The Tribune

By JEFFARAH GIBSON

Tribune Features Writer

jgibson@tribunemedia.net

EVEN in the midst of a hectic schedule, Niquita Barr, a mother, entrepreneur and photographer, is still finding time to spread the Christmas spirit this holiday season.

Like many others who engage in charitable activities to help make the season extra special for others, Niquita has embarked on her own mission to bring joy to her fellow Bahamians. Spearheading the Cocoa, Cookies & Christmas Movies event that takes place this Friday is Niquita’s way of giving back to the community.

Cocoa, Cookies & Christmas Movies is an event designed to bring people together this Christmas. The inaugural event will be held a the Dundas Centre for the Performing Arts on December 21, and is only open to children’s homes.

Niquita said the introduction of this annual event seeks to restore family values and togetherness. Her mission is also to help teach the importance of creating happy memories and bonding with others as well as transforming the community and therefore creating a more peaceful environment for children.

“Every Christmas my son and I watch Christmas movies and drink hot chocolate. It has become somewhat a tradition for us. Last year, we made our first gingerbread house from scratch. The house was not the fanciest, but it is a memory that we will always share. These things mean the world to us and I wanted the same for other families,” she told Tribune Woman.

“Long story short, I was sitting down this August and it popped into my head. That was when I conceived Cocoa, Cookies & Christmas Movies. Then I figured, what a great way to raise money for charity. So I get to bring the Christmas spirit to my guests and raise money for a deserving charity at the same time. Perfect.”

Niquita said the event is a first of its kind and it incorporates everything Christmas themed, from the decor to sweet treats, drinks, music and Christmas stories.

“The atmosphere will be so magical it will seem as though you just stepped into the North Pole. It is designed to bring out the inner child. The Grinch would not stand a chance. The most special aspect of the event is that it will teach parents to create happy memories with their kids that will last forever,” she said.
“This is my first, and this event will be annual. So I have decided that the Sunday before Christmas will be the date of the event yearly.”

Apart from her charitable endeavours, Niquita is a hard working photographer, a video editor and a ministry worker.

“I wear many hats. I work for myself as a freelance photographer. I have been in the field for six years now. I picked up video editing over the years and do it full time at my church. Graphic design has always been something that I enjoyed. Even as a child I was artistic I have a vivid imagination so they fit perfectly,” she said.

Niquita said she is constantly developing her craft and looking for unique ways to capture special moments with her camera.

“I love that there is no limit to what I can create. Weddings are my favourite, but events are a very close second. I have been blessed to not only photograph but meet a few gospel musical stars because of photography. I snuck a photo with gospel legend Shirley Caesar when I was shooting the ‘Radio One: One Love’ concert. That was definitely the coolest encounter I have had thus far. I grew up on her music so to photograph her in her element was surreal,” she said.

As for anyone seeking to follow a similar path, Niquita said: “Be original. Come into it with your own style. Visualise what you want your brand to look like. Remember that you can learn something new every day. Most importantly, never stop believing in yourself. It won’t be easy and some people may doubt you, but find joy in proving them wrong.”