My Confession: Back to a 8–4
I feel guilty — guilty because I went back to a full-time job.
Yes, I said it. And just by writing those words, I feel a weight lifting off my shoulders.
Most of you may not know this, because I’ve never shared it publicly before: I am an English teacher at Morvant Laventille Secondary School — or as we proudly call it, “the best school in the world.” For almost two years now, I’ve had the joy of teaching some amazing students.
At first, I kept my teaching and my business separate. Deep down, I felt guilty — as if going back to work meant giving up on De Jeunesse. But here’s the truth: any entrepreneur who has birthed and grown a business knows the ups and downs, the self-motivation battles, and the quiet fear that sometimes creeps in.
The Challenges No One Sees
I’ll be honest — it hasn’t been easy.
My packaging costs from suppliers went up by over 100%.
During the rainy season, water seeped into my workspace, forcing me to throw out supplies and resanitize everything.
There were days of negative self-talk, weeks of unpredictable sales, and months where, as my mom would say, it was “water more than flour.”
In those moments, it felt like too much. So, I chose to take a break. And I’m so glad I did.
Rediscovering My Why
De Jeunesse started years ago, simply as a way to fund my schooling. But over time, I realized I needed to change my why.
Yes, I love teaching. But teaching also showed me that the challenges students face are heavy, and the needs in our communities are great. My passion for education and my passion for skincare no longer feel separate — they are both about service, empowerment, and creating opportunity.
That’s why De Jeunesse has a new focus: to use the resources and skills I have not just for myself, but for others. To support small businesses. To help those in need. To show that Caribbean-made skincare — whether it’s our honey and turmeric sugar scrub or our luxurious body butters — can carry a story of resilience, culture, and care.
A New Season for De Jeunesse
This isn’t the end of my business — it’s a rebirth.
By going back to a 8–4, I didn’t lose De Jeunesse. I found a stronger foundation for it to grow.
So here I am, standing in both worlds — a teacher shaping young minds, and an entrepreneur handcrafting natural skincare rooted in the Caribbean.
De Jeunesse is not leaving. Not now. Not ever.
✨ We’re here to stay.