Dianne Plummer is the founder of the Jamaican make-up brand Your True Shade. This entrepreneur used her background and training in chemical engineering to create a growing cosmetics line targeted to women with sensitive skin. Today, Dianne shares her vision for the YTS brand and her favourite places in Jamaica.

What does being Jamaican mean to you?

Being Jamaican means that I am capable of achieving great things. Our saying ‘wi likkle but wi tallawah’ can be seen in so many Jamaicans who strive for excellence on the world’s stage and that’s where I would like Your True Shade (YTS) to be.

What inspired you to create Your True Shade Cosmetics?

While attending Aalto University, in Finland, I found it challenging to find a foundation that offered the ideal coverage without affecting my eczema. On my visits back home I would stock up on make-up essentials to take back to Europe. I can recall how frustrated I was when my last bottle of foundation fell to the ground; it was then that I decided to use my background in chemical engineering to create my own make-up.

What two words best describe the YTS brand?

Two words that could adequately describe YTS would be natural and flawless.

Describe your product development process.

Our products are made locally in our Kingston lab where traditional Jamaican ingredients and natural minerals have been incorporated to create a potpourri of wellness for females who want to take better care of their skin without compromising the quality and performance of their make-up.

What is your vision for your fledgling Jamaican make-up brand in the next five years?

For True Shade Cosmetics to become a Jamaican brand of make-up and ultimately, the brand of the Caribbean and its diaspora.

What family values did you inherit from your parents that you will be passing onto your children?

My mother instilled in me that I can do anything and would always support me in anything that I decided to try. She also taught me to see the good in others and to be kind to those who are less fortunate. These are important values that I believe will be an asset to my children.

As a child, what was your least favourite chore?

My least favourite chore as a child was doing the dishes.

What book from your childhood, would you pick up and re-read today?

When I was nine, my mother bought me Jane Eyre, and this is a book that I would happily read again.

Where did you attend high school?

I attended the St. Andrew High School for Girls.

What was your favourite subject in high school?

Chemistry.

Who was your best teacher and how did they inspire you?

Mrs. Gooden, my English Literature teacher. She inspired me to look at things on a deeper level, dissect every bit of information and to be meticulous.

Which local activist/personality do you admire the most and why?

I admire Usain Bolt as he stuck with his goal which was to be the best, regardless of the setbacks, the hard work and failures; his vision to be a legend never left him. He is an inspiration.

What is your favourite restaurant?

East Japanese at Market Place. I love sushi.

What major developments would you like to see happen in Jamaica in the next 20 years?

I would love to see Jamaica invest in renewable energy and have greater appreciation for our environment by reforming our natural resources to become more self-sufficient.

Where would you recommend as a ‘must go’ to a first time visitor to the island?

I would recommend the parish of Portland.  It is such a hidden gem with many places to explore. The beaches there are beautiful and the people are warm.

Considering a staycation, where in Jamaica is your favourite place to unwind and recharge?

I enjoy taking a drive out to Portland to unwind and enjoy the beach and food.