Jermaine Rowe on Purpose, Folklore & Caribbean Creativity
Storyteller First
Jermaine Rowe is a multi-hyphenate creative whose work as a storyteller, professor, and cultural curator is deeply rooted in his Jamaican heritage.
Jermaine identifies himself first and foremost as a storyteller, explaining that the various mediums he works in—dance, teaching, directing, writing—are simply tools for fulfilling his purpose-driven mission. This philosophy has allowed him to create groundbreaking work that brings Jamaican folklore and Caribbean magical realism to mainstream audiences, using the structural frameworks of Greek mythology and Shakespeare but infused with the rich cultural heritage of the Caribbean.
His childhood in Spanish Town provided the foundation for his creative pursuits. Growing up in what he describes as “financial poverty but experiential wealth,” Rowe benefited from a community that nurtured his talents from an early age. His mother encouraged his artistic exploration, and he found his voice first through church performances. At St. Catherine High School, he was surrounded by exceptionally talented peers—including global superstar Spice (Grace Hamilton) and renowned opera singer Carlene Wall—who collectively pushed each other to excellence.
“Visibility and value are not the same thing. Our stories matter — even when no one’s watching yet.” – Jermaine Rowe
Caribbean Culture Global Impact
Particularly transformative were Jermaine’s experiences as a youth ambassador representing Jamaica internationally. These journeys to Cuba and West Africa expanded his worldview and reinforced the importance of cultural exchange. He recounts singing Bob Marley’s “Redemption Song” at a slave castle in Ghana, with the entire audience joining in—a powerful moment that solidified his understanding of the global impact Caribbean culture can have when given proper platforms.
A significant portion of the conversation addresses the importance of community building among Caribbean creatives. Rowe emphasizes the need for diaspora members to support each other’s work, share opportunities, and “college names in rooms”—advocating for talented peers in spaces where decisions are made. He discusses how colonialism created separation and competition rather than collaboration, and how overcoming that mindset is crucial for collective progress.
In our conversation, we also talked about:
- The value of mentorship and community in creative development
- The tension between visibility and value in the arts
- Why we must invest in our culture, our stories, and each other
- Practical tools for navigating burnout and staying grounded in purpose
This episode is for every Caribbean creative who’s ever felt like their work wasn’t “enough,” and for anyone seeking inspiration to embrace all of who they are — without apology and without limits.
Stay Connected
Connect with Jermaine Rowe: Website
Connect with @carryonfriends – Instagram | Facebook | YouTube
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