We had the good fortune of connecting with Shaquille Drayton and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Shaquille, what led you to pursuing a creative path professionally?
I never decided to pursue a creative career, it’s just something that has also been within me and apart of me.

My career is way more than just a source of income. It’s a lifestyle, a way of expressing myself while motivating others through fashion to take on life’s obstacles & overcome them.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
Zone Five is more than a brand, it’s a lifestyle. What makes Brand unique is being able to tell my story with my designs and providing quality items/materials while motivating others to chase their goals in life. I also want to pave the way in the Fashion Industry for others where I’m from in my beautiful country Barbados and set the bar high.

Reaching this level in my career have been challenging, yet exciting at the same time. It’s always a proud feeling to see people all over the world supporting my Brand and even having International Dancehall Artistes such as Shenseea, Ding Dong from Jamaica, Prince Swanny from Trinidad and LR from Barbados.

My biggest lesson I’ve learned along the way is to demolish all doubt and to trust 100% in my creativity and passion. I strongly believe nothing should be seen as a failure but rather a learning experience and remember consistency is key.

I’ll also like to give a bit of advise to other entrepreneurs — before other people view you as a success, you have to believe & see yourself as a success within your own mind first. You must always project that energy out, before anyone can ever take what you’re doing serious.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
I would definitely take them to Barbados, it’s always summer. Sun, Sand and Sea! I’ll take them to the beach and the spring, also a nice evening drive around the island to see all the historic spots and the beautiful landscape of the island.

Also hang out and have something to eat at the local restaurants, while enjoying the local music and Bajan culture.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
First of all, shoutout to God. Without him no of this would be possible.

Also the major support from my close family & friends has been very important with the level of success in my career this far. I also want to say special thanks to everyone that has supported my business over the years, which have allowed me to keep growing & being even more creative.

Instagram: https://instagram.com/zonefiveclothing

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