Today we’d like to introduce you to LIGHT.
LIGHT, can you briefly walk us through your story – how you started and how you got to where you are today.
I was born and raised in a small town called Belle Glade located here in Florida by two Haitian parents. Growing up in Belle Glade some would say that there is a lack of resources and opportunities to succeed at a grand level, although a bit true. Due to the fact that your life could be cut short from a few things. Death and jail being two. Due to the high crime rate and outside factors.
I chose to use all the odds that were against me and the stereotype that is placed upon a kid being from Belle Glade, as motivation to reach for more than I was given.
After graduating high school, I moved to the Broward area and stayed with family and started attending Broward College. Being from a small town I quickly realized that I had more opportunities to excel in my area of interest here. I soon created friends that would later start taking pictures of the outfits I thrifted and put together.
By doing that, I soon realized that I had a passion for being behind the camera. So, I started researching how I could create something out of it. I then decided that I wanted to pursue modeling and take it seriously, so while still attending school, I began to work on my portfolio. I met a photographer by the name of Jordan Patterson who helped in bringing my vision to light.
Referring back to what I said earlier on reaching for more than I am given. I soon realized if I wanted to step outside the box and not be stuck to one look I had to move out of Florida. I then realized that New York would be the best fit. I prepared to take the visit having no friends and family that lived there, I made it happen and knew that I had to live there.
Returning to Florida with a different drive of motivation to save, create more and move to New York. There was something within me that knew that this was still all bigger than me.
In realizing that and overcoming the adversity in my life that resulted in trauma, anxiety and depression. I am now creating a platform that will help inspire others through my art. Making it be known that you don’t have to be born into wealth, you don’t have to be from a great neighborhood while having outside factors and STILL become someone you can be proud of.
We’re always bombarded by how great it is to pursue your passion, etc – but we’ve spoken with enough people to know that it’s not always easy. Overall, would you say things have been easy for you?
Not a smooth road. Some of the struggles I’ve had was the passing of my partner of three years, which led to a depression that kicked in. Trauma, growing up in Belle Glade it was only a matter of time before you saw a dead body. Walking from school one day I saw a body, blood gushing out of the men.
Now being 21 and reflecting on everything… hearing shootings, sirens, helicopter sounds every other night brought what I’m now realizing trauma, and anxiety, sometimes. And a recent struggle that I have now overcome is coming out to my parents. Something that has helped with that is therapy and meditation.
So, what’s next? Any big plans?
There’s a saying that says something along the lines of “don’t speak on something that hasn’t been accomplished yet” hahaha. So, with that being said, offering just a little teaser. I am creating something bigger than myself, something that will be around when I’m not. This will be a big change. I’m excited for what’s to come this up and coming year.
Contact Info:
- Email: definelight@yahoo.com
Image Credit:
@jordanjpatterson_
@b.lvvk
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