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

Hi ORALEE, where are your from? We’d love to hear about how your background has played a role in who you are today?
I am from a small town called Bushy Park, in St Catherine Jamaica. It’s a small rural area as the name suggests and I grew up in humble circumstances. I’m from a close-knit family, a large one. Growing up not having certain basic necessities such as electricity in my formative years made me work times harder to get out of my circumstances. I remember my Mom had to struggle and sacrifice to make sure I got what I needed. I saw her example of independence and drive and it fueled my own. I knew I needed to go hard and do my best at anything I put my mind to, which is stuck with me for life.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.

I hold a bachelor’s degree in International Relations, however straight out of University I went into banking. I did a few years in corporate and then went on to become a Manager at a Gaming Lounge and Restaurant for the past 10 years. Covid happened and I had to pivot, I was temporarily unemployed due to lockdowns in the country. I then decided to learn a skill, I went into lashing. I did a course and got certified. It was also during this time I met Dennis and he is a director/cinematographer, who saw that I wasn’t working and asked me to produce his projects.

At the time I had no experience in video production but my background in banking and management made me good at communication, organization, attention to detail, along with business knowledge. Producing provided an outlet for me to get involved in the creative process which I love! It’s an escape from my routine.

I then thought that I was wasting time with my lash certificate as after receiving it did nothing right away. I started getting the supplies I needed to start but didn’t actually do it. I was scared more than anything of failing. It was easier to show up to a job and get paid. As a lash artist, there is more intricacy and skill that is needed and the fear of messing up haunted me. I started practicing in 2021 and then took a leap of faith in 2022.

I currently still hold my management position, I am a freelance producer and I am a lash artist at JBras Beauty. How do I do all this? I still don’t know. Covid taught me not to put all my eggs in one basket a lesson learned! I had to step out of my comfort zone to learn new things so I could provide financial security for myself. To not just depend on a paycheck from an employer. At this point in my journey to becoming an entrepreneur, I’m still employed but I’m working on the exit strategy. In the meantime, I am building my Brand JBras Beauty which is inspired by my Mom. I am also becoming a more experienced producer. I am very grateful for my opportunities thus far while taking my journey one step at a time.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?

I live in Jamaica so as you touch down right in the airport there is a coconut jelly stand once you get out of immigration. We will start there. Then, of course, we have to get some food, preferably fried fish, and festival by Hellshire beach. The week would consist of a visit to Portland for a day or two to unwind. In Portland, there are waterfalls and Frenchmen Cove to visit. Then maybe move on to another parish or two such as Montego Bay and Negril. In Jamaica, there is so much to do depending on your vibe. They have to eat Jerk Chicken and ackee to name a few of our most popular dishes.

Street dances in Jamaica are a must if you’re visiting, to get to see the culture of dancehall. We also have reggae events as well. Jamaica is filled with so many unique adventures. Kingston is the pulse of the island so a lot happens in the city, something to appeal to everyone. We as a people are very creative and artistic in so many ways, so much to see and take in. Also, a visitor has to try our world-famous Devon House Ice Cream in Kingston. I love the mountains, I find peace escaping to the hills and anywhere there is a river or beach. We are blessed to have all this in Jamaica.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I’d like to shoutout Dennis Fyffe, for not only the recommendation but also the reason why I’ve embarked on my current journey. Dennis encouraged my entrepreneurial path and I’m grateful to him for igniting this new love. 

Instagram: @_juliabras

Image Credits
Credits for photos: Dennis fyffe and Kadane Cespedes

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.