What are your earliest memories of Kingston?

During my high school years at Cornwall College I was very involved in the performing arts, as well as essay, debate and oratory competitions. I remember the trips, having to wake up early to catch the school bus which would leave Cornwall College at 5:00 am for us to beat the rush-hour traffic into Kingston. Whether it was going to the Little Theatre for JCDC festival, or to the Jamaica Pegasus or the Jamaica Conference Centre for an awards presentation or competition, it was then I learnt Kingstonians had a different accent from Montegonians, and that New Kingston, Downtown and Half-Way-Tree each had ‘personalities’ of their own.

What’s the most memorable meal that you have enjoyed in Kingston?

Brown stew fish complemented by okras, carrots, steamed bammy and mashed potatoes with cold coconut water at Gloria’s, Port Royal.

What would you do if you were mayor of Kingston for a day?

I would work with my municipal corporation to create more parking spaces throughout the town centres and install recycling bins while promoting an aggressive campaign. I’m sure many will agree with me, especially new drivers, that there are just not enough parking spaces in the city. Could we get more on top of buildings, please?

What would be your recommendations to a first-time visitor to Kingston?

As a foodie and lover of culture, I would encourage any first-time visitor to experience the sights, sounds and tastes that Kingston city has to offer, as there is always something to do and see. Go to a play or the pantomime at the Centre Stage or the Little Theatre, have high tea at the Jamaica Pegasus, lyme at CRU Bar + Kitchen, indulge in ice cream at Devon House and a curry goat patty from the Devon Bakery, most certainly have fish at Gloria’s, then visit Giddy House and learn more about Port Royal.

What legal school of thought is often bandied about in scholastic circles but lacks practicality in the real world?

Specifically in Jamaica, the whole concept of the independence of the judiciary which would mean the judiciary is fully funded, maintained and governed by itself without any intervention or manipulation by the state. However, our judiciary is still dependent on the Ministry of Justice to manage and fund many of its day-to-day affairs.

Regardless of educational level, students who are academic and extra-curricular overachievers have to maintain equilibrium by what means?

I think that academia and extra-curricular activities go hand in hand and this is balance no matter your age or grade level. However, sometimes one needs to make the time, especially if you are a workaholic, to just shut down completely for even a day and do nothing but self-care activities to rejuvenate your body, mind and soul, which can do wonders when you return to your regular programming. Also, having friends who are able to pull you away from your routine from time to time.

What next big social issue will need to be interpreted through legal lens?

The one that stands out the most for me is the increasing number of mentally challenged persons that interface with the justice system and streamlining how best to deal with them.

Are traditional occupations on the decline as Rock millennials find innovative ways to monetise their lifestyle and soft skills?

I don’t think so. While many young Jamaicans are becoming more involved in entrepreneurship, commerce and information technology for their financial empowerment, the traditional doctor, lawyer and teacher occupations are still very popular and oversubscribed. Lawyers are now a dime a dozen, literally. The challenge, however, is the lack of finances to fund their courses, prevents many from completing the ‘traditional’ programme of study and eventually go into practice.

If you had a dream case, who would be the plaintiff and who, the defendant?

I would love to represent either of two former prime ministers in a PJ Patterson v Edward Seaga case. I do like politics and while growing up respected and admired what each statesman stood for.

When was the last time you used the word ‘allegedly’ in a sentence?

This morning in my submissions before the court.