Platform and Possibilities

Petula Skeete is a celebrity hairstylist, motivational coach, founder of Uplifting You, and the author of Uplifting: Your Ultimate Dream Journal. For more than two decades, Petula has dedicated her life to helping individuals embrace their unique beauty, whether on the world’s biggest stages or during the quiet, powerful moments of personal transformation.Through her work, Petula blends creativity with purpose, believing that beauty is more than appearance; it is confidence, self-worth, and the courage to shine from within. Her mission has always been to uplift others, helping them discover the strength, elegance, and brilliance that already lives inside them.On any platform, you’ll find Petula’s reach goes well beyond hairstyling. She is a phenomenal woman who fights with her heart, embraces her heritage and the power of her inspiration, and values the gift of healing. Whether you’re seeking motivation, empowerment, or a style that allows your inner star to shine, Petula’s message is clear: beauty should always uplift.In this month of celebrating women, the journey is about creating beauty that inspires both inside and out. Let Petula show you the way to tapping your inner beauty and putting that glow on your outer self.

Abena Amory, daughter of celebrated vocalist Ms. Jacqueline Erlene Williams-King and the late Honorable Vance Amory, Former Premier of Nevis, grew up surrounded by music.From childhood, she was enveloped in a world of melody and rhythm, shaped by the artistic and cultural legacy of her family.Abena's evolution as a singer and songwriter began in the vibrant musical landscape of her mother’s native St. Vincent and continued to flourish during her formative years in New York City, where her sound and identity as an artist took deeper root. Over the past 2 years, she has graced the Nevis Mango Festival stage as ell as the St. Kitts Music Festival. While she has broadened her horizon connecting with celebrities are giants in the music industry, the humble Abena treasures the familiar warmth of her people.Her story is ripe with lessons of love, selflessness, community and heart. Abena is truly an inspiration. Check her out on her social media handles on Tik Tok, Facebook and Instagram, as well as on all streaming platforms.

Author Leah T. Williams is a storyteller who believes in the power of words to connect people across cultures, generations, and experiences. Through her writing, she seamlessly weaves together emotion, heritage, and voice, creating these fascinating stories that feel both deeply personal and universally relatable. Leah's work often explores themes of migration, identity, belonging, and the quiet resilience found in everyday life. Even amidst her busy life as an educator, Leah has managed to write and publish several compelling works, including Where the Guava Tree Stands, a lyrical novel-in-verse about memory and identity; Neither Out Far nor In Deep, a Caribbean coming-of-age story about finding one’s roots; and Where Is Noemi, a young adult mystery centered on sisterhood and secrets. Sweet Like Sugarcane, continues her exploration of love, legacy, and the stories that shape who we become.On Platform and Possibilities, Leah shares insights about storytelling, culture, and her creative journey, inviting listeners to reflect, imagine, and discover the possibilities within their own lives.We couldn't be more pleased to have Leah talk to the world about her craft. Congratulations to a phenomenal woman; blooming: becoming greater than she could ever imagine.

Science educator Julie Walters-Nesbitt speaks on STEM and life in her adopted home. Having taught Science for over twenty-five years she teaches young people about Science using practical skills. She's been a middle leader for over 10 years leading on Key Stage 4 Science, Black Boy Achievement, as well as a Head of Year for 6 years.In 2024, Julie was invited to be a British Science Association Community STEM Ambassador. She loves teaching Science to all the Leicester Communities. For the last 3 years, she has hosted an annual STEAM Fair at the African Caribbean Centre, Leicester.She continues to make her contribution to her community and adopted home.

Brenda is a distinguished business leader, radio host, lecturer, publisher, award winning activist and educator. She was born in St. Kitts-Nevis and attended the Cayon Primary and High School. She has become a tireless advocate for cultural diplomacy and representation. She's also the CEO of her Toronto, Canada based consulting firm, BStyled and she's been instrumental in shaping Toronto' Caribbean and African Diasporic communities. She's an outspoken champion of human rights and reparatory justice for Africans and Afro descendants. As a former Consul General based in Toronto Canada, Brenda has been at the helm of many initiatives, including promoting the citizenship by descent program which has sparked a new interest in youth involvement in attaining St. Kitts-Nevis citizenship. Most importantly, Brenda is a proud mom of two girls and continues her thrust to give back to her community and country. Take a listen!

