Standing at 5’6, Easher Parker has sparkling doe eyes, glistening white teeth that makes one think that she wouldn’t have to audition for a toothpaste commercial, lips that look like they’ve been dipped and moistened in strawberry juice, and a face that brightens like it’s lit by Utopian sunshine. But make no mistake, there’s more to Miss Turks and Caicos than beauty pageant grins. She’s not some simpleton whose only saving grace was being blessed with good looks.

The daughter of a Haitian mother and father, Parker outshone dozens of other girls for the prestigious title of Miss Turks and Caicos 2011 and went to represent the island in Brazil last summer. An avid reader, she enjoys juicy historical fiction in the vein of The Other Boleyn Girl, and has a love for the visual arts.

Like other forward-thinking beauties who’ve won pageants, she’s planning her next move, and judging from her determination, intelligence, and spunk, you had better believe that earning the title of Miss Turks and Caicos will not be the only highlight of her life.

Q&A

As a beauty queen, how would you define beauty?
Beauty to me is probably one of the most undefined words known to man. Everyone has their own perception of what it is. This can range from physical appearance to personality traits —but to those like me—beauty is when an individual can embrace who they really are, flaws and all while taking on the world with a positive, impacting and confident attitude.

Would you say you had a nice childhood?
I have nothing about my childhood to complain about; however, things were pretty hostile in my parents’ household at the time. I am glad I was spared the nightmare experiences and had a mom to take care of me, but that doesn’t change the fact that I faced neglect. The difference with me is that I accepted that it happened. I learned that it is I who determines my happiness and that no one can take that from me unless I allow it. My past has helped define who I am today. I don’t think I would be as passionate about the prevention and awareness against child abuse had I not gone through it in some shape, way or form.

What’s the best thing about being Haitian?
Everything. There is nothing I like more for the other. I must say however, the distinctive sarcasm and humor that Haitians have does come in handy when I want to cheer someone up!

You represented Miss Turks and Caicos as the Miss Universe pageant.
I had such a blast on my trip to Sao Paulo Brazil. I enjoyed getting to know the girls and found it so interesting that we all had a lot in common and could relate to each other judging by the fact that we all came from different cultures at every corner of the globe. I actually celebrated my 20th [birthday] while there. Had the biggest cake!

How did you get started in beauty pageants?
A friend of mine one summer when I was about fifteen years old entered a pageant and because we were the type to do everything together I entered too. The twist? She ended up not being able to continue her participation and I ended up being the only one out of the two of us to compete. I don’t even think I did well that year.

What advice do you have for the next young lady who will carry on the torch for next year?
Follow your heart in everything that you do. That’s something I tell every individual who has their eyes set on a goal. Remember to surround yourself with positive people who you know you wouldn’t mind becoming and yes, even if it’s a former beauty queen!

How has life changed for you since you’ve been elected Miss Turks and Caicos?
I’ve become a more tolerant, patient and humble individual. In the world of pageantry, you are sometimes faced with difficulties that can either make you or break you. Lucky for me, I’ve managed to break through each and every challenge!

You must have big plans for your future.
I wouldn’t call them big plans, but for the time being I want to continue to pursue a career in media and hopefully realize my long-term goal of launching a website highlighting the issues of child abuse in the Turks and Caicos, which will feature mini webisodes and interactive content.

Now you were born in Turks and Caicos, but your parents are from Haiti.
Yeah, they are; but they’ve known Turks and Caicos all their lives as well, literally. I think what kept the culture vibrant with them was the traveling back and forth to Haiti over the years and family ties of course.

What’s the first thing you plan to do when you make your first trip to Haiti?
Shop at a Ti mache! I love those; you find the coolest things when you keep a keen eye. I’m a vintage fashion junkie and Ti Mache always has something of my interest.

When did you first become aware of your Haitian identity?
I always knew! I grew up speaking Creole and under Haitian parenting. I played more with my Haitian relatives and initially befriended Haitians during my childhood. As far as my command of the language, I just decided to repeat French terminology the elders and country side people used to improve my Kreyòl.

How is Haitian identity in Turks and Caicos? How are Haitians perceived there?
Haitians here are distinguished as one of the working Diasporas. Although the locals are upset about some pressing issues surrounding Haitian immigrants, I have to give them their props for trying to make a way and wanting to work. No matter how annoying some Haitians get, they’re all a proud and working set.

You mentioned that you want to raise awareness about child abuse in Turks and Caicos. What would you say it’s like right now?
Child abuse is something that is swept under the rug, like many other issues in the Turks & Caicos. I’m no specialist, but I think one factor is due to the many different cultures that make up the overall sociology towards it. For example, Haitian parents typically use the belt. To them, it would sound ludicrous to hear that constantly using that method would have more [undesirable] effects other than making children behave. Turks Island parents have a tendency to be verbally harsh with their children. Most don’t want to hear that sometimes; they go overboard and end up verbally abusing a child. In most cases, parents don’t even realize that they do it.

Will you eventually set up a non-profit to help that cause, or are you planning on working with any organizations?
I have thought about it on a number of accounts but I’m the type of person that likes to get my ducks in a neat row before I take on a project. In the meantime I work with CAPAA TCI which stands for Child Abuse Prevention and Awareness Association. Hopefully, I can establish something for the youths of TCI in the near future.

Do you feel that people are intimidated by you?
Not to sound like someone with an inflated ego, but yes, I do think I am intimidating sometimes, but in a good way. I have had countless of individuals admit to being intimidated by me, most say it’s because I come across as serious and hard to approach. The humor in it all, is that I’m extremely bubbly and was clueless to this fact for a while.

