#everyBODYplayahmas

I was born and raised in Detroit, MI. Just like my mother I've always loved dancing and music. I love to travel and challenge myself to visit at least 2 new countries a year. I recently started sewing in hope to create all size inclusive clothing. How and when did you first start playing mas? My first time playing mas was actually this past August in Toronto's Caribana Carnival What carnival experience has been your favourite (and most proud) to date? My best experience would definitely be my first time playing mas, I've been to carnival 4 times and nothing is better than actually being on di road in your costume! What are some of your must-have carnival essentials? Tights, it gives a sleek look and also helps keep everything in place. Glitter, glitter and more glitter. Describe your perfect mas experience: My perfect mas experience is good vibes, lots of love and body confidence. And most importantly whining u...

How and when did you first start playing mas?  * I was born in New Orleans so Mardi Gras is a big part of my culture. I always wanted to extend that tradition by playing mas. My first carnival was Miami in 2016. I played with Madd Colors. What carnival experience has been your favourite (and most proud) to date?  * Los Angeles carnival was the best. My costume was amazing and Extasy Mas has great vibes. What are some of your must-have carnival essentials? Monistat chafing cream, comfortable tennis shoes, tights, sunscreen, crazy glue, and baby wipes. Describe your perfect mas experience: Beautiful costume, rum, soca, gorgeous makeup, and no behavior attitude. What would you like to tell people about mas, that they may not know? It can be frustrating at times if you are from out of town and waiting to register online. People that visit the mas camp can register sooner so your favorite costume could sell out. ...

I am currently a live-in nanny pursing her YouTube/styling dreams in LA. I also love promoting self-love and confidence through my photos to all women, no matter the shape or size. How and when did you first start playing mas?  The first time I played mas was in 2016 with Hollywood Carnival. My LA family are Trinidadian and very much apart of the carnival culture. What carnival experience has been your favourite (and most proud) to date? My favorite carnival experience would definitely have to be modeling the one piece costume for Toronto’s Caribana. I was a part of Dr. Jay’s “Venice Fly Trap” section and I was extremely nervous, being one of the very few plus-size models. But the minute I hit the stage and heard everyone cheering for me, I knew I was doing something right. What are some of your must-have carnival essentials? My carnival must-have is tights...two pairs! Not only does it hold everything together and give your leg...

How and when did you first start playing mas? * THIS YEAR What carnival experience has been your favourite (and most proud) to date? * Labor Day 2018 What are some of your must-have carnival essentials? WATER! Your fanny pack, sunglasses, good fishnets, comfortable shoes Describe your perfect mas experience: The sun isn’t too hot, all the tie on pieces of your costume stays put, no one knocks your back pack, the truck is playing all the chunes and you have unlimited energy for the road What would you like to tell people about mas, that they may not know? It’s only as raunchy as you make it lol Would you change anything about playing mas in your city? They need to provide transportation back to the start point for the people in the parade. I just jumped for 6+ miles and now I have to walk all the way back to my car?! Do you have a message of encouragement for the #everyBODYplayahmas network? * We are all beautiful. Tell us about your ...

How and when did you first start playing mas? * I missed out on playing mas as a child. My mom's side of the family is Jamaican and my dad's side is Trinidadian (so IZA Trini lol)! My first time playing was in my early 20s. My supervisor, at the time, was also Trinidadian and told me that I would love it and that once I did it, I'd be hooked. I'd always know what it was but never played. AND BOYYYYYYYY was she right! 20 years later, I still play and have no intention of stopping anytime soon! What carnival experience has been your favourite (and most proud) to date? * Trinidad Carnival, hand down! Now remember, I didn't grow up in Trinidad, so the closest thing to carnival I knew was the West Indian Day Parade in NY (which is where I was raised). Working in the hospitality industry, the period around Trinidad Carnival was always busy for us in NY, so I was never able to take the proper time off to go. Fast forward to 2018...my two best friends and ...

Each Monday we will be featuring a masquerader from around the world. We want to share the stories of the beautiful masqueraders who can continue to build the online community and encourage confidence in other masqueraders. Each testimonial will show the power of positivity, as well as a celebration of women of all shapes, sizes, and body types. Each and every voice is an important one, and the more we can all lend to this conversation about #ConfidenceInCarnival, the stronger the international communication will resonate. It is my hope that the information will also be a warm welcome and invitation for other carnival enthusiasts worldwide to connect, share experiences, and build on this movement of self-love and Caribbean cultural celebration. If you are interested in being featured please email us and we will be in contact! #ConfidenceInCarnival   #everyBODYplayahmas  A body positive movement to celebrate carnivals around the world that showcase...