Patricia Welsh has published her second book in the Finding Jane series, entitled, Is This Love? (FINDING JANE).Is This Love? is part of a trilogy Welsh envisioned long before she penned her first book from which themes such as Alzheimer's, family relationships, friendships, spousal abuse, and of course love ring through.In the second book, Welsh spotlights Richard, a handsome, wealthy bachelor who sweeps Jane off her feet with his blunt arrogance and charm. Jane falls in love with Richard and decides to give love a second chance. Landon, her fiancée, featured in book 1, passed away tragically and she long mourned his loss. Jane feels pressed to give love a second chance and she gleefully accepts her suitor Richard's proposal to become his wife. Jane feels pressed to give love a second chance and she gleefully accepts her suitor Richard's proposal to become his wife. Marrying Richard makes her the envy of all the single ladies in Atlanta, but it doesn't take long for her to realize that not all that glitters is truly gold. The suspense builds in the second edition of the Love Journey. Ms. Patricia Welsh is a result driven professional economist with over 20 years of experience working at the Eastern Caribbean Central Bank (ECCB). She aspires to improve the economic circumstances of the member countries of the Eastern Caribbean Currency Union (ECCU) through the use of knowledge and experience gained in applied macroeconomics, macro-fiscal analysis, policy formulation and research methodology.

Nyoka Gumbs-Henry is the author of The Day After the Unemployment Runs Out! A Survival Guide for Those Facing Financial Hardship. The book is packed with practical strategies and heartfelt advice to help readers navigate financial challenges with confidence and is for anyone dealing with unemployment, financial uncertainty, or unexpected financial challenges. Feel free to read the book from cover to cover or find the chapters specific to you. Nyoka was born and raised on the twin island paradise of St. Kitts and Nevis before migrating to the USA at 16 years old. Her rich educational and cultural foundation have kept her rooted even while facing unimaginable challenges. Nyoka's resilient spirit propelled her into productive spaces that have allowed her to grow as a professional architect. Her life experiences have brought her front and center in her craft, perfectly preparing her to be the embodiment of a woman blazing a trail for others to trod fiercely on. The Day After the Unemployment Runs Out is a resource filled production that will serve readers for years to come.

Ms. Venetta Zakers has long been a community advocate who believes in the power of service to community and country through the involvement of young people, particularly, young girls. Venetta has been at the helm of Zakers Affinity Causes since its inception in 2012 and she hasn't looked back. From one initiative to the next, she has proven to be the epitome of strength, going above and beyond to serve girls who will be the leaders of tomorrow. At this juncture in our nation's history when we celebrate 41 years of independence, what better opportunity to celebrate the work of this powerful advocate. Look for the ZAC logo and go out and support the events in October to celebrate International Month of the Girl Child.

Abena has been a fixture of the arts and culture in her New York/Caribbean community for years. She has shared the stage numerous times with her St. Vincent and the Grenadines born mom, Ms. Jacqueline Williams-King, a musical icon in every right. Abena is also the daughter of the late Honorable Vance W. Amory, former Premier of Nevis. Abena is an excellent candidate for the St. Kitts Music Festival stage. She has a diverse catalog of work that is the embodiment of an artist with the caliber of experience for an electrifying world class show like Music Fest.  Abena envisions the day when she will be given the nod of approval for her awe-inspiring sound. Until then, she is building her brand and guarding her voice. Her talent is endless. Her work ethic is impeccable. She is Abena Amory; an exemplary artist; the heart and soul of the St. Kitts and Nevis Diaspora. 