What are you most grateful for?
Just for the fact that I am able to take another breath each day. To me, life itself is a blessing. If I wasn’t blessed with another day, another year all my life, it’s obvious I wouldn’t have all the opportunities and wonderful experiences that I’ve had.

Photos: Kazz Forbes

Haiti’s beauty queens have been many, Claudinette Fouchard, Gerthie David, Evelyne Miot, Marie-Edith Vaval, Sarodj Bertin and now Anedie Azael. Azael edged out several contestants to represent Haiti in Brazil last summer at the Miss Universe pageant, and life won’t stop there. Haiti Miss Universe has big plans for herself, thank you very much. Azael, who was born in Haiti and left the country in 2004 to further pursue her studies in South Florida, has been everywhere (or so it would seem) since her crowning.

The beauty pageant wasn’t her first foray into the fashion and beauty world. She was signed as a model to an agency in Miami and with her nearly 5’10 frame, she worked the runway and was featured in several print campaigns for different brands.

It’s been more than 5 decades since Fouchard was Miss Haiti, Miss Sugar Cane—among other pageant honors, and more opportunities have presented themselves for Haiti’s beauty queens. Anedie is mining them all, kicking all the tires. She’s undoubtedly grateful for all those who paved the way for her, but she’s blazing her own path. She’s her own woman.

Q&A
Tell us about Anedie, the real Anedie.
Well what can I say about the real me? I love to laugh, have a good time, and help others in need. I also recently developed a passion for cooking. I am all about doing things right with perfection. I am a great listener, a loyal friend. The rest of me stays as a mystery.

How have you been enjoying your journey as Miss Haiti thus far?
Being Miss Haiti has been a challenge as there is no real organization of “Miss Haiti” that supports and helps me. So I have been doing everything on my own. Besides that it has been great, as I’ve been able to speak to young girls to motivate them as well as develop their self-esteem. Also, I’ve had some doors open for me in Haiti to do some projects.

How did you first learn of the Miss Haiti pageant, and did you think you had a chance?
I learned about it from the previous Miss Haiti Universe. I always thought I had a chance because it has always been my passion to represent my country on every level, and staying positive and confident is the only way.

Do you have any advice for the person who’s going to be taking over your crown?
All I have to say is enjoy your year as a Queen to the fullest, especially the three weeks at Miss Universe competition as these memories will last a lifetime. Also have a passion in life besides the beauty world. Believe in a cause, in a change, advocate it and start the change.

And once you’ve turned your tiara over, what are your plans?
When I turn my crown to the next Miss Haiti, my plans continues with my non-profit organization Peace Love International and my campaign Ayiti N’Ap Mache. I plan on having a TV Show in Haiti about fashion and the beauty world and also I plan to have a boutique for men and women in Haiti. I also plan to continue with my modeling life as I stopped since Miss Haiti.

Who do you admire the most?
I really admire Mahatma Gandhi for his non-violence tactics to achieve freedom and independence in India, in hope that one day we will have world peace.

Given the proper clothes and suitable makeup, can a girl be made beautiful?
I believe that it is the inner beauty that always shines through. A girl is “beautiful” through her actions, personality, humility and poise. The clothes and make-up are just extras, for the outer beauty.

You’re heavily involved in the campaign to help restore Haiti’s place on the tourism map.
I think that Haiti, once known as the Pearl of the Antilles, needs to be marketed better. Haiti is one of the most beautiful countries in the world, and I’m not saying this because I am from here, but I’ve traveled to many places and never I can’t compare the beauty of Haiti to anywhere in the world. Therefore, one of my missions is to change the image of Haiti throughout the world and my strategy of doing so is to invite the most beautiful women of the world and the ambassadors of other countries to visit my home.

In February, I invited 6 Miss Universe candidates to Haiti during our carnival and in April, I invited another set of 3 beauty queens. It is a hard and difficult battle but very possible. Haiti is a virgin country with much history. Our beaches and mountains are magical. Very soon, I am launching a tourism agency called Perfection Tours where everyone can come and visit the beauty of Haiti.

Have you ever been betrayed by someone who you trusted?
Yes, I have. When I started high school I got betrayed by my best friends and until now I do not know why, but I do not regret anything as it made me the person I am today. It is difficult for me to have a “friend” or to let anyone in my life now. I am very cautious of who is in my surroundings.

You have a foundation.
Yes. My foundation is my heart. It is called Peace Love International and our mission is to empower people, to give them the resources and knowledge to do for themselves. Currently, I am supporting two orphanages and 17 children which accounts for 112 children in Haiti. I am launching a campaign called “Ayiti N’ap Mache” (Haiti we are Walking) which is about protecting yourself and your environment and everything that has to do with ecology; such as reforestation, recycling etc.

When you’re not performing activities related to Miss Haiti, what do you enjoy doing?
I enjoy watching movies, spending time with my other half, going to restaurants and my new hobby, as I mentioned earlier, cooking.

Do you have a close relationship with your family?
Yes, I do. I love my family. I am who I am because of them as they are my support system. But I have to say, my grandma holds a special place in my heart—whoever is reading this I am not playing favorites, haha. I owe everything I know in terms of fashion and beauty to my mother, my business mind to my father, my spirit to my grandma. My sisters are my best friends and I don’t know what I would do without them.

