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

Hi Junior, the decisions we make often shape our story in profound ways. What was one of the most difficult decisions you’ve had to make?
It was staying put on the island that birthed me, after travelling and living aboard for 7 years. Returning to Barbados, was one of the most difficult decisions for me because I knew I had to sacrifice a lot of personal freedom vs I guess general freedom because Barbados is such an amazing place where I could just hang out anywhere for hours and hours without feeling an ounce of fear. As much as that is a great thing, I had to be prepared to be misunderstood for a few years and also readjust to a life that slowed down the trajectory I had for myself socially and career wise. In the end though I am really glad I decided to stay put because of all the new skills I developed out of pivoting.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
Well, I am Junior Sealy – my art crosses many areas including design, architecture, fashion, photography, creative direction and now music! I think what sets me apart is the ability to excel at all these things simultaneously. As much as I’ve started to reach a level of success in my journey, being an artist is one of the hardest ways of life if you really want to live well – especially in the beginning but also in the middle of it too, its like working for free for years to gather experience, trying new things and failing, getting up and going again fully believing in yourself each time!

Every challenge must be met with the ability to just pivot when necessary and also, the thoughts of maybe not succeeding have to be destroyed before they cloud the vision.

I’ve learned that if you keep at something, eventually you master it! In every level you reach there is another level after so its important to also take in the achievements as they come because sometimes you really forget about them too quickly which makes you feel like you aren’t doing enough.

I want the world to know that the moment that money is not an issue, my brain will help to create even more incredible things that will help others, inspire others and nurture others!

Creating is my life and im happiest when working on something – now that ive started my journey in music – its the greatest exploration of self plus I get to really create all of the worlds I wish to see!

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Since I reside in Barbados now – we will do both Barbados and Miami!

In Barbados, we would stay on the east coast a few days – go to all the incredible restaurants like Roundhouse, Zemi Cafe, Eco Lodge, Andromeda Gardens Cafe, Sand Dunes and Countryside Caterers! Of course, the east is great for hikes, dips in ocean pools, horse riding and connecting with nature – fresh coconut water and fruits everywhere! Then on the weekend we would move to the West coast of the island to party – speightstown area would be the next stay – Spots like east 111, Cherry Beach, Local and co, Reggie’s – will keep us well fed throughout the weekend as well as the many parties that pop up on that coast.

In Miami, Buena Vista/Design District area because it’s art everywhere!

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
The biggest shoutout will always be my mother – Beverley, she is the ultimate human being in my eyes, super selfless but still so selfish aware, the kindest, most caring person you will encounter. All of my journeys include her because she is always the first to support and push me to keep going. Im super proud to be her son and I continue to excel at my crafts in hopes that she can enjoy all the fruits of my labour!

Website: https://labandid.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/juniorsealy/?hl=en

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC4fdKy0v8Yv5IWx_YhXG5KA

Image Credits
Jamar silva with edits by Junior Sealy

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