Melvina 'Mel' Chapman was born on the beautiful island of St. Kitts and Nevis, and raised in Leeds, England. She now calls Houston, Texas home. She's been a supplier of hospitality and marketing services for well over 25 years. Melvina’s experiences include an internship at the famed Dorchester Hotel in London, a Food and Beverage manager at the Four Seasons Hotel, Houston, a Sales and Marketing Manager, corporate event coordinator at the GRB Convention Center in Houston, a Manager of global meetings, events with the Coca-Cola Company and a Regional Marketing Manager for the Microsoft Corporation. Melvina served as the Director of Special Events and liaison of the Sales and Marketing Council at the Greater Houston Builders Association, the 3rd largest home builders association in the US, where she was responsible for the organizations’ most prestigious events. Over the years, Melvina has guided her event teams to successfully coordinate hundreds of meetings, trade shows, special events, executive retreats, product launches and numerous sporting events such as the Summer/Winter Olympics, World Cup and Super Bowl. Melvina served as President of the St. Kitts and Nevis Association of Houston (SKNAH) and along with her board, led the association with pride and distinction for 6 years. Melvina now serves as the Founder and Executive Director of The Caribbean Cultural Coalition, a non-profit organization dedicated to assisting members of the Caribbean community at home and in the US.A graduate of Park Lane College, Melvina holds a degree in Business Administration. Mel lives her life through the lens of – Work Hard, Play Harder. She is an avid traveler and has traversed the globe for both business and pleasure. When asked what gives her the most joy, she smiles and mentions her husband Calvin, her two handsome sons, Zack and Anthony and her lovely grand children. Melvina is truly a phenomenal woman.

Mrs. Sharon Huggins believes she was inherently born to be a giver and take care of others. She's a nurturer by nature and she truly loves to see people happy. A born again christian, Sharon regards the mishaps of others as her business. She has a caring and generous spirit and believes she has a special love and calling for the work she currently does. After relocating from New York to Port Charlotte Florida, Sharon's path in life shifted. She became a business owner and Director of Kidz of the Future Daycare and has sat in the Director's chair for over 13 years. Sharon worked for almost 20 years in corporate America at many different levels. She also has series 66 and series 7 certificates registered with the SEC and the New York Stock Exchange. She shifted career paths after pursuing business degrees in finance and investments. She was bold, visionary, and empowered. Sharon saw a need and she filled it. She has become a pillar for her family and her community. Instead of returning to corporate America, she used her business savvy and founded the Lighthouse Restoration Home, Inc., a not-for-profit organization that offers support for women, children, and families in her community. She has great plans to extend her work to other cities but is taking small footsteps as she watches her handiwork blossom ever so beautifully. Sharon is a change maker in every right! Sharon is a mother to her queen Alisha, and her king Giovanni, and has been married for many years to her dear husband Ali. She loves her family to her core and describes them as "her breath". She counts her gifts as blessings from God.

Phoenetia Browne is an all around athlete at heart. Born in the US, she was raised by St. Kitts and Nevis parents who stopped at nothing to ensure she and her siblings were immersed in sports just as they were in academics. Phoenetia had the best of both worlds, having migrated to New Jersey at the age of 7, while ingrained with the solid guidance of her St. Kitts and Nevis village. Her success in sports includes many state and county championship wins with her soccer and basketball teams. Although she also competed in softball, lacrosse, track and field, and other sporting activities, it was football that became her forever sport. Phoenetia earned her Bachelor of Science degree in Civil Engineering with a minor in Architecture and completed her Master’s of Science in Civil Engineering. She continued to play soccer throughout her matriculation and even worked as an Assistant women’s soccer coach at the University of St. Elizabeth before switching careers and applying her degrees as an Assistant Engineer at Turner Construction in NYC. Phoenetia chose to play professional football for UMF Sindri in Iceland where she earned a player of the year nomination, and was second in the league in goals scored. Safe to say, she never looked back. Phoenetia has a storied history as a European female soccer player and she currently plays with AS Saint-Etienne. Phoenetia founded Play More Live Better (PMLB) Recruiting Services in 2019, with the mission of guiding student-athletes in the Caribbean through the process of becoming student-athletes at colleges/universities abroad. She also founded the MPWR Girls Football Camp alongside her St. Kitts and Nevis teammate, Brittney Lawrence. MPWR introduces young girls in St. Kitts and Nevis to football in a fun and challenging environment. Phoenetia continues to honor the memory of her late mother, Ms. Andrea Charles-Browne, who was a highly acclaimed St. Kitts and Nevis diplomat of the United Nations, and a national athlete who competed  in cricket, netball, and track and field. Her mother was an Ambassador in diplomacy, education and sports and Phoenetia is eager to follow the path her mother paved for her.

