now makes plenty of sense. What was it for you?

“Mind your own business.” [Laughter] I say that because I was a big eavesdropper as a kid. Now that I am older and wiser, it easier for me to read between the lines and decode things, which can be a blessing and a curse. The difference is that now I don’t have to eavesdrop to know too much!

Kreyolicious: Speaking of your parents, how do they feel about your being a beauty queen?

My parents are so supportive. They both grew up without much support from their families in their career/academic endeavors and as a result had to change paths. My parents want the best for my brother and I so any opportunity that will help my us to thrive professionally and academically, my mother and father are there to help navigate us. They are my biggest cheerleaders.

Kreyolicious: How do you stay connected to Haitian culture?

Living in South Florida makes that very easy for me. I am connected to many Haitian professionals in my community so I am constantly updated on what is taking place within entertainment and politics. On a deeper level, I just listen to my elders’ stories! Their tales of trial and triumph as well as their yummy home-cooked meals makes me feel proud to be Haitian.

Kreyolicious: Everyone who’s successful has had to overcome an obstacle—if not obstacles. Was that the case with you? .

I know I have a purpose in life because I was a delayed pregnancy. I was born a month late. [I got] robbed at gunpoint and went through depression, suicidal thoughts and self-harm as a pre-teen. I shouldn’t be alive, but I am still here—thanks to God! I was depressed as a result of rejection and feelings of inadequacy as a child. In middle school, some boys would make fun of me because of my dark skin and it bothered me. In 2008, I almost lost my little brother to a strange illness and nearly flunked my freshman year of high school because I was distraught from that experience. That planted seeds of bitterness, anger, strife and rebellion in my heart. I was quite the agnostic growing up, but all I remember is telling God at 15 years old: “If you exist, if you are really out there… please save me from this hole that I am in.” Fast forward a couple of years, I was president of the first graduating class at Alonzo and Tracy Mourning Senior High. Go Sharks! I’m a mentor to 100 little girls, a Miami Dade College Honors grad, Miss Black Florida US Ambassador 2014 and still be a big sister to a 16 year old brother who is alive and well! If I could sum it all up in a quote: “before a breakthrough, some things must be broken!” I had to be broken to be made new.

There she is…Miss Black Florida US Ambassador…

Kreyolicious: This is something I ask of practically every beauty queen that I interview…What is your personal definition of beauty?

True, genuine beauty shines from the inside out. Our physical features only enhance our beauty and can be used to express it respectfully. A beautiful woman is gentle, quiet, fearless, selfless, cheerful regardless of circumstances, encouraging and virtuous. Make-up, nice clothes and great hair is okay, but it cannot cover up the ugliest personality. Think about it: if we took pictures of our souls, minds, attitudes…would we still be beautiful?

Kreyolicious: Now…that’s a great question for all of us to think about…Natural hair and processed hair…what’s your take?

I don’t have a preference, to be honest! I believe that decision depends on the woman. Natural hair is not “better” than extensions or relaxed hair and vice versa. I think people tend to look down on people and judge them based on their hair—or appearance, period—which isn’t fair. I am very happy that black women are embracing their natural roots, though! It is a wonderful thing to walk into a room full of naturalistas.

Kreyolicious: Let’s play a little game, okay? We’re going to imagine that you have your own advice column and I’m going to play your secretary. I love my job because I get to read all the emails coming in and sorting through them. We’re going to pretend that this is one of the emails coming in for the “Ask Kiana” column, okay?

Let’s do it!

Kreyolicious: Okay, awesome. Here goes. Ahem. “Dear Kiana: I am in my senior year in high school. I’m not sure what to do. I love to write, but I’m not sure this will get me anywhere. On the other hand, I know nursing is one of the happening fields out there right now. Should I apply, and then once I make enough money in that field to support myself, I can try to go for a writing career. I don’t want to struggle. ‘What do you think, Kiana?’ Sincerely Yours, The Nursing Scribe.” ‘What’s your advice to this loyal reader?

