Kim Angoy is the embodiment of working hard for the life you want. Her lifelong love of art has led to a creative professional path from working as an interior designer to founding one of Barbados’ most recognisable swimwear brands, Suga Apple Swim. Having grown up working various jobs within her family's businesses, Kim developed a deep work ethic and a clear understanding of what it takes to run an enterprise. She credits her family's unwavering support as part of her success, acknowledging the village that helped raise and guide her throughout her journey. Kim applies the village mentality to her business, emphasising collaboration and trusting other Bajan creatives’ input in bringing her visions to life.

Her family’s influence also shaped her personal life. Kim loves being a mom to her two boys and a wife to her husband of 14 years. She ensures her family comes first, regardless of the professional ventures she undertakes. This is a major life lesson she learned from her late father, a remarkable man who continues to be her hero and role model.

Tune in for an episode chock-full of gems where we discuss the importance of preparation in managing a work-life balance, not living in fear of what you want in life, and how her brand has become synonymous with empowering women.

Follow Kim on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kimangoy/

Follow Suga Apple Swim on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sugaappleswim/

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This season is made possible in part by the Cultural Industries Development Fund of the National Cultural Foundation of Barbados

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Damian has earned an impressive list of accolades throughout his career, including:

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Caribbean Chef of the Year 2016

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Barbados Chef of the Year 2016 and 2018

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Seafood Chef of the Year 2017

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BHTA Pastry Chef 2019

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NIFA Chef of the Year 2016

A pioneer in Caribbean cuisine, Damian's journey began as a troubled student at St. Michael's school, where a Food and Nutrition class unexpectedly sparked his culinary passion. His supportive teacher's belief in him proved transformative.

After studying abroad, he started at The Cliff restaurant handling basic prep work, learning the value of earning respect from the ground up. His career flourished with the opening of Cocktail Kitchen, where he prioritizes hiring local culinary students.

As a feature chef at the Food and Rum Festival since 2017, he promotes Barbados alongside renowned chefs who inspired him. Despite his success, he stays grounded - admitting to loving chicken nuggets and being candid about kitchen pressures and holiday sacrifices.

Known for his shy nature and authentic Barbadian accent, Damian remains true to himself. He's now expanding his horizons with a new Mediterranean-Caribbean fusion restaurant, while advocating for aspiring chefs to understand both the passion and sacrifices required in the culinary world.

His story exemplifies how determination, humility, and staying authentic can transform a challenging start into culinary excellence.

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This season is made possible in part by the Cultural Industries Development Fund of the National Cultural Foundation of Barbados

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Faith Callender has taken the Caribbean music industry by storm. For the last ten years, she has worked tirelessly cultivating her sound and talent, evolving into a charismatic performer on and off the stage. Her bold fashion style makes a head-to-toe statement, meticulously curated from striking hairstyles to artfully polished nails and flawless makeup. Faith’s career has fueled her love of travel, allowing her to share her passion for soca music and representing Barbados anywhere she goes. In 2024, she was nominated for and performed at the Caribbean Music Awards and garnered another nomination in 2025. Faith's success is a testament to the value of hard work, and her efforts have clearly not been in vain.

While her hard work has brought about significant recognition, the journey hasn't been without challenges and occasional scrutiny. Struggling with the limitations that come with being an artist in the Caribbean, Faith has had to keep faith in herself, her support system, and God to keep her grounded. Through being intentional with her life and practicing self-reflection, she has been able to remain unapologetic about her work and way of life. Faith continues to be an example for others to stay true to themselves and put their all behind anything they do.

In this episode, we discuss finding confidence, trusting the process, and some of Faith’s favourite books that helped elevate her mindset.

Follow Faith on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/faithcallender/

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This season is made possible in part by the Cultural Industries Development Fund of the National Cultural Foundation of Barbados

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Chapters

00:00 Trailer

01:37 Intro

02:05 Welcome, Family

09:52 Balancing Business

22:29 Staying Driven

29:21 Finding Joy

36:40 The Power Behind It

45:21 Having Different Perspectives

56:24 New Gem Dropping

58:05 What's Next?

As the Queen of Soca, Alison Hinds needs no introduction. Her pitch-perfect vocals have continuously enriched the genre since the 1980s and her zestful live performances can energize any fete. Her time in the iconic band Square One helped mould her as an artist and performer, working with a shared determination to bring an unforgettable experience into any studio, club, or stage they stepped on. After decades of significantly contributing to the music industry, particularly in the field of soca, Alison was awarded an honorary Doctor of Letters degree from the University of the West Indies as well as the Elite Icon Award by the Caribbean Music Awards.

