We had the good fortune of connecting with Kyle Chin and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Kyle, any advice for those thinking about whether to keep going or to give up?
If you are thinking of giving up I would say examine the things that matter to you most. The way you prioritize things make all the difference in how you persevere. Especially as artists, who often struggle with validation and income, focus on where your happiness and life energy comes from.

If you decide that there is a shift in the source of fulfilment then you arent giving up, you are adapting. NEVER GIVE UP…ADAPT!

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I’m a director. I have had some success directing short films of vaired Genres and I think that is what sets me apart from other Filmmakers. I have made Comedy, drama and Suspense/horror and am exploring more into action. Partnerships are the key to having creative works realized, especially in an economy where corporate and government finance for he arts is slim. I believe with the right team anything is possible and if you are dedicated to seeing your dreams realized and have the competence or talent to support that vision, others with similar minds and hearts will gravitate to you.

I just recently retired as a professional Mixed Martial artist but will still do work in the development of that industry in Jamaica and perhaps do some PT.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?

Monday, we are definitely hitting up some rivers up in Blue Mountains. We are going by ‘Pretty Close” and chilling out or going further up to some lesser known spots that are off the beaten path like Sugarloaf Hill.

Night flexes for me are pretty laid back so we can play some pool by Ambassador sports bar or just chiill at my house after we do some kickboxing training at Iron Lotus Academy.

Tuesday we could go by Di Lot or Holy Smokes for a good vibe

Wednesday is probably a good restaurant like Masala Wok or Mings Chinese. Super Heavy Wednesdays at Jangas is always way up!

Jangas on a thursday night or the Live jam by 22 Jerk is the way to go. Ragamuffin Cafe is a good option too

If I brave the streets on a Friday we probably do early bounce at Jangas then pass by Lucky 38 on the way home but mostly for the Soup sold outside!! Best latenight soup in Kingston.

Saturday is gonna be midday training then Lime Cay with my Dogs or river.

Sunday is Archery in the morning or afternoon then Dimsum at Dragon court or Golden gate

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I have many people to thank for inspiring and mentoring me on my journey. In the film world I’ve been blessed to work with generous creatives who share resources and experiences that have made the journey possible. I defintely have to thank Paul Bucknor for giving me my first PA job on a feature. Big thanks to Storm Saulter and MIchelle Serieux for producing my first real short and having faith in my ability and vision. Chris Browne is always giving our industry massive help and I have been a beneficiary like many others and I’m truly grateful. I thank my wife for supporting me in many ways in every arena I explore. In my competitive and professional martial arts career , I have to give massive love to every training partner and coach who saw a talent and wanted to give strength to it. The list must start with my Sifu, Matthew Auld who saw possibilities I definitely did not. Recovering from a rare disease using martial arts I would never have expected to be able to win tournaments and build from strength to strength but with his guidance and training it happened. Kevin Wallen and Kaserie Cassells have always given so much knowledge and energy I cant imagine winning without them. Simo Tammy Auld has offered a different kind of emotional support when the fears and anxiety ran high and I will never forget that. My support system has been significant, my teammates , family and friends have made that journey possible and I cant express enough gratitude in words.

Instagram: @afroasianjamaican, @afroasianproductions.kc, @mmajammin

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kyle-chin-36a64115/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KyleAnthonyChin

Youtube: Kyle ‘The Mighty’ Chin

Image Credits
UWI Community film project and Gattfest have rights to the personal image all other images are my own.

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutMiami is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.