Terri-Karelle's story:
rejection is redirection
Dr. Terri-Karelle Reid is an island girl – born, bred and rooted in her beautiful home country of Jamaica. She earned the moniker, “Your Jamaican Girl”, when she won Miss Jamaica World 2005 as an unlikely candidate, donning natural afro curls unapologetically all throughout the competition, even after being advised to straighten her hair.
In an effort to challenge the representation and perception of black women, and inspire others who looked like her, she maintained her look for the international pageant in China, where she walked away as a Top 15 finalist, winning the People’s Choice vote for the Caribbean – all while being authentically herself.
Terri-Karelle shows that there is power in pivoting
After completing a Doctor of (Veterinary) Medicine in Cuba on a government scholarship in 2007, Terri-Karelle faced cross-cultural accreditation challenges when she returned home, which resulted in her being unable to practice veterinary medicine in Jamaica. Her dreams were crushed. Thus began her journey in marketing and management. Terri-Karelle worked as a Public Relations Executive with RISARC Consulting in Los Angeles; General Manager of the popular Spartan Health Club; and the Online Brand Manager of The Gleaner Company Ltd, where she successfully implemented innovative digital marketing strategies for the oldest and largest newspaper in the English-speaking Caribbean.
"Honour The Small roles, they lead to the bigger ones"
Taking the suggestions of people around her who thought she had the right personality and natural talent for the job, Terri-Karelle transitioned into the world of media. Without any formal training, she was invited to try radio and was eventually selected to host the most-watched live television show in Jamaica – Digicel Rising Stars, a job she still love and do to this day. This turning point led to many more opportunities over the years. Since 2012, she has had the joy of bringing energy and zest to television shows which eventually presented vast opportunities in the world of event hosting.
tERRI-KARELLE mASTERS HER CRAFT
Terri-Karelle’s talent and extremely high standard as an event host has taken her across the world gracing the stage at multi-day events and interviewing some of the most prominent figures like Hon. Usain Bolt OJ CD , IDB’s President Ilan Goldfajn and other business leaders.
Terri-Karelle Reid has demonstrated excellence consistently over the years. Her charm, wit and ability to engage audiences of all types of background, has made her one of the most well-loved media personalities in her country and Caribbean region. Her impeccable work ethic, stage presence and ability to adjust, adapt and assimilate copious amounts of information allow her to differentiate in her field.
INCREASING HER FOOTPRINT
Terri-Karelle has added TEDx speaker, podcaster and author to her repertoire
OWNING HER EXCELLENCE
Dr. Terri-Karelle Reid, the little girl from Portmore, St Catherine has demonstrated that we are not defined by what we study or what our professions are. We are defined by our ability to embrace failure, adapt, learn, grow and evolve. Her story is a reminder to others who are fighting crushed dreams, that they can create new opportunities, hone new skills and define their own lives on their terms.
YOU ARE SO MUCH MORE THAN YOU KNOW!