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

Hi Jamila, we’d love to hear about a book that’s had an impact on you.

I recently read a book titled “Adultery” by Paulo Coelho – one of my favourite authors of all time. The book is about a woman who had the perfect life, but was bored with its routine; consequently developing an obsession with a teenage memory that she wanted to relive with her high school honey. At first, I really thought the book was about cheating but (I should’ve known my author better) it was really about following your curiosity as a human, being honest with yourself [and those around you] about your needs and wants, and living a boundless life without fear and regret; but at the same time, managing expectations. (To say the very least, this message was received after reaching 3/4 of the book LOL).

And that’s what I like about the book – it explains the human pressure and struggle of wanting to do and be right by ourselves & those around us. That pressure keeps us miserable and unsatisfied with life and in doing that, it gives those around us the false impression of perfection and restricts their mind about people and what we are capable of as humans. The impact it had on me was definitely patience (because I had to wait so long to realise the actual point), I should always entertain my curiosity and childlike approach to life and though it may hurt those I love and myself even, the process will make us all stronger, and in being stronger, more open to other types of life experiences. That goes for professional and personal life!

Please tell us more about your work. We’d love to hear what sets you apart from others, what you are most proud of or excited about. How did you get to where you are today professionally. Was it easy? If not, how did you overcome the challenges? What are the lessons you’ve learned along the way. What do you want the world to know about you or your brand and story?
I think what set’s me a part from others is passion, love and genuine interest for the music and creative industry and Im always willing to and helping others because I believe there is strength in numbers and collaboration – that is my approach. Im most proud of the fact that I made the decision to grow in this industry after countless fights with myself about quitting/giving up. Sometimes this industry can be unforgiving and Im so happy I work with a team and is surrounded by persons who are likeminded, supportive and well, forgiving lol. This career path and job wasn’t and isn’t as easy for me and Ive never had to fight this hard because usually my manifestations become reality, without much of a pushback.

I overcame challenges such as self-doubt, anxiety and depression by willing myself to the understanding that life isn’t complete without the downs, because you learn to appreciate the UPS more and I just really love when it Im able to do something I thought I couldn’t do – constantly challenging myself to do what was once thought as impossible.

I want the world to know and understand that I am someone who doesn’t aim to be number one or perfect; but my story is really about challenging myself to do things that I thought were impossible to achieve, be honest with myself and those around me as best as possible and that my brand, even though it is professional, I do things from a personal place because that is how I connect and relate with my clients to deliver the best final product; I believe that’s the best way to make an impact.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
My best friend is pretty chill (thankfully) LOL! Once there’s food, its a win.

Monday – I’d take her to chill out for a bit because travelling takes so much out of you these days – so I’d go to Gloria’s in Port Royal for a nice fish meal and chill by the pier for a few hours. I always love to see the children just diving off into the water (so fearless!); its great to chat with them too, you learn so much.

Tuesday – We’re into fitness, so I’d take her on hike to Blue Mountain – that would definitely take a few hours LOL. After we’ve reached the top, we’d chill for a second to catch our breath and on the way down, we’d stop by Eits Cafe or Cafe Blue in Irish Town for a nice big meal and then stop at The Habitat – par with my boss Protoje for a bit. Maybe get a little insider on some of his soon to be releases LOL.

Wednesday – Late morning; so we’d do brunch at CRU Bar, then head over to Kaya Herb House to chill, play a game of Jenga – have some conversation, then have an order of one of their amazing pizzas! (Both places in Kingston) Get home to pack for THE WEEKEND!

Thursday – Heading to Ochi (or Portland), Checking in to an awesome villa with an amazing beach view, chef on deck, pool on site. But before we arrive at the villa (in Ochi) – we most certainly have to stop at the most famous bestest PUDDIN Man (Jus Cool store). Then we’d go Rafting on the White River, horseback riding and or ATV Riding and then definitely head over to Miss T’s kitchen or Lala’s Nutmeg for a power meal.

Friday – She LOVES food LMAO – so we’d head to Stush in the Bush for a tour and a nice meal, then head back to our villa and end the night by the pool side with a nice bottle of wine and power/motivational talks.

Saturday – I think another chill but productive day – VISION BOARDS! Then dress up for the evening to have a meal & a show, so possibly to Plantation Smoke House.

Sunday – CHILL AND REST DAY – food, pool and sleep in our nice villa!

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The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
CORNY! But, shout-out to the universe – I get everything I want & more (whether good or not so good) and even if I dont get it now, I still have time to, even on my deathbed LOL. Also big shout-outs to Protoje, my friends who are always willing to help me on any project – Abigail, Davida + rest of the INDIGGO Team; The MAQUEREAU SQUAD, my real OGs, DZ Squad & the Release Team. And everyone else who helped in especially getting my brands INDIGGO Conference and Premier with Pinto Co out there. Also my family – they always encourage me and to my future PM (St Vincent), Lavern King.

Books: The Alchemist (Paulo Coelho) & Eat Pray Love (Elizabeth Gilbert)

Website: https://linktr.ee/premierwithpinto

Instagram: http://instagram.com/premierwithpinto/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jamila-pinto/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/IndiggoConJA

Other: email: jamila@premierwithpinto.co

Image Credits
Destinee Condison DACX Productions Sleek Jamaica Yannick Reid

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.