Virgin Islander Monea L. Richardson is a talented dancer, choreographer and recording artiste. Photo: Provided

Monea during one of her many on stage performances. Photo: Provided

Monea L. Richardson, seen here with another Virgin Islands' recording artiste Travis Walters aka Travie Rozae, is twice winner of the Top 7@& Music Awards. Photo: VINO/File

Monéa gained popularity through her performances at the Top 7@7 Music Awards where she won the ‘Artist of the Year’ award two consecutive years. She is also well known as a dancer and choreographer.

“It fulfils me. I'm happiest in this element,” Monéa said of her work.

Early dreams

At first, Monéa only wanted to be a professional dancer.

“I remember watching music videos on BET after school and trying to teach myself choreography. When Tortola went through its 'rap group' phase, I felt capable since I knew I was a good writer in school but I couldn't sing at that moment. That's when I realised that I could be the star instead of dancing behind one.”

Convinced that she could possess the whole package as an entertainer, Monéa said she worked on her craft daily by performing in front of her mirror. “I've come a long way and I'm proud to say that I used my resources and taught myself.”

She released her first mixtape called 'Big Dreams' in 2012 and also an EP called 'AOTA' in January 2016.

She is currently working on a project that is scheduled to be released next year, 2017. Monéa will be releasing her first single called 'Island gyal' this month (November).

As for stage performances, the talented Monéa has had quite a few but one of her biggest highlights was opening up for R. City in St Maarten this summer.

“I've always looked up to them. The feedback I got from DJs and other people I respected was humbling. The crowd was 'lit' and showed me so much love. I'm grateful that Five Star Promotions approached me with the opportunity.”

Another memorable achievement for Monéa was when she was a finalist in Jazze Pha’s ‘I’ll listen’ contest. “It really warmed my heart to see Virgin Islanders come together and support me the way they did.”

Challenges

The journey for Monéa is not always an easy one. Even for someone as focused and determined as she is, there are low points. However, her love for music and her passion to succeed supersede the challenges.

“Apart from things moving slowly, a lot of my challenges have been internal. Sometimes I get in my head too much. I remain focused by thinking about the reason why I do music. I convince myself that I can do it and that I owe it to myself. I think about my family and the people that want to see me win. My biggest fear is living a life of regret so I force myself to not run away from things I am afraid of. My mom and closest friends also keep me centred with their reassuring words.”

Ultimately, Monéa sees herself touring the world, selling out arenas, and being acknowledged for her impact in music through Grammy Awards and other awards. “I want to see that I affected people's lives positively by doing what I love.”

These are big dreams indeed for this former St George's Primary School and St George's Secondary School student.

And so it started out, as a dream, for many of the world renowned entertainers of today. Monéa believes that she can achieve great success with her work ethic, belief and perseverance.

Arts & Academics

On the academic side, Monéa is a graduate of the H. Lavity Stoutt Community College (HLSCC). She graduated Summa Cum Laude with an Associate’s Degree in General Studies – Science Concentration.

She also received her Bachelor of Arts in Biology from the University of North Carolina Chapel Hill. During her time at UNC, she was a dancer and choreographer for the Hip Hop Dance Team Kamikazi. She managed to balance her studies, dance and a part-time research assistant job in her last semester. After graduation, she worked full time as a research assistant at UNC for a year.

Monéa shared that she was about to start a PhD programme in Biomedical Science but decided to put it on hold to chase a dream she has had for as long as she can remember.

The young entertainer said Rihanna, R. City “and my friends who are also chasing their dreams whether as dancers, entrepreneurs, or artists” are people who inspire her.

Advice to youth

We asked Monéa what advice she would give to young people to encourage them to pursue and achieve their dreams.

“It all comes down to what you want to do with your time on earth. People have their opinion on what you should do, but you have to do what you feel is right. Playing it safe doesn't guarantee success.”

Our blossoming Young Professional also shared some advice to young Virgin Islands entertainers and those seeking to get into the industry.

“I am nowhere close to being where I want to be and I've been doing music for years. If you want to do music, you have to really love it. You put more money and time into it than you get back but the money will come. All in all, you reap what you sow. Work hard, build relationships instead of using people, be passionate (drive comes from passion) and do you,” Monéa L. Richardson said.