Did you read Carlene’s story? She is the kind of woman who defies labels. By day, she works in radiology, up long before the sun, putting in the kind of grind that pays the bills. But outside of scrubs and scanners, Carlene is a vibrant force of nature: a model, beauty enthusiast, and the proud daughter of West Indian roots who isn’t afraid to call herself “greedy” when it comes to food.
Whether she’s reminiscing about her tomboy childhood playing football with the boys or talking about her admiration for Canadian Fashion Model Winnie Harlow, one thing is clear: Carlene is a mix of strength, heart, and hustle. She’s funny, emotional, and unapologetically herself. Here are some fun facts about Carlene (but don’t forget to read her story here).
What was your favorite toy as a kid?
Honestly, I don’t think I had a favorite toy. I was a big tomboy growing up, and most of the kids on my block were boys. It was always me, Arlene, and my next-door neighbor Nia—who I basically considered my little sister—hanging out with the boys. We were always outside playing football, basketball, whatever the boys were doing, we were there too. I don’t remember being attached to any toy in particular, but I was super outgoing and athletic. Anything active, I was into it. If I could get my hands on it, I was doing it.
Were you an outdoorsy kid?
Absolutely. I was definitely an outdoors kid. That’s where you’d find me.
What’s your favorite meal?
I’m greedy—I love to eat everything! But if I had to pick a favorite, I’d say I’m a big rice and peas girl. I’m West Indian, so I love all things West Indian. Bread, rice and peas, and gravy are essentials for me. I stopped eating meat about eight years ago, but before that, I loved curry goat, oxtail, saltfish, and of course, fried dumplings. I’m a picky eater, but I still eat a lot. Go figure!
What’s something people would be surprised to learn about you?
That I’m emotional. I think people would also be surprised to know how funny I am. I cry for everything—TV shows, commercials, you name it. And believe it or not, I can actually sing. I can hold a note. Most people assume I can’t, but I can hit a little “me, me, me, me, me” if I need to. I try!
Now that you’re in the beauty and fashion world, what’s a beauty product you can’t live without?
Lip gloss or lipstick—I always have one in my bag. Right now, I’m obsessed with Winnie Harlow’s lip balms. The casing ones? Love them. They’re honestly my best friend at this point. I keep one with me at all times.
You and Winnie should do a campaign together!
I’ve said that too! I’m going to speak it into existence. We need to make that happen.
What’s a typical day like for you?
I work in radiology because, you know, bills have to be paid. My shift runs from 6:00 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., so I’m usually up by 4:00 a.m. After work—if I’m not doing overtime—I hit the gym. Gotta keep the body right, especially for summer! Then I come home, eat, and rest up to do it all over again. If I’m not modeling, that’s my routine.
If you could spend a day with someone famous, who would it be and why?
If it’s a woman, I’d say Winnie Harlow. I love her spirit—she’s down to earth, West Indian like me, and we both have vitiligo. I’d love to see what a day in her life looks like and just learn from her.
If it’s a man… okay, if I’m being honest, Aaron Pierre. I think he’s so fine! But career-wise, I’d choose Will Smith. I’d love to get advice from him—just talk to him about how to navigate the industry and better my career. He’s been through so much and is still standing strong.
What’s your least favorite chore?
Washing dishes. I hate washing dishes. But at the same time, I can’t stand seeing dishes in the sink. It’s a lose-lose!
What are your biggest pet peeves?
Oh, I have a list! I can’t stand when people eat with their mouths open. Or when they sneeze or cough and don’t cover their mouths. And liars—ugh. I cannot deal with liars. You’re too old to be lying. That’s a big pet peeve of mine.
What do you hate most about adulting?
Bills! I want to go back to being a kid. Adulting is a scam—we were so pressed to grow up, and now it’s like, for what? I’m always on Zillow trying to find a $5 house. Where’s that at?
What are you most proud of?
Not giving up. I’m proud of my resilience. No matter what I’ve been through, I’ve kept going. That inner strength has gotten me to where I am today, and I’m really grateful for that.
Carlene brings joy, passion, and realness to everything she touches. She reminds us that you can be many things at once—and that staying true to who you are is ALWAYS the move.
Vimbai E. is a content marketer, ghostwriter, and the founder of The Weight She Carries. With hundreds of articles and stories publishing online, in print and for broadcast, her love of language and storytelling shines through every piece of writing that bears her name.