MEET KABRENA ROBINSON
CBN: Hi ! We’d love to learn more about you, your story and what you are focused on professionally – whether it’s a business, nonprofit, artistic career etc. Please tell our readers about what you do, what you feel is most exciting or special about it, as well as anything else you’d like folks to know about your brand/art/etc.
Kabrena: Hi, I'm Kabrena Robinson—an Afro-Jamaican author, entrepreneur, mentor and freelance journalist based in Toronto, Canada. My journey began on stages across Jamaica when I was just eight years old, and by 2012 I had the honour of being named Jamaica’s Most Talented Teen, representing my country on regional stages across the Caribbean. This early exposure to the vibrant world of performance and storytelling ignited a passion in me that continues to shape my work today. Through my journalistic work, I focus on amplifying the stories of marginalized communities that are often overlooked by mainstream media. I delve into topics like social justice, race, ethnicity, culture, and spirituality, subjects that are not only central to my identity but also critical to fostering understanding and empathy in our society. My work is a blend of journalism, creative writing, and public speaking, all driven by a commitment to shine a light on underrepresented voices. What excites me the most is the opportunity to empower the next generation, especially young people from African and Caribbean communities. I lead transformative workshops and programs designed to help them harness their creativity and discover their unique voices. My three uplifting children's books are a testament to this mission, they provide positive, authentic representations of Black and Caribbean children, instilling cultural pride and self-awareness. In addition to my writing and mentorship, I'm the founder and CEO of Eva-Michelle & Family Publishing, an award-winning family publishing company. Through this venture, I help independent authors bring their stories to life, promoting cultural transmission and self-expression through the arts. My Caribbean identity is at the heart of everything I do. The rich traditions, resilience, and vibrant spirit of my heritage not only influence my storytelling but also serve as a constant reminder of the beauty and strength that diversity brings to our collective narrative. Whether through the power of the written word or dynamic public engagements, I strive to celebrate and preserve this cultural legacy, while inspiring others to do the same.
CBN: It’s wonderful to meet you! Thanks for that lovely insight. What author/specific book/podcast has/have played an important role in your growth and development and what were a few of the most valuable or impactful nuggets of wisdom?
Kabrena: One book that has profoundly transformed my journey, both personally and professionally—is The Four Agreements by Don Miguel Ruiz. This remarkable work taught me that the true path to freedom and success begins with an inward journey: the conscious decision to reshape how I interact with the world. The first principle that deeply resonates with me is “be impeccable with your words.” As someone who crafts narratives to uplift marginalized voices and empower communities, I see words as potent spells. Every sentence I write, every story I share, carries the power to inspire, transform, and bridge divides. I remind myself daily that the language I choose is not only a reflection of my inner truth but also a tool to spark positive change in the lives of others. Whether I'm writing a article, speaking at a youth empowerment workshop, or mentoring young creatives from African and Caribbean communities, I strive to ensure that every word I use is intentional, truthful, and transformative. Equally impactful is the principle “always try your best.” As a Caribbean woman, resilience is woven into the very fabric of who I am. This timeless wisdom constantly reminds me to put my best foot forward, no matter the challenges I face. By consistently giving my best, I honour not only my personal aspirations but also the rich legacy of resilience that defines my cultural identity. These principles inspire me to harness the transformative power of words and to approach every project with relentless dedication. In doing so, I aim to create narratives that empower and uplift, spark meaningful dialogue, and foster a more inclusive and progressive world. Every story I tell, every workshop I lead, is an opportunity to affirm the beauty and strength of our shared humanity. These guiding tenets remind me that by being impeccable with my words and always trying my best, I am not only writing my own story but also contributing to a broader, more impactful narrative for the communities I serve.
CBN: What steps have you taken to differentiate your brand from competitors?
Kabrena: When it comes to differentiating my brand, I believe that every facet of my business is a reflection of who I am. I don’t compartmentalize my work, I live my brand authentically in every project I undertake. Whether I’m writing, speaking, mentoring, or leading my publishing company, I see myself as the true definition of "my brand." I intentionally infuse each endeavour with my unique voice and personal story, ensuring that my authenticity is evident in everything I do. For me, standing out from competitors isn’t about following trends or fitting into a predefined mold; it’s about embracing my individuality. I thrive on the belief that we all have a unique voice, and I am committed to expressing mine fully and unapologetically. This means that every piece of content I create, every workshop I lead, and every conversation I have is imbued with the same core values of honesty, vulnerability, and resilience, traits that are deeply rooted in my Afro-Jamaican heritage.
“For me, standing out from competitors isn’t about following trends or fitting into a predefined mold; it’s about embracing my individuality. I thrive on the belief that we all have a unique voice, and I am committed to expressing mine fully and unapologetically. ”
CBN: How do you approach networking and what strategies have been most effective in building valuable connections - both virtually and in person?
Kabrena: Networking is a cornerstone of how I build and grow my brand, and I approach it with the same authenticity and intentionality that I bring to every aspect of my work. I thrive on connecting with like-minded individuals who are as committed as I am to amplifying marginalized voices, championing social justice, and celebrating diverse cultures. Whether I'm engaging in virtual forums, online webinars, or in-person events, I make it a point to show up as my true self—an Afro-Jamaican creative writer, advocate, and entrepreneur. I share my personal journey, my challenges, and my triumphs, which not only sets me apart but also invites others to connect on a deeper level. One of my most effective strategies is leveraging both digital and physical platforms to nurture relationships. Virtually, I actively participate in online communities, social media discussions, and professional networks where I can share my insights and learn from others. I consistently engage with content that aligns with my mission, and I make sure to offer thoughtful comments and genuine encouragement. This ongoing dialogue has allowed me to build a robust network of individuals from various backgrounds who are invested in the same causes I care about. In person, I seek out cultural festivals, literary conferences, community events, and workshops that resonate with my passion for storytelling and youth empowerment. I believe that face-to-face interactions build a level of trust and connection that can’t always be replicated online. I always follow up after meeting new contacts with personalized messages or invitations to collaborate, ensuring that our connection continues to grow beyond a single conversation.
We thank you Kabrena for sharing your BOLD JOURNEY!
Contact/Follow: @kabrenathewriter @evamichelleandfamily | kabrenarobinson@gmail.com | http://kabrenarobinsononline.weebly.com/
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