Today, we’d like to introduce you to Oralee Bras.
Oralee, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
I am from a small town called Bushy Park in St Catherine, Jamaica. I grew up always outdoors and around my family. Hailing from a small community and of humble beginnings you learn to appreciate Life differently. I moved around a lot during my early childhood, and I believe that allowed me to adapt easily to any environment. This prepared me to be able to adjust to my circumstances and so I know what is to have and not to have.
My mother worked very hard to ensure that I was taken care of as she was my primary caregiver after my parents separated. This example of hard work and independence molded me as I grew and is the reason for my work ethic today. I had a front-row seat to the struggles my Mom endured, and that taught me many lessons about life.
I carry these lessons with me every day and my faith in God has also grown because of it. I trust and believe that no matter what, God is in control and I will be good. Overcoming challenges through faith and having a strong belief in self has powered me through all my endeavors.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
Life is filled with challenges always, there is no getting around them. I have faced imposter syndrome, financial hardship, self-doubt, and missed opportunities, to name a few. However, what stuck with me was faith and resilience in the midst of it all. It took a lot of reflection and trust that God is working everything out.
One example of this was being temporarily laid off during COVID-19 as the business I worked for closed due to a country-wide lockdown. I took a lash class a few months prior and had to consider the way forward as the world was in the middle of a pandemic. It was also during this time that I was introduced to Video Production and loved it.
This paved the way for new ventures, such as my lash business and working on a feature film. I had to learn how to pivot and find new ways to take care of myself and help my family. Whilst challenges and obstacles present themselves, it is important to keep an open mind and your relationship with God strong.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I like to consider myself a multifaceted creative. I am a producer in video production and film, where I have worked on projects ranging from music videos to short films, docs, etc. I have also worked as an Assistant Set Docorator on a recent feature film, which has opened up a new avenue in film for me to explore.
I also have my lash business, which I do part-time. In addition, I have been a manager of a gaming lounge and restaurant for the past twelve years in Kingston, Jamaica. I am known for my management role as well as my producer role.
Covid has taught me not to put all my eggs in one basket, and as such, my creative side has been nurtured since. My role as a producer in video production has given me an outlet to be a part of the creation of art and visuals. I am still learning and growing in this role but it is what I am most proud of. It’s the journey for me and not just the destination.
I think my experiences make me unique. I am able to adapt and adjust. This has helped me many times in my projects as a producer. The ability to pivot and find solutions on a whim is no easy feat. I credit my journey thus far for this ability.
What’s next?
It’s an exciting time for me right now and I’m looking forward to more growth and success in my role as a producer and being involved in more films. I am also looking forward to starting my family and becoming a wife and mom.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: @_juliabras
Image Credits
@the_denni