You recently worked with famed photographer Marc Baptiste on several shoots. How was that experience?
Wow. He is one of the best photographers I have ever worked with. He is just amazing. We shot for the December cover of Haiti’s fashion magazine Rebelle and also for my 2012 calendar and that was one of the best photography experiences in my life. A lot of the photos I was wearing no make-up and without bragging I never thought I would look so beautiful without make-up. He is just amazing with such great energy and inspirations and I am proud to say that he is Haitian.

Where can your calendar be purchased?
You can find my calendars in Haiti, at Caribbean Supermarket, Giant Supermarket and Big Star Market. Pretty soon, in about 2 months I will be giving the remaining calendars to fans and supporters.

Are you still a spokeswoman for the Rebo brand or have you gotten any endorsements as a result of being Miss Haiti?
No, I am not and until now I have not gotten any endorsement yet, but I am currently working very closely with Jedco Company as they care very much for the environment and the Haitian people as I do.

Do you find yourself wondering if some people might want to get close to you because of your fame?
Well it’s quite sad to say this, but, yes. It has happened already. In high school, I did not have that many friends and suddenly people that used to ignore me would come up to me and say hi, try to talk to me and become friends. I do not hold any grudges, so it’s all groovy!

Do you at times feel that you can’t be yourself, that you have an image to uphold at all times?
I do believe that there is a certain character that you must be in depending on your environment. But never have I been fake or not myself. Sometimes I do have to keep my back more straight then other times, haha, but that inner person is always Anedie. For example, I will act and look a certain way if I am in the same room as the President then I would in a room with a couple of my friends. When I say ‘act’, I do not mean that my personality changes, I just probably speak with a more sophisticated language. But never will I be in an environment where I can’t be myself, and if I do find myself in that position, I am sure that I will have the will to leave that place ASAP.

As someone in the public eye, how do you deal with gossip and rumors?
Honestly I do not like to gossip and create rumors so I stay away from that. If someone next to me starts to gossip and create rumors I move away or I just start thinking about other things and daze off.

It’s the year 2022, what do you imagine yourself doing?
Ten years from now, I will have a family, a husband and children, maybe two, have my tourism agency, my fashion store, and hopefully my non-profit will be bigger so that I can help more people. I will always be a voice for the Haitian people therefore in ten years I will still be advocating for a better country in hope that I start see and feel a change.

A beauty does not live on her looks alone, or so the adage goes. What are your educational plans?
I am done with college. I graduated from Florida International University in Miami, Florida. I studied Business Management with a minor in Liberal Studies. I never stop educating myself, as they say, “Knowledge is power” so I always try to learn more from people, mentors, in all aspects of life. _______________________________________________________________________________________________________________
KREYOLICIOUSLY YOURS…ANEDIE

A sure way to get me angry is to…Betray my trust

The last time I cried was when…I watched a romance movie (yesterday)

I can’t help but smile when…I see children happy.

At this point of my life, what I value most are…My family—especially grandma—my better half, my home, knowledge—education—positiveness.

Most people don’t know that I…Have a tattoo (hidden)

Artists I’m really feeling right now…Dido, Sade, JPerry.

Three words that describe me for sure…Honest, loyal, goofy

I wish people weren’t…So materialistic and selfish.

In my downtime, I like to…Watch movies, cook or go to restaurants, spend time with loved ones.

These are my instructions to the man who I will marry…I found you already and you better stay the same or get better.

Image Sources: Various, including Paul Cobo Photography

It’s time for another episode of Kreyolicious History 101…in which curious facts about Haiti and History are presented.

Did you know that a Haitian man by the name of William de Fleurville was the personal barber and confidant to future U.S. President Abraham Lincoln?

William de Fleurville was born in Cap Haitien, Haiti in 1807, and was nicknamed Billy the Barber.

Records indicate that he immigrated to the United States in 1820. What could have led him to do leave a brand new country of free black people to go to one, that was at this point, still under the yoke of black slavery in most of its parts?

Well, what was going on in Haiti in 1820? Jacques Nicolas Leger in Haiti, Her History and Her Detractors indicate that King Henri Christophe committed suicide in October of that year. De Fleurville, a native of Cap Haitien, where Christophe’s rule was based, may have had been part of the prominent families under the King’s protection perhaps?

Discussing de Fleurville in a chapter entitled “Lincoln and The Negro” in the book The Negro in Illinois: The WPA Papers, the editors maintain that de Fleurville first went to Baltimore, Maryland to be with his godmother. They go on to state that after her death, the entrepreneur hitchhiked his way to the state of Illinois in search of opportunities.

By the time he met Lincoln in 1831, either because people were having issues with pronouncing his name, or whether he wanted to gain anonymity in his adopted land, de Fleurville began to call himself Florville.

Lincoln is credited with giving him his first clients, according to historian Benjamin Quarles in the book The Negro In The Civil War. Mr. de Fleurville’s barbershop, according to historians, became a meeting place for Lincoln, and one of his favorite spots until his subsequent marriage to Mary Todd Lincoln in 1842. Furthermore, some historians speculate that many of the barber’s jokes and humor pieces found their way into Lincoln’s later speeches as president.

But de Fleurville’s barbershop wasn’t the only venture he had. Guess this Mr. de Fleurville was an early advocate of the multiple streams of income mentality so often proselytized by entrepreneurs, because, it turns out (according to Quarles) that he also had a catering business, and was a big investor in real estate. As a matter of fact, he had retained Lincoln as his lawyer and tax advisor in matters related to his real estate holdings (still according to Quarles).

