Cocktails With… Tosh Alexander aka Toshi
Style Observer (SO): How would you describe Tosh in five words?
Tosh Alexander (TA): Bold — I’m unapologetic about who I am and how I show up in this world.
Feminine — Although I am bold there is alot of softness there. I love being a lover and a nurturer.
Compassionate — It’s one of my strongest traits. I love sharing with and giving to others.
Creative — My mind is always creating and putting things together. Whether through melodies, fashion, writing, etc.
Witty — I’m a likkle feisty, I’ve heard!
SO: How did it feel sitting inside the iconic Carib Cinema and watching yourself on the screen in the movie Love Offside?
TA: It felt extremely gratifying. I was watching it with my parents who have been a part of this journey with me, so it was definitely a proud moment all around. Not to mention I had two songs in the movie so it felt like a big win!
SO: How competitive was it to land the role?
TA: Well, I did the casting and submitted it. I tend to do them and then try to forget about it so as to not get discouraged if they don’t call back. But this time they did! They also asked to get on a call and recite the lines in real time and when I did they confirmed the role was for me.
SO: What, in your opinion, gave you the competitive advantage?
TA: The character of Leah is very diva-like and, to be honest, I believe I am percieved that way. So it worked.
SO: What’s next for you?
TA: More work. Work begets work. I have been doing more castings and my new single is being released next month and there are more brand collaborations. I’ve learned to expand and embody all my gifts so I will continue to build on the momentum.
SO: Would you say that Jamaica has what it takes to become a veritable powerhouse in the global film industry?
TA: Absolutely! Firstly, Jamaica is the perfect backdrop. It facilitates all the feels and aesthetics. Moreover, the talent is boundless here, and as we speak we are building on the film industry and its infrastructure. So absolutely, with our talent, and the growing industry and support from our government, this will be another facet in which Jamaica excels.
SO: Were you able to discuss film with five screen sirens, who would they be and why?
TA: Halle Berry, Angelina Jolie, Nia Long, Julia Roberts, Jennifer Lopez.
The why…
Halle Berry: I fell in love with her character from the movie B.A.P.S., and over time have watched her grow into a very refined actress representing beautifully for black women in film.
Angelina Jolie: I love the rebel type roles she plays and just how striking and memorable her features are.
Nia Long: Her roles always represent a very real representation of an all-round fly girl. I see a lot of myself in her; her sass, her style and her character always feel like that cool big cousin I would want to emulate.
Julia Roberts: She is class! Her look, her aura, the characters she takes on; always strong-willed and witty. Everything about her is memorable to me.
Jennifer Lopez: Ever since she played Selena and had me thinking that was the real Selena, I’ve been a fan of her movies and her style.
SO: What’s your preferred Campari cocktail?
TA: Jungle Bird, a tiki cocktail made with Appleton Signature rum, Campari, and pineapple juice.
SO: Shifting gear somewhat… How would you describe your style?
TA: I would say chic and risqué.
SO: Share with us a few of your summer wardrobe essentials.
TA: Bikinis, cover-ups, mini dresses, crop tops, high-heeled sandals.
SO: What are your make-up must-haves?
TA: I’m a blush and bronzer girlie! ‘Ruby Richez’ by FENTY Beauty and ‘’Pearly Peach Glow’ bronzer by DIOR Backstage are my faves.
SO: What’s your summer scent?
TA: Bond No 9 or Gucci Flora.
SO: Outside of Jamaica which other countries are on your summer travel itinerary?
TA: For right now it’s the US. I hope to do Los Angeles, New York and Florida.
SO: What’s your preference: A night in or out?
TA: A night in! I absolutely love my bed. Once I have a glass of wine/Prosecco and a movie, I’m good.
SO: Share with us the title of the last book read.
TA: The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F…. by Mark Manson.
SO: Which song is currently top-of-mind?
TA: Tek Time, by me. The single I’m dropping next month.
SO: Finally, what’s your personal credo?
TA: Gratitude. I believe we should wake up every day with the intention, in spite of our circumstances, to practise gratitude.
Jungle Bird 1.5 oz Appleton Signature 0.5 oz Campari 2 oz Pineapple juice 0.5 oz lime 0.5 simple syrup (Gavin Jones)