Leah T. Williams is an educator and author of the novel, Neither out far nor in Deep. She hails from the independent Caribbean twin island nation of St. Kitts and Nevis. Here, she tells the story of a single mother who is so conflicted raising her 17-year-old son in the fast pace of city life that one day, she takes him to the land of her birth where life takes on a whole new meaning, for her son and her family. In this chit chat with Leah, the author, she expresses her love for writing and for the island upbringing that has shaped the woman she is and will continue to be.

In this episode of Platform and Possibilities, we highlight how the Covid-19 pandemic has affected the future of many New York City Catholic schools. These schools have served their communities in multiple ways but require sustainable funding to keep their doors open. After decades of service to the Harlem Community, my child’s first formal institution of learning closes its doors this summer. The Ascension story is a reminder of the beauty of our communities as immigrants who play an integral role wherever we go. The beauty of the diversity that echoed in the classrooms at Ascension everyday will always make my heart smile and I know without talking about it to my child, she too will always remember how her heart smiled on those very steps she walked each day to learn, play and grow.

In this edition of Platform and Possibilities we celebrate Caribbean American heritage month and the splendor that surrounds the month of June, that special time of year for Caribbean Americans. However, we must take pause during the scorching summer months to examine a piece of our collective Caribbean truth that we seem to be challenged by; the current scourge of crime that is wreaking havoc across many of our tourism vested Caribbean countries. YES, June is Caribbean American Heritage Month, but what about the ugly face of Crime? How will our islands cope with the challenges crime brings? We have tough questions to ask on crime but even tougher challenges to find practical solutions to help keep our people safe. Let's not allow crime to spiral out of control.

In this edition of  Platform and Possibilities, we feature the tragic demise of Jordan Neely, a 30 year old black American man whose life violently ended while riding on a New York City subway, subdued by a former US Marine, who deemed Jordan’s erratic behavior a threat to his safety and the public. A chokehold would end the life of Jordan Neely and not long after would come protests that sparked a deeper investigation into the case resulting in Daniel Penny being charged with Jordan’s murder. Penny faces up to 16 years in prison if found guilty of Jordan’s death.

About two years ago, a dear friend who wanted to remind me of the power of aging shared with me 20 SPECIAL NOTES TO live by as you age! Of course, these tidbits are no where new to most of us but we must be ever so mindful of how intimately we align with these and other words of wisdom to live by! These tidbits were shared on 20 business days in May and are now conveniently shared here so that whether you’re young or not so young, something meaningful may resonate with you in this month of “May” and beyond.

In this edition of Platform and Possibilities, we share a bit about Earth Day and the conversations around “Mother Earth in Crisis." The brainchild and the founder of ⁠Earth Day⁠ was Senator Gaylord Nelson, an American politician and environmentalist from Wisconsin who served as a United States senator and governor of Wisconsin. Inspired by the protests of the 1960s, Senator Nelson helped to launch a new wave of ⁠environmental activism⁠ in his home state and across the United States. By raising public awareness of pollution, Nelson hoped to bring environmental causes into the national spotlight. On Earth Day Saturday, April 22, 2023, the focus and advocacy is even more intense. After decades of the climate crisis conversation, the overall approach to this ⁠#global⁠ challenge is not a one stroke painted canvas but a widely woven blanket of ideas and approaches that redound to the benefit of all, particularly the grassroots; those directly affected by food security challenges, water sourcing and conservation issues; those who bear the immediate brunt of climate change.

In this edition of Platform & Possibilities, we feature a drizzle of some of our many local and Diaspora based female authors. These women have helped me and so many other women along our life’s journey and their contributions to the development of their respective communities and the world for that matter, cannot be truly measured. I hope you enjoy learning about these women as much as I have. Bravo to female authors everywhere!!