The writer and historian William Loren Katz maintains that although a Catholic, de Fleurville became one of the founders of the Saint John Baptist Church in Springfield, and gave back to the community, supporting several causes (particularly religious ones). Quarles maintains that Abraham Lincoln and Mr. de Fleurville kept in touch over the years and that when Lincoln died, de Fleurville was listed as a pallbearer, but a skilled clarinet player and musician, he played in the funeral march instead.

A 1951 article in Jet magazine reported that a treasure trove of papers—including a letter exchanges between Lincoln and de Fleurville (Florville)—were among the papers released by the state of Illinois that year.

De Fleurville died in 1868, leaving a host of descendants in the United States. Katz’s aforementioned book stated that the entrepreneur had married Phoebe Roundtree, a local girl. His funeral, asserts the book Black Pioneers: An Untold Story, was cited by a local newspaper as one of the largest and widely attended send-offs the town had ever seen.

This has been another episode of Kreyolicious Haiti History 101…in which curious facts about Haiti and History are presented.

The legendary Alix “Buyu” Ambroise Jr’s journey has been different to say the least. It took him from Port-au-Prince, Haiti—where he was born into one of Haiti’s aristocratic families—to Africa, and then New York, where he currently resides.

During Ambroise’s early years, he found himself inspired by the music of saxophone great Charlie Parker, John Coltrane and the pianist and composer Thelonious Monk, just to name a few. Initially attracted to the flute, Ambroise eventually picked up the saxophone. He would go on to play the sax for different bands, and actually founded several—including the jazz-folklore bands Freefall, Metrosonik—but it would take years for him to go the solo route. When he did so, in the early 2000s, it was almost as if some musical waterfall burst through. His latest disc is the creatively-titled Jazzpora. That album has a track called “En Vacances” that’s very piano-heavy, with nostalgic chords meant to evoke the sun-drenched summers spent in Haiti that Ambroise recalls ever so well. The foundations of the opening track “Fifth House” were obviously laid on African-styled rhythms. The track ends with the tamed last minutes sounds of a wild Caribbean carnival of sort.

Ambroises’s other previous release Marasa was the perfect outlet for him to vomit out all the different influences that he’d been absorbing since childhood. The percussion-driven disc displayed Ambroise’s penchant for dramatic bass lines, and made use of harried west African-inspired rhythms, and yielded an overall eclectic sound.

Blues in Red, released in the mid-2000s, contained 10 tracks—mostly traditional songs from Haiti’s traditional song repertoire like “Kote Moun Yo”, “Kouzen”, and “Caravan”. The latter was a piece that bemoaned and celebrated the endless odyssey of Haitians, who pack and roam with all their cultural possessions with multiple stops. On the album’s cover, Ambroise’s downcast face is set in sepia Nephilim-like proportions, the only brightness is the Haitian flag bandana wrapped around his head. He doesn’t clutch his saxophone, but holds it away from his face, as if it’s something he’s reluctantly embracing. Happily, the cover for Jazzpora has Ambroise clutching to his instrument like a long-lost love found, and blowing passionately into it.

Passion is a trait embedded in Ambroise’s performances from the stage of the Montreal Jazz Music Festival to the New York Blue Note Jazz Brunch series. One of his latest appearances was at the Jazz Mobile, late this summer. His roots-drenched music can be heard from the performing stage of La Caye, a Haitian venue near the Brooklyn Art Museum.

Q & A

What sort of man is Buyu Ambroise?
I am an artist, parent, and educator. I have spent my life fulfilling all these roles. All of them require a full-time commitment. Sometimes I give priority to one role over another. However, the artistic me always takes precedence and has been and continues to be the guiding light that shines the pathways of my life.

You left Haiti as a child. Do you have any memories of the time you spent there?
I vividly remember my childhood years growing up in Haiti during the heyday of the Duvalier dictatorship which would later impact both my adolescent and adult life. As a child of the 1960’s era and growing up in Haiti, I attended the Petit Séminaire College St Martial—a liberal Catholic school in Port-au-Prince which prepared me academically and later helped shape my political views. Being part of a middle-class family back in those days, one easily could become a political target of the Duvalier regime. Any opposition to the government then could cost one’s life or exile. Some members of my family were targeted and became victims. Therefore, during my youth years in Haiti—as far I can remember—fear was a common denominator in my daily routine. Government terror impacted Haitian life. I first left Haiti to join my dad who was working as an educator in the Congo. I would later return to spend two more years in Haiti, but repressive political events in Haiti along with the disappearance of close relatives, brought the family to an exiled residency in the U.S. My childhood in Haiti was short but my memories limitless. As any other young boy in my neighborhood, a lot my leisure time was spent playing soccer, listening to music, exploring nature, visiting family members. I am fortunate to have been born in a family of artists. At home, there was always music. That was the seed of my music apprenticeship.

How did you get the name Buyu?
It was given to me by my grandmother, Reine Taluy. It has stuck with me since.

You spent a considerable part of your childhood in The Republic of Congo, also known as Zaire. What do you remember of those years?
My dad, who landed a job in the newly independent Congo would later have the family join him there. As a child, I attended school. The 1960’s was a period of social change for the Congolese. There was a growing sense of nationalism. Haitian educators and other professionals were recruited by the Congolese government to replace the fleeing Belgians, who once colonized that country. Our family lived in Leopoldville, the capital, which later was renamed Kinshasa. I intermittently lived there for two years. I have fond memories of the time spent there with my parents and siblings. It was a new experience as any immigrant would feel anxiety, longing for one’s country, language barrier, adaptation to a new environment, etc. However, the transition for me was somewhat smooth. There was a niche of Haitian immigrants living in the Congo. That small community somewhat bonded and was able to create a support system which was useful to the Haitian compatriots. I remember listening to African bands playing music. My dad used to go listen to live music performances by Congolese groups. It was good dancing music. It had, surprisingly, elements of Afro-Cuban influence, but with a style dominated by guitars and horns. I remember spending time listening to the radio and records that my dad would buy for his home collection. He was an avid listener and a passionate musician. He played the piano and would perform solo piano concerts for the school where he worked or wherever he could find the instrument. He would play all the Haitian repertoire that he had learned back in Haiti.

