From Business Development to Airbrush Training in Florida

When I joined the Kingston Creative Go Global Accelerator Program, my goal was simply to learn how to better structure my business as a creative professional. What I didn’t realize was just how transformative the experience would be. As a makeup artist, I’ve always been passionate about artistry and skill, but this program made me realize that creativity thrives best when paired with strategy.

Being part of the program was like getting a masterclass in business development tailored for creative entrepreneurs. Through the workshops, mentorship, and networking sessions, I gained valuable insight into what it takes to build a sustainable creative business. I began looking at Adolphus Makeup Artistry not just as a service, but as a brand with real potential to grow and evolve. It also helped me get clearer about my long-term vision, particularly the development of the Adolphus School of Makeup Artistry, which will focus on makeup for film and TV.

The program also taught me to think more like an entrepreneur, not just as an artist. During one of the workshops, we were guided through how to create a pitch deck, and that session truly changed everything for me. It gave me the clarity to take steps forward in my business.

Since most of my work takes place on production sets, I wanted to create a space where I could work comfortably and meet clients when I’m not on location. So, I invested in setting up my own studio space and took another important step in hiring an accountant to help manage my finances and keep the business organized. These might seem like small steps, but for me, they marked a major shift in treating my artistry as the professional business it truly is.  After all, if I’m ever seeking investment or funding, everything needs to be properly structured and documented. The program also introduced me to an incredible community of talented creatives. It was refreshing to be surrounded by people who truly understood the challenges and rewards of building something from the ground up.

Then came one of the most exciting moments of the program being selected as a recipient of the Kingston Creative Go Global Accelerator Travel Grant! This opportunity allowed me to attend Cosmix School of Makeup Artistry in Florida for an intensive Airbrush Makeup Training Course. Those four days at Cosmix School of Makeup Artistry were nothing short of transformative, and I’m grateful that Kingston Creative made it possible. Walking into the classroom on the first day, I knew I was stepping into an environment that would challenge and elevate me. The program was intense, structured, and taught by instructors who didn’t just teach they pushed you, guided you with patience and precision, and were genuinely passionate about helping artists grow. Each day pushed me to refine every part of my technique, from achieving flawless, even coverage to mastering precision detailing and understanding proper airbrush maintenance. It felt like the perfect blend of technical training and creative exploration.

By the final day, everything began to settle into place. My speed improved, my confidence grew, and I could feel my artistry evolving with every application. Completing the course and becoming certified in Airbrush Makeup was a proud moment for me one that will directly enhance the work I do on production sets and with clients. More than that, the experience reminded me why opportunities like this matter. Kingston Creative didn’t just provide a travel grant; they opened the door for me to expand my skills on an international level. I returned home inspired, and ready to bring a higher standard of artistry back to Jamaica.

Their support gave me the chance to strengthen my business foundation, refine my craft, learn at an international level, and return home with a new skills that will elevate everything I do, both on production sets and in my creative projects moving forward. Opportunities like this show that when Jamaica invests in its creatives by providing resources, and support we can achieve remarkable things and take our craft to new heights.

Thank you, Kingston Creative, for believing in me and investing in my journey, and helping me take this important step toward global excellence.

Marlene Adolphus is the CEO of Adolphus Makeup Artistry. Follow her on Instagram @adolphusartistry.