HER Stories Revisited
By Cherisse Moe, HER Magazine
For the past six years, Her Magazine has been a source of inspiration, empowerment, and connection for women in Trinidad and Tobago. Through the pages of our magazine, we have had the privilege of sharing the stories of extraordinary women who have overcome challenges, achieved their dreams, and made a positive impact on the world.
Remember Genisa “Nisa” Sellier, the popular singer whose candid love story reminded us that even after heartbreak, love can find its way back? How about Rebecca Mohammed, the karate sensei who is making waves on the international stage? And Judaline Cassidy, the Trinidadian plumber breaking barriers in New York City?
These inspiring trailblazers have graced the pages of Her Magazine, inspiring countless readers by sharing their unique stories. Today, as we celebrate our 300th issue (bring out the champagne!), we’re thrilled to reconnect with them for this milestone and get their account of how being featured in our magazine has changed their lives.
Genisa Sellier
There will always be beauty and bruising when you share personal testimonies. For me, it’s always been a “catch 22”. I’m learning though, that beauty is the more powerful gem. My husband and I have never been shy or dishonest about the movie that was our love story; truly a beauty and the beast phenomenon. None of us claim the beast though, so the most public share has been your platform, Her Magazine.
Judaline Cassidy
Being featured in Her Magazine was an incredible honour. It led to an unexpected yet meaningful connection with a female plumber who works for The Water and Sewerage Authority of Trinidad and Tobago (WASA). This connection was especially touching, as it highlighted the reach and impact of my story.
My friends and family were so proud to see me recognised in such a way, and it was heartwarming to receive messages of support and congratulations from people on social media. Their encouragement has only strengthened my resolve to keep pushing forward and making a difference here in the USA and Trinidad.
Rebecca Mohammed
The response from being featured in Her Magazine was pretty overwhelming in a positive sense. I remember waking up to so many messages from friends, family, colleagues, extending their congratulations and well wishes. Several people had no idea of my activity in karate, much less for my role as a competitor and instructor under the Shotokan Karate International Federation (SKIF). A lot of people also reached out about getting their children involved as they felt inspired by the story and saw the need to foster sound values such as discipline and integrity whilst striking a balance in their kids’ daily lives.
Most recently, I had the privilege of being selected as team captain once again by my instructors, Sensei Ian Sammy and Sensei Celeste Nottingham, travelling with our local SKIF contingent to participate in the 10th Continental Championship held in Querétaro, Mexico, where our team was able to cop five medals for Trinidad and Tobago.
In addition, I was able to represent the red, white and black on the panel of referees and also functioned in the capacity of the team’s interpreter for the trip, assisting in strengthening ties with our Central and Latin American counterparts.
As we move forward, I hope to travel again with our national team to Turkey for the 2025 SKIF World Championship and to Paraguay for the 11th SKIF Pan American tournament in 2027.