Was there a big Haitian Community in the Congo?
Yes, there was a considerable amount of Haitian professionals living in the Congo during the time I lived there. Among them, the illustrious Maurice Sixto, the great raconteur whom I had the privilege to meet. I also met Raoul Peck, one of the best Haitian filmmakers of my generation.

Later of course, following the time in the Congo, your parents moved to New York.
With Mobutu being in power in the Congo, my dad felt the need to relocate elsewhere. He decided to migrate to the United States. I moved to New York as a young adolescent. The biggest shocks? Having to adapt to a new language; a new school curriculum. It was a period of social unrest in the U.S. African-Americans were leading marches and fighting for their civil rights. The assassination of Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King; the Black Panther Movement was rampant in my neighborhood in Brooklyn; the Vietnam War; the Hippies; etc. were events that shook my world. The late 1960’s and early 1970’s were a period of major changes which happened so quickly. Being a young adolescent immigrant, I was unprepared. I was not able to understand the complexities of my environment, let alone understand the social, cultural and political phenomena which would later fashion my political, social and cultural views as an adult. I was just beginning to listen to jazz. It was also a period in which young Haitians attending school were stigmatized and being called Frenchies or immigrants. Many of them were unable to defend themselves due to language and cultural barriers. Young Haitians formed gangs. They roamed the streets of Brooklyn protecting their turfs. It was a highly combustive period where everything happened too fast but I was able to grasp a tiny bit of everything.

What attracted you to the saxophone?
I first began to play the saxophone while I attended George W. Wingate H.S. in Brooklyn, N.Y. I started while in the 10th grade. It was the time when Haitian bands like Shleu-Shleu, Fantaisistes de Carrefour, Shupa-Shupa, Les Ambassadeurs etc. were becoming popular. All of these bands were led by a saxophone. This instrument became very popular. I used to listen to their music and pay particular attention to the horn players. But the choice of playing the saxophone was purely a coincidence. I started on the flute and later switched to the saxophone because the flute had mechanical problems. The music instructor suggested that I choose and play another instrument. That’s how I began playing the alto saxophone.

Blues in Red is a rather intriguing title, and it was the name of your first musical baby. [Can you please discuss the album? The recording process of it?
There wasn’t really a plan to record an album. It began with Haiti’s Bicentennial Celebration in 2004. My cousin Patrick Plantin suggested that I form a group and do a musical tribute to our country by recording a jazz album. I agreed with the idea and followed his suggestions. In 2004, I recorded and released the CD entitled Blues in Red. It was named after the colors of the Haitian flag.

And why after playing the saxophone for such a long time on other artists’ albums, you finally decided to do one of your own?
I guess it took time for me to feel confident enough to do a recording as a leader.

Jazzpora is your latest work. Do you care to discuss it?
Jazzpora is my third CD as of date. It is a continuation of the first CD project Blues in Red. It is a collection of works that rest upon small jazz combo arrangements and compositions. I am constantly in search of a new approach in my musical journey. Obviously, the title expresses our experience of life in the diaspora through the sounds of music.

Do you think that Jazz music as you know it will die in years to come?
I don’t think so. Jazz and classical music will always be around. Jazz is not a transient form of music. It continues to evolve in so many ways and is still a popular form of music. So many young jazz artists are pushing the envelope and making a name for themselves.

Jazz greats Frank Foster, Jimmy Owens and John Lewis have all been inspirations to you. What are some of the things you learned studying under these talents?
Under each of these instructors I learned a lot: jazz theory; jazz harmony; saxophone techniques; reading music, and other music fundamentals and rudiments.

Just like you looked up to them at one point, some look up to you now. What advice do you have for the aspiring jazz musicians?
Becoming a jazz musician requires a full-time commitment to the art form. Many universities and specialized programs nowadays offer jazz curricula where one can learn and earn a degree in music. It is the best route to take.

From Marasa to your current albums, you always manage to gather a talented assorted bunch to work alongside you. How do you get them together?
Fortunately, living in New York gives one a great advantage since this is an arts mecca. There are so many talented musicians living here in NYC. Having played so many years in so many different places, my Rolodex cards are filled with names. I tend to select a bunch of great players who can respond to the music I strive to play: Haitian Jazz.

Do you think that Haitian music has influenced American music, as in music in the United States, more than most people might think?
The United states and Haiti are the two oldest republics of the western hemisphere. These two nations are intertwined in music. It is well documented by historians that Haitian slaves were taken by their owners to Louisiana during the revolutionary period of St Domingue in the late 18th century. Those slaves were said to have brought their musical heritage with them which later influenced the music which played at Congo Square. Congo Square music later became the seed that germinated and flourished into a style of music that is today called jazz.

Is the use of drugs as pervasive among musicians in the music world, as some seem to assume?
I have seen very little use of it in my circle of musicians.

