My Kingston
Karl Tulloch
Style Observer (SO): How would you describe yourself in a few words?
Karl Tulloch (KT): A confident introvert, a problem-solver, a fixer with far-reaching ambitions .
SO: What’s your astrological sign?
KT: Gemini
SO: Where would you take a first-time visitor to Kingston?
KT: I would want to expose them to Jamaica’s beauty and charm, so it would be to the hills of Irish Town for coffee.
SO: Where would you take them to eat and what would the menu offerings be?
KT: So many great restaurants emerging in Kingston, but I would invite them to my home and entertain, and prepare a meal from my limited culinary skill, probably a rib-eye steak.
SO: You have, alongside family members, been on the ground assisting many in the west impacted by Hurricane Melissa. How has that experience been for you?
KT: It has been heartbreaking to witness the devastation many Jamaicans are suffering, as many have lost everything. The rebuilding process will not be an easy one or in the short term. You can feel the tension as persons go through all the stages of grief. It is our duty to help. As a nation, this is a time for action and we can all help in different ways: Whether financial, with your time and even in counselling those who are suffering mentally.
SO: What (if any) were the negative and indeed positive takeaways?
KT: The main negative is that the living conditions pre-Hurricane Melissa were below-standard, so any direct hit from any hurricane would have resulted in this type of devastation. The positive is that we get a chance to fix the root cause issues and rebuild more resilient communities.
SO: Were you given the opportunity to assist in charting the way forward for Jamaica (post-Hurricane Melissa) what would your top three priorities be?
KT: 1) Landownership is key; it will impact the type of homes being built.
2) Remove communities from flood-prone areas to those suited for growing communities.
3) Enforce building standards to support the creation of hurricane-resilient homes.
SO: Changing gears now, as a father of two, what have your children taught you about fatherhood?
KT: Patience, patience, and more patience! I found out no two children are the same and so unique efforts are required for each.
Also, recognising that my role is to lead them, and not be led by them, as I was with my parents.
SO: Which countries are on your 2026 travel itinerary?
KT: Back to Dubai in the United Arab Emirates for the summer and China in October.
SO: Which cologne are you currently splashing?
KT: Louis Vuitton Imagination
SO: Who’s your preferred fashion designer?
KT: No preferred designer; I buy what fits and gives me the most confidence.
SO: An invite to a black-tie or casual affair?
KT: Casual, for sure.
SO: What’s your preferred way to enjoy Appleton?
KT: On the rocks with lime.
SO: What’s your Christmas wish for Jamaica?
KT: Let’s try to have record-low crime statistics, and for persons who are in a position to help, splurge on those who are without.
SO: What’s your favourite Christmas carol?
KT: All I Want For Christmas — Mariah Carey
SO: Finally, what’s your personal credo?
KT: Fix what is fixable, leave what isn’t. Greatness is a mindset; positive thoughts give positive outcomes.