I am Jean, a British born of Jamaican parents. I lived in Jamaica between the ages of 3 and 9, where I learnt, at primary school, to sing and dance to Jamaican folk- songs. I am a kind, supportive, sociable, approachable, and trustworthy. I am currently a Personal Banker for over 50 years. My hobbies include dress making, gardening, interior design, singing and dancing, listening to music and exercising.

My first experience of quadrille was in 2006 when I was invited to see a group of nurses preparing for a concert. I was captivated by the discipline of the dance and the old time music. I found it engaging and mesmerising. I love dancing, so did not hesitate when asked to be a co-founder of JÁNUKA quadrille dance group in 2007, and to make our beautiful costumes.

Quadrille is part of my Jamaican heritage and I am proud to showcase and promote it in a positive way with other like – minded people. When I dance the quadrille, I feel empowered knowing that my ancestors learned and danced it in defiance. I try to reflect their freedom of expression and style. I love telling “our story” of how our ancestors survived enslavement through dance. I want to keep this story alive as a legacy for future generations.