What’s your middle name?

Keboni.

How would you describe Tafari in about four sentences?

Tafari is a versatile professional with expertise as an MC, salesman, advertising agent, and Airbnb host. I bring energy and charisma to every event, connect buyers with high-quality vehicles, help grow brands through innovative marketing strategies, and provide an exceptional hosting experience at my luxury Airbnb property. My diverse skill set and commitment to excellence fosters meaningful connections and drives success in everything I do.

What are you drinking?

TF: Appleton Estate 8-year-old Sour.

How would you describe the driving experience in Kingston to a first-time visitor?

For a first-time visitor, it’s a bit of a love-hate experience. The “love” comes from the fact that many places are close together, so you don’t have to travel far. Google Maps is about 90 per cent reliable, and in Kingston, traffic lights are more likely to be obeyed compared to other parishes. Plus, if you’re lucky, you might spot some of the most exotic cars in the country.

The “hate” side is that the roads can be in poor condition, with some areas suffering from potholes and uneven pavements. Taxi drivers can be a major challenge as they often stop suddenly in front of your vehicle without signalling, increasing the risk of an accident. Traffic is also a nightmare and [it] can sometimes take an hour or more to reach your destination. However, if you’re aware of these challenges and can find ways to navigate them, you should be fine.

Where in your opinion is the best driving experience to be had?

Personally, I would highlight the toll roads, as they offer well-maintained, smooth surfaces with clear white lines, clean pavements, and the added benefit of allowing you to enjoy Jamaica’s stunning natural scenery.

Were you given the opportunity to further enhance the city of Kingston, what are a few and indeed immediate tasks you’d undertake?

I would elevate the social and shopping experience by creating modern, world-class shopping malls where Jamaicans can enjoy vibrant social spaces and indulge in a premium shopping experience, similar to what they would find in first world countries. Since not all Jamaicans have the opportunity to travel abroad, I would aim to bring that luxury experience to them.

I would also create an amusement park where parents can bring their kids to enjoy exciting rides and experience something different from the usual, like exploring parks or visiting a zoo to see animals.

What’s top of mind for a woman when she is purchasing a car?

For women, key considerations are size, safety, and price.

• Size: Women often prefer SUVs over sedans, as they offer a greater sense of safety due to their height and durability, which is ideal for navigating Jamaica’s road conditions.

• Budget: Women tend to seek the best-looking and largest vehicles while still prioritising affordability.

• Practicality: Women want a car that offers ample space to comfortably transport their family, while also providing enough trunk space for luggage, groceries, and other needs.

And conversely, for men?

Men are typically more focused on technology, specifications, appearance, fuel efficiency, and performance.

What are the 2025 cars of choice?

Based on my observations and the requests I’ve received, I would say the most popular models are the Kia Seltos & Sonet, BMW X6 & X4, Honda CRV & HRV, MG ZS, and Audi Q3 & Q5.

Why? Buyers have varying preferences and budgets. Some prefer premium vehicles, while others opt for more affordable, low-key options. Additionally, most of the leads generated through the ATL platform have been for these models.

Black-tie or jeans and a T-shirt?

Both!

An evening in or out?

Out.

Live show or surround sound?

Surround sound.

Last movie seen?

Red One, a Christmas movie starring Dwayne Johnson popularly known as “The Rock”.

Finally, what’s your personal credo?

My personal credo is: Aspire to inspire before you expire.

Tafari connects buyers with high-quality vehicles.

Tafari Forbes, entrepreneur & automotive salesman (Garfield Robinson)

Appleton Estate 8-year-old Sour (Garfield Robinson)

Appleton Estate 8-year-old Sour

Audi Q3 & Q5.