We had the good fortune of connecting with Janet Young and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Janet, what’s the most difficult decision you’ve ever had to make?
To divorce my ex husband and raise my son without him being in his life. I am blessed to have my son AJ. Sometimes I think he is so much more than I can handle, but he is the sun that warms my heart each day. Being biracial is not easy for my son. He has to deal with the racial stigmas along with his very distinctive name due to his father’s nationality. I’m Jamaican, and my son’s father is Palestinian. As the first son, he has his father’s name, Jihad. The first and most challenging thing I had to do for my son was to fight to keep him after his father and I got divorced. I put my life on the line and walked away with my son; I will never be sorry. If I had to do it again, I would do the same. I’ve tried my best to be a good role- model for him. But it doesn’t matter how hard you try with your child/ children; they all have their personalities. He’s now in his early twenties, living independently and taking care of himself. I’m very proud of my son, and I will always be there for him through thick and thin!! He’s the miracle I thought I would never have, but God smiled at me and gave me incomparable joy.
My hope and dreams for him are that he will dream big and grow into them. Then, when he falls, I hope that he’ll pick himself up, dust himself off and try again. He’s a wonderful son. I would love to see him as a father, husband, and grown man, but more than anything, an exceptional human being. I’m not perfect, so I’m not looking for perfection from my son. Instead, I want him to live his truth, respect himself and others, work hard and intelligently, and never be ashamed of his name or heritage.
AJ, the day you were born, I felt like I could fly. Every time I look at you, my love, I still get that feeling, even when you’re driving me crazy (smile). I’ve got your back, baby boy; I got your back. You’re smart, handsome, intelligent, and so independent. Just to hear you say my name lights up my world! My name is Mom!! I love you, my son.
What should our readers know about your business?
Caribbean Medley is a naturally flavored, healthy organic juice high in vitamins with powerful antioxidant properties. It will help boost your immune system, tantalize, and quench your thirst, leaving you wanting more. They’re four delicious flavors: Sorrel and green tea blend, Pineapple ginger and ginseng, Fruit Punch, and watermelon and lime (Melonade). The company was founded and established by Janet Young in 2019, and Co Own by Sharon Corinthian.
What set me apart from others is my determination, my never-give-up attitude, and my willingness to learn from my failures and allow them to propel me into my success.
I’m most proud of where I am today in my business and that my brand is becoming recognizable by people all over.
Overcoming the challenges was not easy. I got to where I am today because of taking risks, being ambitious, and working hard and smart.
It was not easy to keep going, especially financially. I have dealt with a lot of setbacks in my personal life.
I was determined with the help of my support system. I’m also am a strong believer in God, so I held on to my faith and moved forward.
One of the greatest lessons I’ve learned along the way is to never give up on myself. And that there will always be tomorrow for me to start over.
I would like the world to know that we’ve only just begun, and we’re here to stay. I say, “look out world, Caribbean Medley Organic Juices will be known and consumed all over the world.”
What I would like people to know about me is that I am more than a survivor; I’m a conquer!! I have the DNA of Jesus Christ.
If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
My favorite sport is Tennis, we haven’t attended a tennis match in a while, because of the pandemic. If my best friend was visiting, I would take her to Gigi’s Cafe for shrimp and grits, 15th Street Fisheries for her favorite sea food, or Dukunoo Jamaican Kitchen for the best Jerk Chicken. And dance to some sweet reggae music, then on a Saturday nigh we would hang out at home listening to the one and only Tanto Irie on Hot105fm, Reggae Runnins, while drinking rum punch.
Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I credit my success to my work ethic; Working hard, being intelligent, persistent, and willingness to learn as our business grows. Our loyal customers and friends continue to support us, and the making of a great product also contributes to our success.
Our juices are organic and naturally flavored with fresh fruits. It matters to us that we put good things in our bodies, so if we can help others by making Caribbean Medley juices healthy, then that is what we’re going to do. My business partner and friend Sharon Corinthian and I dream that Caribbean Medley juices will be in Supermarkets all over the World!! So, to us, giving up is not an option.
There’re so many special people in our corner, helping us grow. One of the hardest-working man on radio, and in the entertainment business, is our dear friend Tanto Irie from Hot105fm/ Reggae Runnins. This man has opened doors for our company, and for that, we thank him. Many others, especially our customers, like Island Style Bakery in Palm Beach from day one. Thank you so much, everyone. As for my inspirational writing, my first book is on Amazon Blessings Like Raindrop! The sky is not the limit; I’m just getting started. I am looking beyond for greatness.
Website: https://reggaerunninslive.com/focus/
Instagram: https://instagram.com/medleycaribbean?utm_medium=copy_link
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/janet.benjamin
Other: https://instagram.com/janetahmadyoung?utm_medium=copy_link https://instagram.com/blr_inspirational_book?utm_medium=copy_link