In March each year, we celebrate all that is exceptional about the women in our communities. This March, we feature a few Kittitian and a Nevisian women residing in the Diaspora whose entrepreneurial skills serve others while allowing them to establish their brand and earn additional income doing what they love.

Women continue to excel in various fields globally and it’s fitting we continue to shine the spotlight on their accomplishments as successful women are beacons of hope for women and girls everywhere. Here, we feature three women in sports whose influence captures their indomitable spirit and their ability to inspire others long after they have left competitive sports. Each of these women in sports have shaped the lives of many women by the examples they have set. Their inspiration has helped to create excellence for others both personally and professionally. We are better because of their passion in sports.

Mrs. Edrice Lewis-Viechweg is the brainchild behind our uniquely designed national flag who hails from Newtown, Basseterre St. Kitts and currently resides in Connecticut, USA. Edrice has lived an exemplary life; one of honor, service, and devout patriotism. Given the caliber of a woman she has been, coupled with her expertly designed national flag which bears deep meaning for the people of our lands, it would be a remarkable honor in this 40th year of our independence to bestow the title of “National Recipient of the Star of Merit” upon Mrs. Edrice Lewis-Viechweg

Life is sometimes like the religion that we are taught as children. We are told to “believe in this way of worship” or “if you don’t abide by this doctrine, you will be forever cursed. We are inundated with stories about our fate as human beings if we don’t follow certain principles taught to us by man. In this episode, we speak briefly about how easily one can backslide or deviate from our goals. A true test of our character is realized in our backsliding. How do we get up when we fall down? How de we show up strong intent upon attaining our goals? We will fall down in life but it is in the getting up that we learn numerous lessons about life and our ability to WIN!

On December 14, 2022, the world learned that Stephen tWitch Boss, an American freestyle hip hop dancer, choreographer, actor, television producer, and television personality who was renowned for bringing his cool and upbeat vibe to the Ellen DeGeneres show, allegedly took his own life. This episode is an opportunity to pay homage to Boss, share condolences with his loved ones, and shine the spotlight on ourselves and our own mental health and mental health awareness.

Venetta Zakers is a daughter of St. Kitts and Nevis who found pleasure as a beauty queen, model, poet and community servant.  It is as a youth advocate that she has found her true calling and since 2012, she has been on a mission to reach, inspire, support and empower disadvantaged children and their families in St. Kitts and Nevis. The heart of Venetta's work is centered on impacting the lives of the nation's girls through developing a generation of ethical servant leaders with a desire to positively impact families, their communities, and the economy. As the founder and President of the Zakers Affinity Causes, Venetta is dedicated to the non-profit organization as it aligns closely to her passion for compassion towards others.  Listen keenly to this woman who has a heart for young people and a special heart for girls.

Ms. Kimarah T. Isaac is a phenomenal woman. She was born on the island of St. Kitts and developed a deep love for service at a very impressionable age. She kept the fire of service burning by pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in Hospitality Management and her Master’s degree in Business Administration with a concentration in Finance from Monroe College.  In this conversation, you will hear how Kimarah plays an integral role in Monroe College’s Executive Office, serving as a partner to its international admission team as the primary liaison for Caribbean students and government officials, and the broader higher education community in their home countries. Kimarah is responsible for helping prospective students learn about academic programs and student support services at Monroe, the admissions and enrollment process, and all pertinent visa and documentation requirements, and related issues. She also works closely with myriad government officials, agencies, and other key constituents in the Caribbean on matters relating to educational opportunities for their citizens. This is truly a woman who loves her work and also loves people. She recently earned the SHRM-CP certification as a Human Resources Professional and is a member of various professional organizations, including the National Black M.B.A. Association (NBMBA), Sandy Point Benevolent Society (SPBS), National Association of Black Accountants (NABA), American Hotel, and Lodging Association (AHLA), and Society for Human Resource Management. Her responsibilities include managing the scholarship recipient selection process, coordinating award credits with Finance, and reporting to the Finance Team and Government officials on quarterly revenue and spending projections. She is dubbed the Monroe College Ambassador, a name she truly deserves.

