I am Etherline, a British born Black Caribbean woman. I am caring, creative, adaptable, innovative and people-centred. I enjoy reading, history, cooking, going to theatres and museums especially exhibitions of Black British Art. Jobs held include civil servant, careers and employment advisor.

In the late 1970s, in my teenage years, I saw quadrille dancing for the first time on a visit to St Lucia and again in the UK, by 6th formers, at my school’s cultural day. I admired the colourful costumes, the drumming and dancing. The music and drums call me to culturally and spiritually reconnect with my Caribbean roots.

I always wanted to join a quadrille group and in 2013 I met Beverley Bogle who invited me to join JÁNUKA. Since joining, I have learned a lot about the history of quadrille, the variety of dances and costumes that represent the different Caribbean islands. Above all, I’ve learnt how our ancestors danced it to keep their spirits high and communicate with each other for their survival.

I enjoy being a member of JÁNUKA – the friendships, creativity, health benefits and most of all, performing in a variety of settings. I want the younger generation to know about quadrille; its history and purpose, hoping they will take up the baton and keep this traditional cultural dance alive.