I am Pauline. Whilst attending Primary School in St Thomas Jamaica, I often watched the older boys and girls dancing quadrille. Mesmerised by their movements, poise and obvious sense of enjoyment, I longed for the day when I too could dance it. Unfortunately, I was whisked off to England in the 60s, aged 10, to join my mother.

My career pathway includes working in Health and Safety, Black Education Unit and Black Supplementary Schools. I gained BA in Education and Biology and Postgraduate Diploma in Primary Mathematics. I am currently a primary school teacher with responsibility for mathematics and religious education. I am patient and kind, a good listener, a mother and grandmother. I enjoy a range of activities including singing, dancing, reading, writing, drama and helping others.

My childhood dream was realised in 2005 when I learned to dance quadrille, and later joined JÁNUKA in 2006, as co-founder. Dancing with JÁNUKA awaken the inner strength passed unto me by my ancestors, that helps me understand how my past is connected to my present – a vital part of who we are.

Quadrille links me to my ancestors’ felt pain, yet sense of fun; their fears, yet braveness; and their wisdom in navigating new experiences. I will continue to encourage young people to embrace quadrille with pride, so that when they think of Jamaica, quadrille will be up there with Reggae, Jerk Chicken and Dunn’s River Falls.