Coach Shirvon Greene is the Head Cross Country Coach/Associate Head Coach - Track & Field at Monroe College in the Bronx New York. He specializes in coaching Monroe’s long sprinters, middle distance runners, and cross-country runners and has done so for 13 seasons. Coach Greene has evolved as a coach who prides himself in the solid foundation in his hometown of Charlestown, Nevis. He shares without reservation the importance of several key people in his life, including his grandmother, his parents and loved ones, as well as his community in Nevis. Coach Greene's upbringing and childhood experiences have sharpened his focus, not only as a coach but also as a leader. As one of Monroe’s first-ever track athletes, Coach Greene began the tradition of excellence that has now been continued by the athletes currently under his guidance. He believes in giving back to his community and country and will continue to be a beacon of hope for others, especially young people. Coach Greene is duly committed to playing his part as a youth mentor and change-maker. The world has so much more to experience from this generous and inspiring human being.

Leonie Shorte Nicholls is a full time Regional Office Project Associate (ROPA) with SUNY Albany-Research Foundation-The Professional Development Program (PDP) with 17 years’ experience working alongside the Regional Director at the NYS Office of Children and Family Services/Westchester Regional Office.  She’s also a part time Independent Travel Advisor (ITA) with 2 years' experience building her Home Based Travel Business, PearLynn Travel.  She’s a graduate of Ithaca College and the University of Pennsylvania School of Social Work earning her Master’s in Social Work. Leonie specializes in domestic and international travel, as well as cruising.  She’s responsible for providing the best travel experience incorporating the needs of her clients.  Leonie is a powerful force in the travel business and uses her positive attitude and tireless energy to encourage her clients to invest in their self-care through vacationing.  Leonie is inspired and motivated daily by her husband, Junie Nicholls, their 5 children (Aveda, Mhaleek, Junuissa, Junique and Emmanuelle “Emma”), her mother, Valerie and grandson, Messiah.  In her free time, Leonie loves to travel, sing, dance, read, enjoy life to the FULLEST, and spend quality time with her family, friends, co-workers, even strangers

Abena was born on the beautiful island of Nevis, the sister isle of St. Kitts in the Caribbean where she grew up on a rich diet of music. She also had the good fortune of seeing music through the lens of her mother’s homeland in St. Vincent and the Grenadines. Her diverse experiences have led her to a time such as now; a time to brighten the world with her voice of hope and vision of unity for women and all people. You can learn more about Abena via her Facebook page titled Abena, her website, empressvibe.com, or her email [email protected] Trevor “Bridges” Bridgewater was born and raised on picturesque St. Kitts. His childhood allowed him early exposure to music as his dad played the clarinet and was well immersed in music and the arts.  Trevor embraced his gift wrote songs, played a variety of genres of music, and loved entertaining others. He eventually migrated to the US, where his love for music deepened and he spread his love for music everywhere creating his own island band which he also named ilan’ ban’. ilanban.com. Trevor’s care and kindness toward Abena demonstrate the type of affection and empathy many women in the arts crave. We are delighted they have both sat down with us to talk music, women, and the road ahead.

Desiree "Tracey" Venzen and Karen "Kaye-C" Crossman ae the epitome of woman power. Together, they use the lessons of the women trailblazers in their lives to help carve a path for themselves and the women who they encounter in their lives on a daily basis. They are determined to live their best lives to glorify our Creator and to bless others especially women. As seasoned career women with families and a host of other challenges, they still make time to serve others in their communities and beyond.

Desiree "Tracey" Venzen and Karen "Kaye-C" Crossman are the epitome of woman power. Together, they use the lessons of the women trailblazers in their lives to help carve a path for themselves and the women who they encounter in their lives on a daily basis. They are determined to live their best lives to glorify our Creator and to bless others especially women. As seasoned career women with families and a host of other challenges, they still make time to serve others in their communities and beyond. 

In this episode, we feature the hard-working mom, wife, Entrepreneur and Corporate attorney Ms. Charleen Francis. Here, this go-getter and phenomenal woman speaks about life, her growing business and how diligently she works to live a life of purpose. Her contribution to Platform & Possibilities ensures we continue to Inspire, Inform and Empower.

