Christian Tavares-Finson

Style Observer (SO): What’s your full name?

Christian Tavares-Finson (CTF): Christian George Louis Tavares-Finson. Friends call me Chris.

SO:What’s your astrological sign?

CTF: A September Virgo.

SO: How would you describe Christian Tavares-Finson in a few sentences?

CTF: I would say that I am a proud, hard-working Jamaican who loves my family, my country and its vibrant people, not to mention great music. Family is the core, and I love spending time with my boys doing all the ordinary things you do with young kids and teenagers – their sports games, having a great meal together, whether out or at home. My passions include football (Liverpool all the way!), cycling, and I have always wanted to serve Jamaica. Now that I have established my family and my law practice on strong foundations, this is the time for me to do just that.

SO: You were recently appointed a senator. What will you be bringing to the Upper House?

CTF:As a newly appointed senator, I am eager to serve Jamaica by learning, listening, and leading with purpose in the Upper House. With my background as an attorney-at-law, I bring a deep commitment to strengthening Jamaica’s democracy through rigorous legislative review and advocacy for laws that drive long-term development. I am dedicated to bridging the gap between everyday experiences and government action, championing proactive solutions that address root causes of our challenges, from education to economic opportunity. By amplifying authentic voices and fostering civic engagement — especially among our youth — I aim to inspire accountability and build a more inclusive, thriving Jamaica.

SO: What’s your take on voter apathy amongst young people? What steps would you take to turn this around?

CTF: Voter apathy among Jamaica’s youth stems from feeling their voices don’t matter, and I get why — many believe voting won’t change their daily lives. But voting is how we shape Jamaica’s future together, even if change takes time. As a senator, I’m committed to doing my part to turn this around by engaging young people where they are — especially on social media — through open conversations, like live Q&As or community forums, to show how their votes drive real progress. I’ll also push for education campaigns that make voting feel relevant and empowering. To every young Jamaican: Get registered, get involved, and let’s build the Jamaica you want to see.

SO: How would you describe the capital city of Kingston to a first-time visitor?

CTF: Kingston is the birthplace of so much magic, from dancehall music to Olympic superstar Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce, to some of the best food and cultural experiences in the world. But ultimately, Kingston is home to me. I would tell any visitor to enjoy Jamaica with an open mind and an empty belly because she has so much to offer!

SO: Where would you take them, and why?

CTF: If we are going out for food, I can’t lie, I think my wife is the best cook, so I love to invite people round to our house for a delicious home-cooked meal. If we are on the road, it’s hard to beat a hot patty from Sugar & Spice or a pan chicken and roadside conversation. If we are looking for a nice sit-down meal, Uncorked has great food and a team that always delivers a great experience.

I think the best thing about welcoming visitors is that you get to show them all the things that are special, but you don’t necessarily get to do as often as you would like. I would head up to Dub Club on a Sunday night for the nice vibes and views. With enough forward planning the opportunities are endless. Sumfest in Montego Bay would be an unforgettable experience. A Reggae Boyz game is a must! If we time it right, we’d hit the National Stadium for Champs to feel the energy of our young athletes. Nothing beats hearing our anthem there, especially seeing my kids stand and sing it — that’s special.

SO: As the brother of a Grammy-winning recording artiste, what more can be done to establish Kingston as the ultimate destination for concerts?

CTF: I’m incredibly proud of my brother and his well-deserved success in music, that is my artiste! Minister Olivia “Babsy” Grange has done amazing work to boost our entertainment infrastructure. The Government is working to establish entertainment zones across parishes, which will need strong infrastructure — reliable utilities, ample parking, and better traffic management. Recent major events on the north coast showed traffic is a national concern, and Kingston’s no different, especially with its residential areas limiting space. Kingston may not be the “ultimate destination” for massive concerts due to these constraints, but we could transform venues like the National Stadium or Sabina Park into world-class concert hubs with smart planning. By prioritising infrastructure and promoting Kingston’s unmatched music vibe, there is no doubt it is continuing and can continue to be a must-visit for concertgoers.

SO: What’s your favourite reggae song?

CTF: This is like asking which is my favourite child so I can’t give you one song. But as far as my top five artistes, in no particular order:

• Bitty McLean

• Junior Gong

• Chronixx

• Lila Ike

• Sizzla

I can’t leave out the legend Bob Marley, so I gave you six, out of my top 10, ha!

SO: Do you cook? If so what’s on the menu?

CTF: To be honest, I am “well active” around the grill. So, anything from chicken to fish to lamb, a me dat!

SO: And what are you drinking?

CTF: Appleton Estate Stormy Valley

SO: Share with us the title of the last book read.

CTF: The last book I read was Upstream by Dan Heath — an excellent book, I would recommend everyone read it. The book looks at root-based solutions to problem-solving.

SO: Share with us a few of your creature comforts.

CTF: My day feels incomplete unless I can enjoy my cup of coffee with my kids in the morning.

SO: What was your last bit of retail therapy?

CTF: I wouldn’t say I really participate in retail therapy, what I try to do is buy what I need and make sure that it gets my wife’s stamp of approval.

SO: Which cologne are you currently splashing?

CTF: My go-to scent is currently Creed Vetiver.

SO: Finally, what’s your personal credo?

CTF: As a father I really try to instil in my three boys the value of being service-focused, respectful, and dedicated. For me, I do my best to lead by example so I can leave Jamaica a better place than I found it.

(Photo: Garfield Robinson)

Appleton Estate Stormy Valley (Photo: Garfield Robinson)

Upstream: The Quest to Solve Problems Before They Happen by Dan Heath