Dear Nursing Scribe…Writing is a beautiful gift and not many people have it. Take advantage of your craft and start now! Pursuing higher education and a career in Nursing is a great aspiration and I encourage you to achieve your academic goals. In the meantime, find opportunities for your to exercise your love for writing; does your college of choice have a newspaper or writing club? Are there any spoken word events or poetry contests being held in your city? Do you journal often? Is there a topic that you are passionate about that could be written about in a book, magazine or blog? In this day and age, the opportunities are endless. You never know where your writing can take you! You might even find that you didn’t need extra money to get there; all you need is motivation, consistency, patience and passion. Yours Truly, Kiana. [Smiles]

Kreyolicious: Wow, Kiana, as your humble secretary, I have to say that this is some seriously fab advice…What measures do you take to stay fit and looking your best?

My vegetarian diet certainly helps a lot! I stopped eating meat right after my 19th birthday weekend and never went back. Being Haitian, it seems impossible to live on a plant-based diet, but I beat the odds! Eating in portions and drinking in between bites keeps me from overeating—not that I do…but sometimes the food is just too good! [Laughter]. Cardio exercise—spinning, running, etc—helped shed a lot of pounds before the pageant competition and drinking green tea also burns a lot of fat, not to mention it keeps my skin clear.

Kreyolicious: Girl, do you visit Haiti often?

You know, I have not been to Haiti once in my life! Isn’t that unfortunate? I have large families on Mom and Dad’s side who live in Haiti and would love to visit them in the near future.

Kreyolicious: Do you chill to some Haitian music sometimes?

Only when my mom listens to it! I love Nickenson Prudhomme and K’Dans though…music that gets you up and dancing the night away!

Kreyolicious: Have you ever read a book that changed your life…just made you think differently?

Two years ago, I read a book called Not A Fan by Kyle Idleman. It changed the way I walked and talked! I had just gotten serious about my faith and Kyle breaks down the difference between religion and a real relationship with Jesus Christ. That matters because we live in a world that brands Christians as overly pious, intolerant hypocrites. Jesus says that the world will know his people by their love and prioritizing “religious ways” over-renewed minds can prevent us from that. Christians aren’t responsible for what people think, but we have a bigger responsibility—to walk in love and truth as bold, faithful representatives of Christ here on earth.

Giving some inspiration and encouragement to some youngins. Photo Credit: Creative Fame Photography.

Kreyolicious: What songs do you listen to…when you’re looking for a track to motivate you…you know that song that you feel personifies who you are as a person. 

I am a huge fan of Lecrae. An old song of his, “Background,” is my life story right now. Because I am naturally ambitious, there are times when I try to control and organize every part of my life. I am learning to let go and let God take center stage in my life while I stand in the background, trusting Him to work out everything for my good.

Kreyolicious: What’s next for you, missy?

I have a heart for this generation and youth in general. I do hope to counsel children and teens at my own mental health practice one day, but I am not going to sit around waiting for that day to come! I do the best I can to inspire young people as a blogger for Her Path to Success, Inc., an ambassador of change and a woman of God. I believe that every day is an opportunity to make a positive impact, whether it’s in one person’s life or a thousand lives. Whatever is next for me, I’ll use it to do that and more!

Pageant Photo Credit: Creative Fame Photography; others provided by subject.

Connect With KIANA ON TWITTER | FACEBOOK | INSTAGRAM | CLICK HERE TO VISIT HER BLOG TO READ HER INSPIRATIONAL POSTS AND WRITINGS | VISIT THE BLACK MISS FLORIDA US AMBASSADOR WEBSITE

In which I discuss a fashion trend…or admire the outfit of a Haitian celebrity.

Kreyolicious fashion…in which…

Actress Garcelle Beauvais attended a cocktail party over the weekend in honor of diversity at this year’s 67th Emmy Awards. The party was being thrown by the Academy of Television Arts & Sciences and SAG-AFTRA and was held at Montage in Beverly Hills, California.

Let’s take a look at Garcelle’s outfit. Of course, she’s looking really kreyolicious!