With over 18 years in the finance industry, Regional Vice President & Investment Advisor with Primerica, Mervyn J. Boone Jr. owns a Financial Brokerage in New York and serves over 2000 clients which currently has $33 million in assets under management and over $400 million of Life Insurance inforce. His office brokerage alone has 150 Licensed Agents, and 22 Registered Representatives in 14 different states and the business is continuing to grow. A native of the Bronx New York, Mervyn takes pride in providing financial services to all income groups, and all ethnicities. He believes in changing the money ethics of people across multiple communities.

In this episode, we feature the first National Calypso Carnival King of St. Kitts and Nevis, Levi Weekes also known as King Entertainer, Styler John and even Monarch. Weekes hails from Cayon in beautiful St. Kitts and Nevis. He has a special appreciation for the very strict and humble upbringing he had as a child and felt an even deeper love for his mother, who fought with all of her being to give her children a good life, despite her circumstances.  It was on his trip to Trinidad and Tobago that he truly fell in love with the Calypso art form. Imagine the fire in the eyes of a 15-year-old boy, seeing Calypso Greats like Lord Ryno, King Fighter and the Mighty Sparrow rule the stage. He returned to St. Kitts with a passion for calypso that would eventually propel him to national eminence. By his early 20's, Entertainer was known for writing and singing masterful calypsos. His hit songs "Judge Calypso" and "Outspoken" earned him the coveted National Carnival Calypso King title in December of 1971.  For 50 years, Entertainer has gone on to be an ambassador for his native land, proudly wearing his flag of service to others on his chest.  He reminds us in no uncertain terms that "Home is where the Heart is." Levi Weekes resides in the United States, having had a long and rewarding career as an electrician. We are honored to have him share snippets of his calypso journey on Platform & Possibilities

Patricia Welsh of St. Kitts and Nevis has fulfilled one of her many dreams; She has written and published her first novel entitled Finding Jane; The Love Journey. Set in Atlanta, USA, Jane and her childhood love Landon have developed an exciting relationship sprinkled with undeniable love. Jane could not be happier. Outside of her love life, her love for her friends and family is evident. Paula, a very close friend is a fixture of Jane’s life and together, they share a solid sisterhood and friendship. Jane’s love for Paula is undeniable and she tells the story of shared love between two women who greatly respect and love each other. Jane's life also features her love for Jerome, a very special friend at work who she eventually realizes is suffering from Alzheimers, a type of brain disorder that causes problems with memory, thinking, and behavior. She is disheartened by Jerome's debilitating illness but sinks into the depths of despair at the loss of the man she has invested her entire life in. Landon. Jane's journey is carefully told by the author who mixes fiction with real pieces of her own journey as a first-time author. The story of love, betrayal, and triumph. Born on the island of St. Kitts, Patricia “Pat" Welsh is the third of 4 children who grew up on an estate and had a very happy childhood. She pursued advanced degrees abroad and returned to St. Kitts and Nevis and is an Economist at the Eastern Caribbean Central Bank. She has two beautiful children and enjoys living life to the fullest and even dancing when no one is looking in the comfort of her home. Congratulations to Pat for sharing the story of Jane and best wishes for writing the remaining novels in the trilogy Finding Jane; A Love Journey.

