Hi, I’m Marla-Joy.
Yes, Marla-Joy!
Sometimes “M-J,” but never just “Marla,” and a pretty fantastic name even if I weren’t biased!
A bit more about me:
Arguably the most important thing, I love food (the “good” is silent, but implied); it might come up. I’m a relatively recent International Development postgrad putting out feelers for a PhD in Social and Public Health – want to read my research proposal? Get in touch! Also a social entrepreneur (OrangeMouth), a creative (portfolio), and thanks to my upbringing in The Bahamas, a bit of a beach snob, which gives me an excuse to travel the world for totally scientific beach ranking purposes.
There’s a saying that “Black joy is an act of rebellion.” Interestingly enough, one of the meanings of “Marla” is “rebelliousness,” and “joy?” Well that one speaks for itself. The last thing to know about me before we jump in, is that I’m rebelliously joyful.
This is me giving a home to my voice.
Now then! Get cozy and click here to get started with the blog and here to check out my ever-growing portfolio.
Founder | Joysmith | Creative | Rebel
Contact
Let’s talk!
If you’re here, you’re probably doing some amazing work that I’d love to help come to fruition.
…that or you’re also a beach-loving, foodie and you have a suggestion for my next trip! Either way, drop me a message!
Look forward to hearing from you!
Portfolio
CURRENT PROJECTS
A Superstitious West Indian Anthology
A collection of short stories inspired by long-held, tried and (maybe) true Caribbean superstitions
Seeing a baby lizard means someone is pregnant.
Coming home after midnight or a funeral?
Walk in the house backward.
Eating 12 grapes at midnight on New Year’s Day.
There are people like my Auntie Ga, who would not leave the house without turning in a complete circle, but generally, the Caribbean is what I like to call, “socially superstitious.” We may not truly believe the little things we do will bring us fortune or safety, but “Better safe than sorry.”
I find inspiration in the most unusual places, so the idea for this anthology was sparked by a friend’s mild allergic reaction. It will all make sense when you read the story, I promise!
A Superstitious West Indian Anthology is a cultural collection of short stories based on some of my favourite Caribbean beliefs handed down from generation to generation.
It’s currently being written,
so stay tuned for updates!
Credit: Black Light Media
A Black Mother’s Guide to Raising a Black Daughter
Black people are not a monolith, but Black mothers just might be.
Sometimes they make you wonder if they all got the same handbook when they had us.
A Black Mother’s Guide to Raising a Black Daughter is a collection of essays on lessons learned the hard way and the things left unsaid.
Want to contribute? Get in touch!
“There is a special kind of freedom that comes from
no longer forcing yourself into the boxes that have been created for you.”
The Blogs
Marla-Joy Muses
If this website is me giving a home to my voice, the blog is me at my most M-J, who I am at 3am (which is quite possibly when I’m writing the next post).
I love an adventure, let’s see where my midnight musings take us.
First post: “The First Page,” coming soon.
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Contact
If you’ve scrolled this far, something I’m doing must have piqued your interest.
Get in touch, let’s do a thing!
Marla-Joy 