You have collaborated with a great many Haitian artists. Which collaborations have been the most fruitful and satisfying in terms of musical chemistry, and output?
My musical collaboration with pianist Ernst Marcelin and guitarists Alix “Tit” Pascal, D’Ernst Emile and Albert “Beti” Ambroise were very fruitful in learning Haitian music of all genres.

As someone who was born in Haiti, and yet has spent practically an entire lifetime in the United States, when you go there now, what’s the feeling you get, what’s the vibe?
For each time I go home, I experience a total natural makeover of myself. When I perform in Haiti, I feel replenished, renewed, and a feeling of nourishing my heritage. Haiti is the reservoir of my inspiration.

When was the last time you were there, by the way?
The last time I was there was in October 2011. I did a tour that took me to the north of Haiti. I performed on the grounds the famous Sans-Souci Palace in Milot.

Let’s give our love and support to our Haitian artists. Get more acquainted with Buyu Ambroise, his music, and the latest on his performances.

Makeup, healthy eating, styling and fashion—Kristelle Jean-Pierre loved them all! The very idea of abandoning one for the other just didn’t seem right. So, she founded Sacred Beauty By Kristelle, a venture that combines her love for makeup, her predilection for healthy eating, and her love for fashion.

One glance at her, and you know she practices what she preaches to her mostly-female clientele. Her skin is flawless, and her sense of style is of high-fashion magazine caliber. Your girl Kreyolicious talked to this impressive entrepreneur. Follow along as she share her thoughts. If you’re an aspiring or established beauty entrepreneur, you might have a lot in common with her.

Kreyolicious: How did you get involved in styling, initially?
I have been styling and doing hair since [I was] a little girl. I’ve been doing it professionally for over four years now. It started really in 2011 when I felt my heart calling me to enroll into beauty school. My experience in beauty school helped me to gain the tools and certification to be able continue to live my dream of becoming a holistic beautician and entrepreneur.

I own my own business as a private beauty consultant offering a variety of beauty services to mostly bridal and special events! My mission is to help women honor their inner beauty through hair care, relaxation and pampering. I believe we all are royalty and should always feel like that!

Kreyolicious: A lot of times a person will be given a makeover one day, and then, they’ll let themselves go. What advice do you have in terms of maintaining a look?
A makeover just enhances the beauty that is already within! It’s only right to continue maintaining that good feeling. My advice [is that] you can still maintain the feeling even if you don’t go all out and [continue] wearing make up. It’s good practice to just go with what feels right: lip stick, some eyeliner and a favorite outfit to make your day. This can make a big difference on you [regarding] your day. I know this first-hand. When you’re looking and feeling good, no one can mess up your day. It is an essential part of our self-worth and confidence.

Kreyolicious: ​ I have seen your work on Instagram. How do you keep up with the latest styles and techniques.
I am brilliant at creating up-dos and various hairstyles with all hair hair types. I enjoy the creative process of creating my own hairstyle or breaking down a style my client requests. I instinctively can look at a hairstyle and in my mind break down how it was achieved. For when my clients come to me with an up-do, or a style they like, I enjoy the process of just figuring it out. The end result is a similar hairstyle with my unique touch to it!

Some styles I may need to take a class or online video tutorial to understand. That is when I will take a private class or attend a workshops at trade shows, to continue learning and growing!
When it comes to fashion, I am brilliant at helping ladies find a hairstyle to match the outfit. Sometimes, we [may] find a nice gown or day wear and [client’s] hairstyle may not go with the outfit.

Kreyolicious: Do you think the penchant for natural hair has hurt or helped the beauty industry in general?
It promotes positive self-image because it helps mostly women of color and little girls see their hair as beautiful too. For in the media and magazines, mostly straight or hair extensions are promoted more. Our natural hair can do the same. With the proper care and treatment, our natural hair can be straightened, twisted or blown out for nice up-dos and more. Helping us to embrace our true beauty and power.

I know how the media can influence a person’s perception of beauty. I used to be that woman, until I went through to my beauty transformation. Now, I understand I can wear any style, as long as there is a balance and my hair is taken care of first.

My beauty experience helped me to embrace all of me and be my authentic self! This is why I want to contribute to this growing beauty industry, to help all women—especially women of color—continue to embrace their natural beauty, and be their authentic selves!

Kreyolicious: Who are your style heroes?
I truly love to see women wearing different hairstyles and trying fun colors. As far as celebrities, I love Solange, India Arie, Pink, Erykah Badu and Oprah. All of these strong women in the spotlight who are not afraid to wear their hair any way they feel, and be authentically themselves! Also, my reality style heroes are the queens I see everyday wearing their own unique styles [who] are not afraid to try a different look, hair color or outfits. It reminds me of our true beauty and power. To be able to play with our hair and style it however way we feel—that is freedom to me!

Kreyolicious: Are there some products that you can’t do without?
Yes, there are a couple of items. One is my Shea butter by Afrigenix for hair and skin butter. It keeps hair moisturized especially when doing protected styles. My essential oils lavender and rosemary oil for when I do my hair therapy. These are staples I can’t leave without!

Above: Kristelle Jean-Pierre. Photo Credit: Michelle Wild Studio

Kreyolicious: Being into style entrepreneurship ​has its ups and downs…​how do you tackle the difficult moments?
The difficult moments as an entrepreneur is a learning experience! Now, I’m seeing life from a different perspective. If there is no struggle or challenge then I’m not growing. I love to learn and explore. So now, When I’m going [through] a difficult moment, I use it as motivation to get to my next level! I take time to retreat, meditate, and pray to get clarity before taking action. I find taking time to just be the observer helps me focus on the lesson [at hand] and move forward.