Quandasha (pronounced Quan-day-sha) “Mzs. Quanny” Huggin is a rising American musical sensation of Kittitian and Jamaican heritage who was born in New Jersey and now calls Philadelphia home. She’s a music lover to the core who writes, sings, performs and embraces all genres of music. Be it R&B, Dance Hall, Rock, Rap, Reggae, Bachata, Soca, Meringue, Quandasha believes music is a mood that she proudly lives for. For over 2 decades, this musical genius has worked non-stop at perfecting her craft and with each song, each track, and every single performance, she continuously raises the bar. This music lover flexed her vocal muscle with her “Badness” track and has recorded many other well received singles including “Beast”, “No Wotless Performer” and “Bruk it Off.” In 2021, she produced her first album titled “Don’t Mean to Brag,” which truly boasts a blend of musical artistry and creativity. She’s a sound that turns heads, so much so that she’s working diligently on collaborating with DJ’s and other producers to help grow her music. In 2018, she released her first mixed tape called “Moods not Genres” including a mix of R&B and dancehalls. Her 2021 album shows a more polished version of Mzs. Quanny. “Don’t Mean to Brag” made its way on the Top 5 of the Reggae ITunes Chart and 23 on the Pop I-Tunes Chart. Mzs. Quanny is also quite busy because of “Don’t Mean to Brag” and she continues to focus on growing her craft and spreading her music. She promotes her music through word of mouth, ITunes, Pandora, YouTube, Spotify, Instagram, Twitter, and other social media platforms. Quandasha is a driven young woman who uses numerous tools to help grow her craft and understands the importance of using her multiple business streams to ensure she accomplishes her goals. She is planting her seeds and watching them grow. And she’s standing up believing without question that the “Time is Now,” a song she wrote to remind all of us that love, respect, and unity are desirable qualities we all need NOW if we really want to see a better world for ourselves, our children and grandchildren.

In February and June of this year, I partnered with the University of Phoenix Online to run two workshops on “The Why’s of Email Etiquette.”  Both workshops were one hour in length and the question and answer segments dived deeply into aspects of e-mail writing that complement good communication. One of the major takeaways from these workshops is that email etiquette entails adhering to principles of behavior one should display when creating or responding to e-mails, and we ought to think clearly before we write, especially if the matter being addressed is contentious. This episode of Platform & Possibilities features a ten minute exchange during the second workshop's question and answer segment held in June. Participants had a host of questions, from best practices for responding to a manager's e-mail, ways to introduce themselves to a business prospect, to how to reject a contract or how to accept an offer. We also discussed company structures and the appropriate protocol one should follow when writing to senior personnel.   Participants also received periodic reminders that how we write is a reflection of who we are. We should write with clarity, respectfully, and meaningfully, all while being mindful that good e-mail etiquette is an integral part of our personal and professional reputation. *Get smart e-mail etiquette tips or refresh your skills right here on Platform & Possibilities!! 

In this episode, we hear from Heather Archibald, a national of St. Kitts and Nevis who spent years in New York City, all the while remaining close to the pulse of her birth land. Heather is an educator, author, and social activist who returned to St. Kitts to impart much of her rich experiences abroad to enrich the lives of others, especially young writers eager to realize their dream of publishing their own novels. Heather is the author of Pregnant these Past 20 Years and Home:Home.

A truly conscientious son of the St. Kitts and Nevis soil who believes in living in the moment even amidst life’s challenges. From Cayon, to Charlotte Amalie to Virginia, he has never lost his appreciation for family or for change. He’s a former soldier and an advocate of wellness and is an avid runner who believes in the magic of movement. Seko is the brain behind the Run SKN Challenge, a 104 mile run from August 1 to September 19 that coincides with St. Kitts and Nevis’ independence. Having changed his lifestyle to embrace healthy habits, he shares his love for life with others. In this conversation, he offers many takeaways including the powerful reminder to live in the now!

Kayin Benjamin is a 10 year old girl who had to change schools in 2020 and quickly learn how to cope during the pandemic. She’s managed to survive behind the mask and she’s breaking through despite the difficulties she’s faced. Kayin is a lover of the arts and writes, paints and dances. She believes her talents and her passion for life will inspire others to be great 😊

Adriel Mckoy was born and raised in St. Kitts. She’s the product of a strict but enriching upbringing. Her parents Lester and Jackie Mckoy worked hard to raise her along with her two siblings. Migrating to the US was an opportunity for further development. Culinary arts studies opened the door to cake designing, cake sculpting and now, a full on cake making business. Today, Adriel the baker owns Sugar and Cream Cake Studio and shows no sign of looking back.

This podcast taps the stories of the ordinary, the exceptional, aspiring individuals willing to share their stories of service to others and their quest to create possibilities untold. Coreentje lives by the mantra: Live for yourself, You’ll live in vain Live for others You’ll live again Pass it on!