But becoming a queen is no easy feat. Being naturally introverted, Alison had to venture out of her comfort zone to learn the value and strength of having confidence in what you do. As a working mother traveling the world, a significant amount of family time was traded for the exhilarating reality of a global career, further showcasing Alison’s unwavering commitment to her dreams. Her years of dedication and sacrifice have taught her invaluable lessons that she openly shares with others. Working as an activist and motivational speaker, Alison inspires people around the world, particularly women and girls, to remain dedicated to their journey and to always stay true to your heritage. Because no matter where she may roam, Alison always reps her island home.

Tune in for an episode full of laughs, nostalgia, and learn which of Alison’s songs is one of Rihanna’s all-time favourites.

Follow Alison Hinds on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/alisonhinds/

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A candid conversation between Alex Jordan and Matthew of "Gems From Friends" during a season break. They reflect on the impact of a previous episode, discussing its resonance with viewers, particularly women, on topics like aging, race, and societal pressures. The discussion then broadens to critique social media's negative influence, especially on youth and body image, drawing parallels to addiction and a loss of real-world engagement. They also analyze cultural issues in Barbados, including dietary habits and a car-centric lifestyle, contrasting it with healthier approaches. Ultimately, the conversation touches on parenting in the digital age and concludes with a celebration of Barbadian culture and personal joy.

When Last has there been a deejay, event promoter, graphic artist, and record producer all rolled into one? Jus Jay King has taken the world by storm releasing hit after hit and producing some of the biggest events in Barbados and across the globe. Always going against the grain, Jus Jay kept his Mind Off naysayers and pursued his own unique path. Dancing and singing at school pageants was the start of his creative journey and the development of his musicality. Transitioning to deejaying went hand-in-hand with event promotion and his skills as a graphic artist. From there, Jus Jay’s musical mastery naturally progressed to producing original music, pioneering a new sound for soca.

Despite having performed for large crowds and collaborating with some of the region's most celebrated artistes, anxiety has been a constant presence throughout Jus Jay’s journey. However, learning to relax in the moment and genuinely loving the creative process helps him stay centered and cope with any Brain Freeze he may have. He emphasizes to his mentees that genuine enthusiasm is crucial for success; do things for the right reason and make sure your heart is in it.

Tune in for the final episode of Season 4 where we discuss the importance of staying curious in your journey, the inspiration Jus Jay finds in Rihanna, and why he’s ready to say Bye x2 to deejaying.

Follow Jus Jay on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jusjayking/

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With titles like actor, singer, stylist, motivational speaker, social media star, and CEO of multiple businesses, Ahknaten Burrowes is a creative entrepreneur magnate with an unmatched confidence. He has grown his brand to be synonymous with quality and luxury by being intentional with his goals and rising above any hurdle that comes his way. And no matter what avenue Akhnaten goes down, he continues to bring others with him, uplifting and inspiring other creatives and community members.

Akhnaten attributes his continual success and growth to God's favor. Through divine grace and protection, he has been able to stay focused on his path and develop a purpose that extends beyond just himself. Akhnaten continues to be a living source of encouragement, reminding us to always strive for personal excellence. His biggest fulfillment comes from collaboration and helping others. He believes that surrounding yourself with people who understand your passion and support your personal journey will help keep you grounded and focused on your goals - especially in moments of crisis.

Join us in this motivational episode where we discuss obedience and faith, growth through discomfort, and Akhnaten’s journey to becoming the Bajan Tyler Perry.

Follow Akhnaten on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/akhnatenburrowes/

Check out his concierge business ToniAnn Lifestyle Services: https://www.instagram.com/toniannlifestyleservices/

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Dr Kevin Greenidge is an inspiration to Barbadians everywhere. His ability to dream carried him throughout his career, from starting as an intern at the bank almost 30 years ago to becoming the Governor of the Central Bank of Barbados. Nevertheless, the road to the governorship was not a smooth path. Dr. Greenidge persevered in his academic pursuits, working various jobs in between obtaining his degrees, to ensure his education matched the standard of his aspirations. With each job he had, whether it was teaching, selling insurance, or fixing phones at the telephone company, Dr Greenidge aspired to do more. Once he found his passion in economics, he pursued it with relentless ambition.

But before he was Dr Greenidge, Governor of the Central Bank, he was just Kevin, a young boy growing up in a children’s home. Yet, he never let his background hold him back. He believes you have to embrace your past, go for what you want, and cultivate the boldness needed to get through life. Above all else, keep your ability to dream and nourish your inner desire to widen your horizons.

Tune in to this engaging episode where Dr Greenidge discusses the importance of finding your passion, nurturing your dreams, and working hard to achieve them.

Follow Dr Greenidge on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drkevingreenidge/

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