Kreyolicious: Do you count your parents as your biggest supporters?
I do now. For they allowed me a space to learn and grow and become the wonderful woman I am today. My parents did their best raising us. However, they were not very supportive of my dream to be a hairstylist at a very young age. Although my father said no, my grandmother who raised my sisters and I, encouraged us to complete our education first. She said once we get our degree, we [could do] anything else we liked. So I did just that! I continued my education in my other passion in nutrition. I received my Bachelor’s in Food and Science. Being a nutritionist, I also am passionate about helping people make positive life changes and create healthy habits. As I look back now, I’m happy things went the way they did. The knowledge and experience I [gained] in college prepared me for beauty school and more! So, I took it all one step at a time.

Kreyolicious: How do you stay connected with Haitian culture?
I stayed connected by listening to Haitian music, supporting Haitian events and like-minded entrepreneurs/people who are involved in the community. I have not been to Haiti since I left as little girl. However, I do plan to go back soon, to give back and get to know my birth place. My family and I moved to New York when I was five.

Kreyolicious: What advice would you like to give to those who’d like to be in your industry?
“To thrive in this industry you need patience, dedication, imagination and inspiration”. This is what keeps me going, a quote my beauty school instructor gave us one day and I live by it. My advice is to have patience with yourself, keep the vision alive by feeding it with the things you enjoy and stay determine despite life’s up and downs. So do not give up and Before you know your dreams will come true!

[Main Photo Credit: Scarlett Metellus]

FOLLOW THIS ENTREPRENEUR’S JOURNEY BY VISITING HER WEBSITE HERE! | KRISTELLE ON PINTEREST |

If you’re feeling indecisive about career and life decisions you have to make, look further than New York Assembly member Kimberly Jean-Pierre for some solid advice and inspiration. A graduate of Brooklyn College, the now-state official also attended Stony Brook College, where she earned a Master’s Degree in Public Policy. As the daughter of Haitian immigrants, she could not stand sitting with her legs crossed when an earthquake hit Haiti in the early 2010s. She got on the staff of the Haiti Relief Project, helping oversee the relief effort. But long before that catastrophic event, she had sought out Haiti-related causes, having served as Vice President of an organization called Haitian Americans United for Change.

“Sadly, I have never visited the country,” says the state official. “Many people find it very hard to believe because I love the culture and speak Creole fluently. My mom hasn’t been back since 1992 and my father never felt it was safe for me to travel.” The earthquake would have been a vital time to travel there, but she knew she’d be more helpful by staying in New York raising money, gathering medical supplies, apparel and food. “I planned to travel [last] summer, but the campaign came along. The plan is to travel [this] year.”

Meanwhile, she’s going places in life and in her career, and, boy, can we learn a thing or two from her.

Don’t be afraid to do a 180.

“After graduating undergraduate school, I knew I wanted to somehow get involved in education,” she recalls. “I applied for the Fellows Program to become a teacher, but I wasn’t sure about being a teacher. My brother encouraged me to apply for a Master’s Program at Stony Brook University and Public Policy was a new program and I figure I can use this degree to get involved in educational policies. Through the graduate program, I fell in love with local Politics and local government and never left.”

Being in proximity to parents and loved ones is cool, but it’s even better to get out of your comfort zone.

“Long Island was never a thought for me,” contends the native Brooklynite, “but graduate school brought me here. Internships created an entire new definition of what I can do with my degree and the opportunity for a new environment. It’s important to look at your options and the network you have built. Putting yourself in a challenging situation like I did helps you overcome so many factors that not only help you professionally—but personally.”

Above: Kimberly Jean-Pierre has a light conversation with some women in her community.

If you’re torn between degrees, there’s only one thing to do…

“Study what you love,” advises Kimberly Jean-Pierre. “I went into Creative Writing because—[from] childhood to my young adult [years], I kept a journal documenting my daily life. I was always a big storyteller and enjoyed playing pretend. More importantly, I battled with my writing and knew it was a necessary tool.”

If your parents had humble beginnings, let that be a driving force of sorts for you.

“I think both of my parents did what they had to do based on the time they came to the United States,” she explains to Kreyolicious. “My mom was a home health aide for over 25 years—and as a single mom she carried out her responsibilities to ensure all four of her children were educated and taken care of. I knew if the opportunities available to me were available to both my parents, their lives would be different.”

Let others do them, and do you.

Now that Kimberly Jean-Pierre is a big-shot in the state of New York, does she ever come across people who used to be mean in high school, and who try to act like they’re her best friends now? “Oh, New York Assembly Woman, Kimberly Jean-Pierre! Girl, what’s up”, and they try to high-five her or dap her and everything. “I am grateful that I can’t relate to that,” she tells Kreyolicious of that scenario. And even if there had been meanies, she probably was oblivious to them. “I have always been a kind and friendly individual. My friends always ask me, “Why are you always smiling or laughing?” Life is too short, there’s no reason for enemies, and effective communication eliminates all this mean behavior.”

Work for free, work for free—also known as interning.

Kimberly’s internship with the New York Public Interest Research Group led to a lot of great opportunities afterwards. To those out there who are thinking about interning, she has plenty of advice in terms of what internships to apply for, and how to make the best of an internship. “Internships are an opportunity for one to build his or her network in the industry they seek interest in, so use it wisely,” she advises. “Ask to be a part of projects, meetings, bring forth ideas, etc. Interns are like staff, employers like to hire within so be known and always be professional. My career on Long Island started with internships and the relationships I built which promoted me from one level of government to another, starting in 2008.”

