Young Professional Thia A. Lettsome has both a degree in Human Services and another in Criminology. After graduating from two universities with skills in both fields, it is a passion for art that has resulted in her settling to become a full-time artiste. Photo: Provided

Ms Lettsome said she makes art for herself and others and if she is lucky, an interest in canvas intertwines between herself and the client. Photo: Provided

For young people looking to pursue a passion, Young Professional Teia A. Lettsome urged them to never give up on their dreams. Photo: Provided

Early Beginnings

27-year-old Ms Lettsome said he has roots in the VI, Guyana, and Antigua and currently resides in Orlando, Florida but spends alot of time also on Tortola.

“Primary school was a bit of a blur. I partially went to school in Antigua and moved from there in 1st form/7th grade. I moved to New York and graduated high school in Westbury, Long Island, New York. If I can remember, I think I graduated high school in  2013,” she said. 

For University, Ms Lettsome attended and graduated from HLSCC and recently graduated from the University of Florida with a degree in Criminology. 

“Currently I am a full-time resident artist. I took the risk of doing what I love for work. It didn’t come easy, but God is showing me with dedication and hard work one is rewarded. I have future endeavors to make use of my criminology degree as well as aspire to help the youth by being a part of the very system that often undermines us. To make change you must be a part of it,” she added.

“During college, I worked at mellow moods, I paid my tuition from a 6$/hr wage. Afterward, I ventured off into management positions for Verizon and AT&T. Although I excelled at them it never felt like it was for me,“ she further shared.

Career in Art

Ms Lettsome said she makes art for herself and others and if she is lucky, an interest in canvas intertwines between herself and the client.

“I am allowed to be angry, sad or happy on a canvas and no one will know. And if they do it’s because they also feel it too but silently while looking at a piece of art.”

Teia added that the most challenging part about her career is learning how to value her time and not getting caught up in turning something she loves into a mechanical job. 

She shared that her biggest life lesson is being selfish, “Even if the word selfish is a negative connotation, you cannot give if you have nothing to give. So provide for yourself first,” she added.

Teia further shared that brother Fabion Lettsome ultimately made her enter the career of art. “He is also an artist that inspired me since we were children. But him pursuing his passion as a tattoo artist showed me that you can choose your passion and line of work at the same time,” she said.

Our Young Professional said initially, a career in law enforcement would have been ideal but as she grew older, she realised that the best way to be successful is to maximise one’s potential. “I will not leave this earth without doing just that,” she added.

“I do intend to pursue a passion within criminology; however, not to be a judge,” she said.

When questioned, Ms Lettsome said her parents and aspirations, as well as future goals, keep her focused.

“I know God has more In store for me. I wouldn’t be alive and I wouldn’t be living in my purpose if this was not so,” she shared.

Lettsome said ultimately she would like to own an art gallery and an art supplies store. “In addition, I’d like to use my status to give opportunities I fought for and pipelines that were never there for me unto others,” she said.

Parting advice

For young people looking to pursue a passion, she urged them to never give up on their dreams.

“Sounds clichè but don’t give up. The only way to see the other side is through the BS. Not around it, not under it, but through it. You miss 100% of the shots you don’t take. Don’t ever be afraid of someone saying no to you,” she shared.

Lettsome further encouraged youths to stand 10 toes down about one’s self. "If you don’t who will? Be your own support before ever seeking support,” she added.