My name is Althea Clarke, when I was 8 years old I moved to Canada with my mother and brother. I can say that moving to a new country was one of the hardest challenges I've had to endure. I’ve earned a certificate in business operations as well as hairstyling and journeyman certificate, red-seal. My current business I’ve had for 11 years.
My biggest challenge, sadly, is with my community. I wish to end the segregation in Calgary as well as bring the black community together. I want us to support and encourage one another so that we create a positive atmosphere for people of colour in the city. This, I realize, is a difficult task, but I will continue to empower the community by teaching self love.
I have started a Facebook live series, where I talk about the issues concerning other Calgarians. The show averaged 2000 + views per week and it was with this following that I was able to land Island Tea with Althea, a television series on OMNI TV. Recently I’ve filmed episodes for the series where I interview the Mayor, MLA’s and council members. Achieving all this has shown me that the sky is the limit.
I am inspired by failure because it makes me get up and work harder. Life can be sweet but also full of struggle and we must embrace both. I've worked really hard to teach my children to be proud of who they are. My youngest caught once asked me why her skin was darker than mine, she believed her skin wasn't as beautiful. I told her that the melanin in her skin was her magic. What we teach our children is carried with them throughout their lives, it will change their influence on society. I want to take what I’ve learned and give it to anyone who’ll listen.
I want to say thank you, for all the support I’ve had and I’m grateful everyday for the blessings and opportunities that have been laid upon me.