What I can deduce from studying her outfit is that when you’re putting together yellow and black, you really have to resign yourself to the fact that the yellow will always outshine the black. So, let yellow shine!

Yellow introduces itself on top…see those earrings…

Then it’s the black bodysuit…

And then it’s the yellow, sweeping skirt. So, that’s how you combine yellow and black when putting together an outfit.

This has been another episode of…Kreyolicious fashion.

Photo Credit: Alberto Rodriguez

Actress, film director and festival queen Fabienne Colas tries to take vacations once in a while. She really does. But she never can never seem to make a go of it. She tells the story of one of the last vacations she planned on the island of St. Martin. Third day into her vacation, the actress-producer-festival founder had become bored and restless. She even started to plan film screenings, and booking interviews. And the most shameless thing of all: she organized two packed screenings of Minuit, a film she had directed. Her fiancée, who had accompanied her on the trip, was not amused. He had come to St. Martin to have fun, and here was his future wife acting as if they had never left their home in Montreal.

These days when she leaves for vacations, she leaves DVD screening copies of her films at home. This way, she won’t be a vacation party pooper.

Fabienne Colas on the Red Carpet.

Kreyolicious: How are you doing today?

I feel fantastic and ready to go! I completed the 8th annual Festival Haiti en Folie in Montréal, and it was a complete success with over 100 artists and tens of thousands of festival-goers attending. I couldn’t ask for more. [And then I had to get] ready for the 10th Annual Montreal International Black Film Festival [which took place] from September 23 to 28.

Kreyolicious: When you initially envisioned the film festival, did you think it would take off the way it has?

I never thought the Montreal International Black Film Festival—MIBFF—would go on to becoming the Canada’s biggest black film festival! Thanks to the artists, our team, our volunteers, our partners, the press and the audience! I just had a dream and a passion and I’m more than grateful everyone followed me in that crazy amazing adventure.

Fabienne Colas (far left) poses with legendary actor Harry Belafonte and another guest.

Kreyolicious: What are some moments that you cherish and will continue cherish about the Montreal International Black Film Festival?

Definitely several of them. I will never forget the very first edition, when we were called back then: the Montreal Haitian Film Festival. That was when everything started and it encouraged me to move forward. But I will forever remember the moment I welcomed legendary Harry Belafonte who was the very first to receive the MIBFF Humanitarian Award. That was a historical moment for me, for the festival, for our team and for Montreal.

Kreyolicious: As someone who has held the fort on a festival of this magnitude…five festivals actually…what advice would you give to an individual wanting to launch one?

You need a clear vision and a strong reason why you want to create a new festival and that reason cannot be “because you want to make money”! You gotta be prepared to work very hard and you need to have a tough skin, because some people will try to discourage you and you will get lots of no’s at first. And you need a great team that also believes and understand what you’re trying to create! My foundation created and organizes 5 festivals a year in Montreal, Toronto and Port-au-Prince, and they are not for profit: The Montreal International Black Film Festival—MIBFF—the Toronto Black Film Festival—TBFF—Festival Haiti en Folie in Montreal, Festival Fade to Black, Quebec Film Festival in Haiti. We can do them because we are on a mission of spreading and sharing black realities through the most amazing films, concerts, discussions, conferences, plays; and Haitian culture through the best Haiti has to offer culturally. Furthermore, the Fabienne Colas Foundation is dedicated to supporting education in the arts. This, for me, is the biggest reward ever. There is no secret recipe to the success of a festival, but one thing is sure: your festival needs to fill a gap, fulfill a need, and be different from what already exist or way much better than the competition.

Kreyolicious: It’s a lot for one person, You’re also an actress, director and producer. Where do you find time to do all that?

Great time management! But above all, I have a great team and amazing partners I can rely on for help, guidance and advice!

[All images furnished by subject, except photo with Spike Lee…via festival media]

FOLLOW FABIENNE COLAS ON TWITTER | VISIT THE FABIENNE COLAS FOUNDATION WEBSITE