In 2017, Jessica Frances Thompson acquired her real estate license in the Bahamas and worked with C.A. Christie Real Estate Agency. Her experience as a saleswoman in real estate gave her the responsibilities of sourcing listings herself, going to open houses and networking which all cultivated a resolute sense of determination. Thompson now channels that same sense of determination into developing a well-crafted entertainment empire.
The Bahamian-born actress and model is a naturalist, and the ease with which she shines on and off the camera is undoubtedly captivating. Nobody has the ability to destroy stereotypes as gracefully as a Caribbean woman! As much as we adore Thompson for her angelic, bronze skin, those physical qualities alone could never allow her to be one of the top real estate agents in the Bahamas.
Her resolve is also what has allowed Thompson to become such a staple in the Bahamian fashion industry. Shoot after shoot, Thompson has consistently brought vibrancy and graciousness on set and it’s therefore no surprise, that iconic Caribbean photographers like Jamie Bruce and corporate giants such as Mercedes-Benz Bahamas all revere working with her. Her highly anticipated acting debut in Secrets In Paradise just couldn’t come any sooner. In our estimation, Jessica Frances Thompson’s dynamism, delightful aura and determination embody the substantial essence of an authentic Caribbean woman.
CARIB VOXX: Being a saleswoman in real estate means you have had to face rejection quite a few times in your life. How has working in sales contributed to your mental toughness, and how does that quality make you a better model/actress?
Thompson: “I think it’s the other way around! I started modeling before I got into real estate. Being in the industry definitely has its ups and downs, but over the years I’ve learned to focus more on just being happy with myself. It’s important to keep in mind that not everyone’s going to see you the same way. Rejection is hard sometimes, especially when you’re doing something new; but, it happens.”
CARIB VOXX: How old were you when you started modeling, and what compelled you to stay engaged in it for so many years?
Thompson: “I started when I was about 14. To be honest, I don’t even remember what made me want to start, but I’ve been able to stick with it for so long because I genuinely enjoy it. I don’t really view it as work anymore.”
CARIB VOXX: What’s the biggest misconception of you that your modeling prowess creates in the minds of people?
Thompson: “I’ve had people tell me they didn’t think I was nice until they met me. Social media creates lots of misconceptions in general. I think it’s because I tend not to get too personal on it; people may judge just based on what they see, which is okay, but I can’t help but ask why and how they come to that conclusion when they’ve never met or spoken to me.“
CARIB VOXX: How did you transition from modeling into acting? You seem really reserved! Was that a difficult transition for you?
Thompson: “I’ve done commercials before, but I started taking it more seriously after my agent, Stephanie, convinced me to take an acting class; I fell in love with it then. You’re right! I’m definitely reserved, but acting forces me out of my comfort zone and takes on a level of vulnerability I wouldn’t normally engage in. I was a bit nervous, but I wouldn’t say the transition was difficult; modeling is acting in a way.”
CARIB VOXX: Do you still practice real estate, and if so, how do you find the time to make sales with your hectic schedule as a model/actress?
Thompson: “Yes, I do still practice real estate! Luckily I’ve been able to balance everything. I’ve been doing it for about four years now, so I’ve had a bit of practice.”
CARIB VOXX: Why do you think it’s important for young Caribbean women to work in multiple industries and create multiple revenue streams for themselves?
Thompson: “I think freedom and independence are so important, and women have come so far. To be able to make a name for ourselves and make our own way is a huge breakthrough in my opinion. A huge goal of mine is that I don’t want to have to depend on anyone but myself. Still working on that!”
CARIB VOXX: Do you ever see yourself entering Miss World or Miss Universe pageants for The Bahamas?
Thompson: “I’d have to say no; I’ve never had any interest in pageants. I’ve been to a few though, and admire how much work those girls put in. It’s just never been my cup of tea.”
CARIB VOXX: Tell us your top three beaches in The Bahamas.
Jessica: “So hard to pick! I’d have to say Pink Sands Beach in Harbour Island, Jaws Beach in Nassau, and pretty much anywhere in Exuma.”