Lauren Less balancing motherhood and career

Born and raised in the corporate hub of Jamaica, Kingstonian Lauren Less has emerged as an example of resilience and determination.

From early on, she exhibited a penchant for advocacy, a trait she honed during her formative years at Campion College. She went on to be second runner-up in the Miss Universe Jamaica 2020 pageant, modelling, and being the face of several brands. She has held different posts as a woman in leadership, and accomplished and completed a bachelor's of laws degree. However, her trajectory took an unexpected turn upon completing her degree at The University of the West Indies in 2022.

Opting to diverge from the conventional legal path, Less delved into the realm of marketing, particularly specialising in digital platforms.

"I like being out there, interacting with people, creating, and seeing my ideas come to life," she shared, embodying the spirit of innovation and creativity. Yet, life threw a curveball when Less discovered she was pregnant. Prioritising her well-being and that of her unborn child, she made the courageous decision to temporarily step away from her burgeoning career.

"The stress was too much, and I couldn't risk that on my child because she would feel everything," she reflected.

Amid the challenges of transitioning to parenthood, Less found solace in her spirituality and the unwavering support of her parents, Lenworth and Laurline Less, as well as her partner Brandon.

"I had to completely rework my self image and integrate this motherhood of myself into how I view myself. But luckily I have a great support system. Brandon has been very supportive, I couldn't do anything without him to be honest," she said, underscoring the importance of a strong support network.

Today marks a special milestone in Less's journey as she celebrates her daughter Aaminah's eighth month of life. Mother's Day, celebrated over the weekend, also held a particular significance for Less, as she commemorated her first year as a mother.

"It's been an incredible journey watching Aaminah grow and thrive. I've found a rhythm with her," she shared with a smile.

During her hiatus, Less remained steadfast in her pursuit of personal and professional growth. Investing her time in courses on digital marketing and public relations, she also participated in business incubators like the Branson Centre. Her intention? To reignite her career in marketing and public relations using her law degree as an asset, while also exploring opportunities in modelling.

Beyond her professional endeavours, Less is deeply involved in empowering women in agriculture as the vice president of the Golden Grove Farmers Women's Association in eastern St Thomas. Inspired by her mother, she endeavours to uplift women in rural communities by providing them with opportunities for socio-economic advancement.

"I took it upon myself, alongside my mother, to put my knowledge and our resources to work to give these women the opportunity to uplift themselves," she explained.

Drawing from her experiences in the Miss Universe Jamaica pageant, Less encouraged women to seize opportunities and defy societal expectations.

"Take every opportunity that is handed to you and put your best foot forward because you never know who is watching," she advised. As Less embarks on her journey back into the professional realm, while navigating the joys of motherhood, her story serves as a testament to the strength of women who dare to defy expectations and carve their own paths.

"I know I thought it was the end of the world at first, but I look at other mothers as examples and I know that we see so many mothers out there killing it in their careers, killing it in their businesses. They have found their balance. So I would say to any mother who thinks that it's the end of the world, be patient and compassionate with yourself to find your balance."