Lesbian dancehall divas break new ground in reality TV series

The remounted reality TV series ' Dancehall Divas' dives deep into the lives of eight females who are part of the complex dancehall subculture.

With their bold characters, the episodes are expected to be riddled with lavishness, entertaining excursions and, of course, drama, as viewers are invited to get up close and personal. Unexpected, however, is the storyline of two divas, Kerry and Kizzy - both hailing from Harbour View, Kingston, in a love relationship.

Kerry, a unionised carpenter, and Kizzy, a chef, hope their story will help effect change.

"We are fearless; people who know us will tell you that's exactly who we are, two females who are proud of our sexuality and even more proud to be the voice for many closeted dancehall couples worldwide who are afraid to be open because of judgement," the two answered in unison.

Kizzy, the outspoken one, continued, "I am looking forward to people seeing us for who we are in Dancehall Divas."

Known as the 'lesbian Bonnie and Clyde' of New York City's dancehall, the couple says the music has become far less aggressive towards members of the LGBTQ community.

"In fact, many artistes are recognising the negative impact singing anti-gay lyrics can have on their travels, career and finances, so they have toned down the negative rhetoric a lot," Kizzy told THE WEEKEND STAR. "Believe it or not, most of our supporters are from the dancehall community - artistes, producers, promoters and the like. What we have found though, personally, the culture in the industry is much more accepting of lesbians than gay men in general."

Together their advocacy has impacted the lives of individuals, whether gay or straight, and in the TV series, the two express how tolerance and acceptance in their interactions are used to spread dancehall culture across a wide market.

"People love our partnership, our devotion and respect for each other, and we are all about love ... love is powerful. Viewers will see that Kerry and Kizzy help others like us to be brave and on the other end, we help people who are afraid to be supportive see the benefit of embracing humanity in all forms," said Kizzy.