Jamaican model Tyson Beckford (best known as Ralph Lauren’s front model for the company’s Polo line of male sportswear), actor and host with fellow supermodel Niki Taylor on the television channel Bravo’s Make Me a Supermodel, is chilling at The Carlton Savannah, Port of Spain, Trinidad. He’s in the twin republic as weekend host for Antilia Inc, the entertainment brand’s ultimate lifestyle weekend experience. Tyson, however, has Kingston, Jamaica on his mind.

What do you miss when you’re not in Jamaica?

Spending time with my family, especially popping over to Morant Bay, St Thomas to kiss my grandmother ahead of heading to Boston for some of the delicious jerk chicken.

What keeps you so humble?

I surround myself with people who are humble and like me want success.

And your thoughts on the current situation in Kingston?

I’m aware of what’s going on…I mean I know those people…I know the struggle. I want to say this to those in the struggle: “Stay strong, stay positive, we have as a nation weathered many a storm.”

What’s your next project?

Movies! Definitely more movies like the multi-award winning Kings of the Evening with actress Lynn Whitfield.

I also want (part of my five-year plan), to get into organic farming with my family. I’m convinced that this untapped wealth will be bigger than tourism.

There is too, my recording and editing studio.

Whose music are you enjoying right now?

I’m feeling Maxwell as well as Sade.

Share a few of your favourite places in your Jamaican Black Book

Well I like to ‘slip’ into the Rockhouse Hotel, Negril and Round Hill Hotel & Villas.

What’s your philosophy?

Live hard, play hard and keep the brand # 1