Black History Month Highlight: Nadelle Lewis

Feb 13, 2020

Founder of @everbodyplayahmas, Full-Figure Model, Planner


Instagram: @everybodyplayahmas
Tell us about the Everybody Play ah Mas brand and its message/initiatives. 
#everyBODYplayahmas is a body positive movement in Caribbean carnival that showcases and promotes diversity. The mission of #everyBODYplayahmas is to encourage all shapes/sizes participate in this life-changing experience. #everyBODYplayahmas assists masqueraders with their planning and helps band leaders to execute a liberating carnival process. We circulate images and messages of positivity to ensure that the experience is indeed for #everyBODY! This movement is celebrated worldwide and continues to break down barriers and change public perception and insensitivity regarding masqueraders of all shapes and sizes.
 What’s the best part of being a business owner?
The best part of being a business owner is having the freedom and liberty to choose the path and direction you would like to go in. As the founder of this movement I have been able to work with many like-minded brands and businesses to enhance masqueraders experience. There is also a great feeling of personal satisfaction to know that you are helping others and making a difference for my fellow masqueraders. This movement builds cultural awareness, and advocates for Inclusion, Body Acceptance & Full-Figured Representation in international Caribbean Carnivals.
Any advice for the next generation of black professionals within your industry? 
My advice for the next generation of black professionals is to not be afraid to take a leap of faith. When I started my business I did not know where it would take me. Since 2014, #everyBODYplayahmas has evolved from a social media hashtag campaign, to an empowering force that has found a place in many Caribbean carnivals worldwide. This movement has helped to educate women and encourage confidence building, while proudly declaring that carnival participation does not have a specific shape or body type. We aim to inspire all women to enjoy the experience…without apology!

Which past and current black figures in history inspire you and why?
I truly believe in a quote by the late Marcus Garvey: ‘A people without the knowledge of their past history, origin and culture is like a tree without roots’. I believe it is very important for the diasporic community to be able to express the rich Caribbean culture and the art of mas. The works of Marcus Garvey to me showcased pride in the African diasporic culture and Carnival is a tradition that started during slavery. There is a lot of history in the origin of carnival and emancipation. When people are educated on the cultural knowledge of this amazing experience they are able to understand why carnival is essential to so many people. This is a time of unity, where masqueraders (both young and old) are moving in the same direction to the same rhythm. It is a beautiful, euphoric sense of freedom that everyBODY should participate in.
What does being a black woman in Canada mean to you? 
Born and raised in Toronto, Canada to West Indian parents, I was the first generation in my family to be born in Canada. Standing on the backs of some great pioneers, who migrated to this country for a life of more opportunities for there family has instilled a will to fight. Fight for what you want, fight for what you need, and fight for the ones we love. Being a black woman in Canada has forced me to be strong, physically, mentally and emotionally. The community of black woman entrepreneurs and trailblazers has grown, and is very motivational as a upcoming business. As black women, we do have to fight harder for opportunities we still preserve against the odds. #everyBODYplayahmas was created for women to be free, for that moment when we are all in costume, in unison - we can let go of societies constraints and take some time for ourselves.
Favourite Cloré Beauty product(s) and why? 
My favourite  Cloré Beauty hair line is the Cantu Shea Butter for Natural Hair. After trying many MANY products, this line has kept my hair moisturized,  full and healthy. My products I use the most are Hair & Scalp Masque's, Coconut Curling Cream and the Define and Shine Custard for my wash-and-go.
Current/upcoming projects we should know about? 
2020 will be a busy year for #everyBODYplayahmas. We will be working with several brands including: 
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