Meet Le’Sha—a rising face in the carnival scene whose roots span Jamaica, Dominica, and
Gambia. While her official journey in mas began in 2017, the seeds were planted long before, dancing through the streets of Notting Hill Carnival as a little girl. With a deep appreciation for Caribbean culture, vibrant costumes, and meaningful community, Le’Sha embodies what it means to celebrate heritage, embrace freedom, and walk the road in confidence. Whether she’s hitting Jouvert at sunrise, modelling for UCOM and IslandMas, or soaking up the Cropover sun with her crew, Le’Sha brings her full self to every moment—with passion, purpose, and pure energy.
Personal Background
1. What is your name and where in the Caribbean are you or your family from?
Hi, my name is Le’Sha, and my family are from Jamaica, Dominica, and Gambia.
2. How did you first get involved in the carnival scene? My parents would take me to Notting Hill Carnival when I was a little girl. But 2017 was when I really started to get involved in participating in NHC and playing mas. From then on, I’ve joined my family and friends on the road every year since.
3. What does carnival mean to you personally?
To me, carnival is freedom. It’s such a euphoric and beautiful moment to be a part of. Seeing hundreds and thousands of people come together to celebrate and enjoy the different Caribbean cultures is heartwarming. I truly feel that carnival is one of those few events where everyone is encouraged and can be themselves unapologetically, which is such a blessing.
4. How would you describe your cultural background and how it influences you today?
I’d describe it as rich, as there are so many cultures that I’ve been fortunate to experience. Not only do I have my family cultures, but my godmothers’, my friends, even people I’ve randomly met, they have shared so much with me. It’s so inspiring to make and retain those connections. Being able to recognise the similarities and differences across cultures is so rewarding and has helped me appreciate carnival even more, for what it is.
Carnival and Modelling Experience
5. How long have you been modelling or participating in carnival events?
I’m new to the modelling game. I modelled for UCOM twice last year and IslandMas once this year. In terms of carnival events, outside of Carnival Sunday and Monday, I attended
my first jouvert in 2021 and never looked back.
6. What was your very first costume or band experience like?
I wore my very first costume at 18 with Hotwax, and it made me feel like I was officially a part of something big and really special.
7. Do you prefer traditional carnival costumes or modern, more daring designs? Why?
I love seeing traditional costumes on the road, as they remind you of the history and the deeper meanings behind their creation. However, I love wearing the modern and daring costumes because they are just stunning. I am fully locked in with super-gemmed bodywear and big feathered backpacks. But generally, the craftsmanship and processes that go into designing and making costumes are mind-blowing.
8. Which Caribbean carnivals have you participated in so far? (Trinidad, Jamaica, Barbados, etc.)
I’ve already done St Lucia, Barbados, and Grenada. There’s more on the bucket list to tick off – Jamaica, Dominica, Trinidad, etc.
9. How do you prepare mentally and physically for carnival season?
Most importantly, I have a countdown on my phone for any carnival I’m attending to really get excited. Then it’s booking and ordering everything in advance – flights, accommodation, costumes, fetes, hair, nails, outfits, and makeup. Also, listening to soca (old and new).
10. Can you share a memorable or favourite carnival moment?
I went to Cropover and Spicemas last year for my 25th birthday with my mum and a big group of 20+ friends. It was the best trip I’ve ever had, and getting to share all of those experiences (including seeing Rihanna) with everyone, particularly my mum, was one for the books.
Culture and Identity
11. How important is it for you to represent your heritage through carnival?
It’s so important, I’ve learnt so much about my heritage through carnival. It’s a proud feeling to be able to share that with others, especially those who don’t know or misunderstand what carnival represents, as well as how they all differ in their own ways. Plus, carnival is a wonderful way for me to celebrate where I come from and express myself.
12. What challenges have you faced as a Caribbean model in the carnival or fashion world?
Me overthinking and doubting my modelling abilities in those moments, because everyone else makes it look so easy. As I’m new to this, I get so worried and stressed about posing and how I look. But I remind myself that it takes time, and practice.
13. How do you feel carnival empowers women, especially women of Caribbean descent?
I think carnival empowers women through the inclusivity that it promotes. You will always see women of all shapes, sizes, skin tones, ages, and backgrounds travelling the world to play mas. It’s a safe space for Caribbean women to be free. The fact that you can go to fetes and carnivals by yourself and come out with new friends sharing the same sentiment, that will look after you and make sure you enjoy the festivities too, is sensational.
Personally, being on the road in costume with my crew is when I feel the most empowered because we all look amazing and get to share that feeling and vibe of being the prettiest people in the world.
14. Are there any cultural traditions or stories from your island that you love to share or express through your modelling?
I don’t feel like I express any cultural traditions through modelling. However, loads of stories are shared in general conversations at the shoots and launches, which is nice.
The Future and Advice
15. What advice would you give to young women who want to get involved in carnival or modelling?
Carnival is open to everyone, so just be yourself and don’t worry. The carnival community will welcome you with open arms, regardless of what you look like or what you may be insecure about. Sometimes the thought of getting involved can be quite daunting but there is plenty of support around, and plenty of friendships to be made. Ease yourself into scene and take it from there.
16. Are there any designers, bands, or brands you dream of collaborating with?
I would love to work with anyone that would want me to model for them. One of my personal goals for the next year is to model for more bands and designers for the 2026 season.
17. What changes or improvements would you like to see in the carnival or modelling industry?
I’ve got so many for the carnival industry, but here are a few:
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- Putting a deadline on when bands can launch by
- Strictly soca for the road. No drill, rap, hip-hop, afrobeats, amapiano, etc, I don’t want to hear it.
- Bands providing more organised and seamless distribution schedules and collections.
- Making all backpacks detachable because trying to walk through the crowds of Notting Hill with a full backpack on isn’t fun.
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18. How do you stay true to yourself while balancing public attention and your private life?
To be honest, I take a lot of social media breaks because life can be so overwhelming, and
it’s help me to refocus and prioritise. I also talk a lot to my close family and friends, instead of bottling up my emotions. The past 5 years have been hectic, as I’ve been working fulltime during the day, studying at university in the evenings, and caring for my great-gran. So, I treat carnival and music concerts as a break away from the chaos and busyness of general life and trying to achieve my personal goals, as they bring me peace and joy.
Fun Extras
19. What’s your ultimate carnival must-have item (besides your costume)?
A fan because it’s way too hot and packed outside to not be carrying one. Plus, you’ll also always see me with my phone and cup in my hand.
20. If you could describe your carnival vibe in three words, what would they be?
Carefree, energetic, and that girl.
Contact/Socials
@sha.jjx
Le’Sha may be new to modelling, but her spirit is already making waves. In a world that often asks women to dim their light, she’s choosing to shine brighter—unapologetically Caribbean, fiercely confident, and always “that girl.” With dreams to collaborate with more bands, advocate for carnival improvements, and represent her multifaceted culture, she’s proof that showing up as your authentic self is the boldest move you can make. For Le’Sha, carnival isn’t just a moment—it’s medicine, movement, and magic. And she’s just getting started.
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