Beautiful and immensely talented, Trinidad and Tobago Soca star on the rise, Jalessa Lazarus is set to perform in the upcoming semi- finals of the Junior Soca Monarch competition. ‘Waistline,’ a track written by Jason ‘Shaft’ Bishop and produced by Millbeats Entertainment, hears the 14-year-old speak on youths her age enjoying carnival, albeit without the vulgarity. She is conscious and smart. In fact, now being tutored at a private secondary institution, Jalessa balances her budding music career with academics and other performance art subjects that she enjoys. 

“I enrolled Jalessa in a private secondary school when I realized how tiring it became for her with 18 subjects. Now she has the flexibility to do what she enjoys doing, and focuses on four primary subjects,” explained her mother, Phylicia. The young entertainer’s family has been extremely supportive of her pursuits over the years. “As a parent, I felt it was important for me to step up and do what was necessary for my child’s wellbeing. She is enrolled in guitar, vocal training with Tiffany Paul, piano lessons and at dance with Xtreme Dance Academy as well,” said Lazarus. 

For Jalessa, the journey continues to be an exciting one. Surrounded by her musical peers like Yung Kymani, Wizabella, Zachary Ransom and others, Jalessa says the energy is always positive. “We have each other’s back and no matter what; we know we are all winners,” said the Arima born youngster. Beyond this, Jaleesa is looking forward to the release of a new collaborative single done with another youngster in the business. “I’m just looking forward to performing for audiences, sharing my talent and partaking in the competition,” she said, explaining that her desire is always to do her best and become better than she was before.

Coached in piano and guitar by Kevin Millien, Jalessa Lazarus is working her way into the world of music in a dynamic way. Her strong personal ambitions, strengthened by the love and support of her family, pushes her to new heights annually. “I’d like to work with Preedy and Patrice Roberts one day,” she said, noting that along with Soca artiste, Voice, these two singers are in fact, her influences in music. 

Amid ongoing concern over school bullying in Trinidad and Tobago, and across the world, the young entertainer says she hopes this can be addressed with intention by authorities. “Jalessa was the victim of bullying as a child. Her father died before she was born and she was harassed about it at school,” said her mother. “What I did then, was reassure my child of her worth and I explained that bullies simply need love.” 

On February 23^rd, Jalessa will be a part of a meet and greet event at Solange Fashion, East Gates Mall, Trincity. “It’s an opportunity for kids her age and younger to come out and interact with her,” said her mom. For Phylicia, the support and earnest encouragement of her child, comes second nature. “I encourage every parent who seen a talent in their child, to push them into their purpose. Do not wait until they are older. Support them and do it now,” she urged, highlighting that gifts always make way for those who possess them. 

As the Carnival season in T&T heats up and Jalessa prepares for the finals of the Junior Soca Monarch competition on February 25th, she is anticipating the support from all of T&T. “I’m as ready as I’ll ever be and I’m very excited to once again be a part of the carnival experience,” said the young singer. 

For more on Jalessa, follow her on Instagram @jalessa_lazarus.