Jamaican Actor Fernando Edwards is Making His Homeland Proud

Many people who move to Los Angeles go there with stars in their eyes, hoping to make it big in the entertainment industry. Fernando Edwards also had lofty ambitions, and has done well for himself.

Fernando Edwards and Oprah WinfreyIn April, the Jamaican starred, produced and directed Rooted Betrayal, a half-hour drama that aired on Amazon Prime. He is also a partner in Taste Of Flava, a catering company, and principal designer for the Fashion Frenzy clothing line.

Edwards concedes making each venture a success is not easy.

“It presents its challenges, but I embrace them. Juggling fashion, a catering service, and films keep me grounded, focused, and motivated. Each endeavor pushes me to overcome obstacles and brings me one step closer to fulfilling my purpose in the film world. Despite the demands, I love the journey and the opportunity to grow each day,” he said.

Rooted Betrayal has been Edwards’ biggest project since moving to Los Angeles 10 years ago from Missouri where he attended Missouri Baptist University.

As an actor, he had small roles in films like She Ball, which starred Cedric The Entertainer and Chris Brown.

Taste Of Flava, which caters at events throughout LA, has helped introduce Edwards to A-Listers such as Oprah Winfrey. The creations from Fashion Frenzy, his latest commercial venture, appeals to the diverse populace in his adopted hometown.

Edwards was born in Clarendon parish, central Jamaica. In his teens, he moved to Portmore, a sprawling housing development on the outskirts of Kingston, Jamaica’s capital.

As he prepares to celebrate Jamaica’s independence on August 6, Edwards reflects on life in his homeland.

“The music scene in Portmore during my time there around 2002 -06 was vibrant and exciting. It was a thrilling experience listening to artists like Busy Signal, Vybz Kartel, Elephant Man, Assassin, Wayne Marshall, and others. Growing up in the same community as Barrington Levy in Clarendon, music was always present and my uncle would always listen to artists like Capleton and Sizzla,” he said.

Currently, Fernando Edwards is working on a script based on Jamaican culture which he hopes will make it to television.