In June, we are beginning a new series titled Trini’s Livin’ In Xisle to highlight the narratives, experiences and achievements of Trinidadians and Tobagonians residing overseas. The purpose of this series is to showcase these Trinbagonians and share their enunciated stories with the world!
Trinidad Immigrants (Trini’s In Xisle)
In 2017, it is estimated 235,000 persons migrated from Trinidad and Tobago to the United States, with the majority of these new Trini’s Livin’ In Xisle were “likely to be employed in management, business, science, and arts occupations (37 percent). For many Trinidadians leaving the island is a conundrum because it affords an opportunity for individual progression but at times at a personal sacrifice. Having to assimilate into a new culture is never easy especially a new culture where your racial identity is paramount to how you are perceived by the larger community.
TrinGirl A Trini Livin’ In Xisle
Jennifer Margaret Morris aka TrinGirl immigrated to the United States at the age of 15 and currently lives in Hayward, California. As the seventh child and the youngest daughter of the deceased Reynold and Delmira Morris leaving Trinidad and going abroad was exciting and on occasion overwhelming.
In high school, Jennifer dealt with classmates having a mysterious interest in her intonation. Classmates would frequently ask “say that again I love how you talk“. At that period, she did not take it as a compliment and shut down until restoring her conviction in her inaugural year of university.
Faith
Jennifer enjoys teaching about the vigour and virtue of God and believes in the power of prayer. She currently facilitates Bible Band every Friday morning at her local church in California. She also hosts a prayer service called Apollos ministry that victuals to the destitute and the hopeless, reassuring them that God is the answer and whatever stage they are in it is passing. Jennifer has travelled extensively throughout the Caribbean, Europe and Asia. Jennifer also fancies watching tennis and international movies. Her prayer is that God continues to sustain her and keeps her encouraged to do His will. TrinGirl’s Instagram handle is @saved0507. Here is her brief profile:
- Name: Jennifer TrinGirl Morris
- Migrated from Trinidad: 15 years old.
- Earliest memory of Trinidad: Age of 7 my mom leaving for vacation in the USA. Christmas we did not receive gifts we played football in the streets. Also parang on Christmas day with all the no teeth parang folks with Cuatro and box base.
- Misses most about Trinidad: The simplicity of life.
- What are you most afraid of right now: The influx of Venezuelans corrupting our island.
- The happiest moment of your Life: Praising God for His generosity in sustaining me. Travelling with Ma Morris to various countries was some of the happiest moments. She was wonderful to travel with because of her enthusiasm.
- The saddest moment of your life: My mom passing on.
- Who is the most influential person in your life: My Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.
- Do you plan on returning to Trinidad to live and why: I plan on spending more time in Trinidad living part time there to allow my spirit to reconnect with what matters peace of mind.
How to Enter?
Do you want to be featured in the Trini’s Livin’ In X-isle series? Participation only requires five (5) minutes of your time to complete the 10-question survey @ http://bit.ly/Trinis-In-X-Isle. Each week I will feature one Trini’s Livin’ In X-isle submission on TriniInXisle.
The Trini’s Livin’ In X-isle blog entry with the most engagements online will be awarded USD 50 inclusive of shipping towards purchasing merchandise on the eStore.
In conclusion, if you are interested in participating or know of other Trinidadians living abroad; share the survey http://bit.ly/Trinis-In-X-Isle link. You can subscribe to this blog to see future Trini’s Livin’ In X-isle stories.