I am Lorna. I came to UK from Jamaica in the 60s, to join my family, aged 8. I have 2 daughters and a granddaughter.

I achieved a Diploma in Law in the 90s and worked as a Legal secretary/Office manager at the Law Society for 28 years. I am now semi-retired, working as part-time administrator in the NHS.

I am friendly, reflective, empathetic and trustworthy. I enjoy socialising with friends and family, travelling, gardening with my granddaughter and dancing the quadrille.

I heard about quadrille in 2017 when my sister Grace arranged for JÁNUKA to dance at our mother’s 80th birthday party. Everyone enjoyed their beautiful costumes and elegance.

I joined JÁNUKA in 2022. Weekly practice sessions are fun and great for keeping fit. I like interacting with people from different walks of life who are enthusiastic and committed. I especially love the carefree feeling I get when dancing to Mento music.

Quadrille is meaningful, disciplined, synchronised and demands togetherness. I learnt that our ancestors danced it for their entertainment and to support each other in their determination to survive; just as we support each other now, when we dance.

I am proud of JÁNUKA’s achievements and want to continue dancing and learning. I hope my children and grandchildren will feel empowered learning about our ancestors’ strength and resilience and be proud of my effort to promote our culture.