Above: Kimberly Jean-Pierre (in pink blouse) speaks to blue collar workers in her community.

It’s possible for introverts to become leaders.

Is it really? “Yes,” she replies, “when you break out of it. Pride doesn’t exist on the journey to success.” She continues: “You have to be comfortable to ask questions and make mistakes. Learning from your mistakes is imperative because it changes you professionally and personally. A leader requires work and my pastor would say Leadership is decisiveness, consistency and strength. Change is the essence of maturation.”

Books can change one’s whole outlook on life.

And Kimberly has read such a book. “That book would be my life, my childhood,” she contends. “My mom was a single mom, and as her second oldest but the oldest in the house, the responsibilities of my siblings was mine while she worked long hours. I raised my sister and brother once I graduated graduate school—bringing them to Long Island. The early adult decisions I had to make have shaped me today.

Some gut feelings may turn out to be wrong.

“Nothing comes to mind right now, but I am sure it has happened,” she says of the go-by-your-instincts rule. “You learn to look at the pros and cons of the decision you have to make.”

Remember the basics.

The Assembly Woman says that if she could break down her life into three lessons, they’d simply be summarized in three words: Faith, partnerships and confidence. “Faith–know that God loves you puts your through journeys in preparation for the future. Keep him alive within you,” she explains. “Partnerships—leadership doesn’t occur without building a network and foundation. Confidence- believe in yourself, as a young woman I battled with this but every day I get stronger. Confidence helps you in so many areas of your life.”

Take matters one at a time.

When Kreyolicious inquired about her plans for the future, Kimberly replies, “I am not quite sure, but I know it will be good. I have stopped planning for the future, instead I am focused on the now.”

And speaking of now, Kreyolicious cheries, it’s time for you to put some of these principles to use! Meanwhile…

[Photos furnished by subject.]

KIMBERLY JEAN-PIERRE ON TWITTER| VISIT KIMBERLY JEAN-PIERRE’S WEBSITE

In a matter of years, Jimmy Jean-Louis has become the most prominent black actors in Hollywood and one of the most successful Haitian actors in Hollywood (some would say the most successful). Jean-Louis who immigrated to France while a pre-teen worked first as a model in Europe, then moved to the USA in the 90s, and has never looked back.

From roles in Phat Girls to Diary of a Tired Black Man to his iconic role in the television hit series, Jean-Louis practically typifies the Hollywood Dream. But he’s also spread his wings, having flirted with Nollywood, having starred in Relentless and the award-winning Sinking Sands, two African-produced dramas. One of the biggest highlights of his career thus far, is playing the Haitian revolutionary Toussaint L’Ouverture in the Philippe Niang biopic of the legendary 19th Century leader. Next up is a role as a priest alongside 50 Cent, Meg Ryan, John Lithgow, and Anthony Anderson in the film The Lives of Saints. For Jean-Louis, life is good.

At the time of our interview, the actor is fighting a really bad cold, but decides he wants to keep his word about our scheduled interview. Calling from Paris, France, the Pétionville-born actor is enthusiastic and animated as he discusses the Toussaint L’ouverture project, family life, and educating kids in Haiti, a cause close to his heart.

Would you tell us about the mini-series that you’re in, that’s about Toussaint L’ouverture?
As it is now, it’s two movies of 90 minutes. Part 1 and part 2. It’s a total of 3 hours. It was shot entirely in French, [with] a little bit of Kreyol as well. Shot in France and Martinique, which replaced Haiti as a location. It’s ready now. I believe between February or March, it will be available. It was financed by French television…France 2. It will be on their station first and then [it will be available] for the international market. I’m not sure yet how it’s going to be distributed, whether it’s going to be in theaters or broadcasted on an [American] television station.

How did you get involved?
The producers contacted me. You have to understand they have tried to make this movie for the past 20 years. And Danny Glover tried to make this movie for the past 15 years. And many other names have tried to make it. It was a long overdue movie. I was called by the producers to play the role, because they felt I fit the character. I had to do a lot of exercises. I had to learn how to ride a horse. I took lessons for a couple of months. [I had to learn how to] do sword-fighting. I took lessons in California and France.

Did you read any books to give you a sense of the time period?
Yeah, of course. I read a few books. I watched a few documentaries that were made about him. I had information coming from him from historians in America and France. Had a lot of conversations. So, I had to do a lot of research to portray him as well. I’m very, very proud of the end results.

Why was the movie filmed in Martinique and not in Haiti? A lot of people feel it would have brought a lot of publicity to Haiti, and it only seemed natural that it should be filmed in Haiti and not another island.
Haiti falls short on some requirements. I think the production tried, but it’s difficult to get insurance to insure a place like Haiti right now. From what I’ve been told, that’s one of the reasons why we couldn’t go there and shoot. The structure in Haiti is not the best either. Electricity. The roads are still pretty bad. As a Haitian, I would love to have shot it there.

Are you going to be returning to American television anytime soon?
I’m not sure as to what will come to me in the future. I’m open to all kinds of projects. I’m still doing movies in different places, in different markets. Whether it’s America, France, or Africa. As of now, I am not currently attached to any American TV show.

What was the last the last thing that made you cry?
[long pause] Well. [pause]. Maybe going back to Haiti. Definitely the earthquake. Since I’ve been going back and forth, I’m very touched by what’s happened. Every time you go there, you still find a good reason to cry. I was there last week, and the situation is still so bad. People losing their family members. The dire situation there.