This Week We Feature Young Professional Ishika T. Z. Charles-Dowridge
Ishika is the Music Director at the New Life Fellowship Center Church of God in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, working under the direction of Bishop Clinton G. Ruddock.
“My Job entails music, helping them vocally and teaching them the essence of music. I enjoy ministering to the people and also playing music as well.”
The musically talented Ishika also worked at the New Testament Church of God International Worship Center on Tortola under the direction of Bishop Ishmael Charles. There she held the position as Music Director, serving under Lady Patrica Charles.
Dream come true
Our young professional said her current job is something she dreamt of all her life and is no doubt getting much self-gratification while inspiring many.
Ishika started singing at the age of 2 and started playing the keyboard and drums at the age of 6. She also learned how to play the bass at the age of 12.
In 2013, she brought out her first album called ‘I got a Purpose’ and launched her second album in 2015 called ‘Ishika Charles Project’ at the New Testament Church of God International Worship Centre.
Moving from strength to strength, in 2016 Ishika placed in the top 3 in a Christian based competition called America Got Anointing.
Through her singing, Ishika has had the opportunity to travel to various places in the Caribbean, England and the USA, sharing the Gospel and inspiring many.
“My current vision and pursing is to become a Gospel music artiste, producer and songwriter.”
VI made!
Virgin Islander Ishika is a product of the Ebenezer Thomas Primary School, the then BVI High School and Cedar International School.
After completing high school, Ishika enrolled at Lee University in Cleveland Tennessee, where she read for a Bachelor of Arts in Church Music and Bachelor of Science in Youth Ministry. During her time at Lee University, Ishika was the Music Director at the school choir called Evangelistic Singers.
Some of her other career goals are to open up a music store and a music teaching facility for children or adults to know more about music. “Also building a facility for young women to get off the streets and help them get back to their purpose in life.”
Our young professional said she is able to keep her focus by staying on God's word every day and motivating herself.
Inspiration
Ishika also credits her Mom and Dad as the persons who inspire her. “Watching them countless times doing God's work is a big inspiration to me, to keep me going every day and holding to God’s unchanging hand.
“Also, my grandma Zelda Simpson who always gives me the words of wisdom in everything that I do. Last but not least, my husband Tristan inspires me every day to say focussed on my music and keep pushing no matter what. My entire family inspires me to push more than anything in this world and a few people I call friends.”
Our young professional uses her spare time to pick up some literature. “I love to read, to make people laugh, writing songs. I love to play video games.”
Advice to Youth
Ishika advises and encourages every young person trying to pursue their dreams and goals to keep pushing and stay focussed. “It may get hard at times and they are times you may want to give up but you have to forever keep your eyes to the hills never give up…the Bible says in Ecclesiastes 9:11 says the race is not given to the swift nor the strong but he who endures until the end.”
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