In the vibrant tapestry of Caribbean history, Sintra Bronte emerges as a figure of enduring beauty and entrepreneurial spirit. Known best for her iconic 1972 appearance in a promotional poster for the Jamaican Tourist Board, Bronte’s story is one of chance, transformation, and inspiration.
This Trinidadian model and entrepreneur has not only left an indelible mark on the world of advertising but also built a successful career in destination management, making her a true icon of the Caribbean.
Sintra Bronte: A Chance Encounter
Sintra Bronte’s journey to becoming a global sensation began serendipitously in Jamaica. At the time, she was living in Jamaica with her husband. One fateful day, while waiting for her husband at The Jamaica Pegasus Hotel in New Kingston, she was approached by members of the tourist industry.
They were scouting talent for a new advertising campaign commissioned by the Jamaican Tourist Board through the American advertising company, Doyle Dane Bernbach. This chance encounter would change her life forever.
The very next day, the photoshoot took place at the picturesque Frenchman’s Cove in Portland. For over seven hours, Bronte stood outside, wearing a wet orange T-shirt emblazoned with the word “Jamaica” in bold black lettering. The photograph captured her in a moment of natural beauty and effortless grace, qualities that would resonate with audiences worldwide.
Reflecting on the experience, Sintra Bronte shared, “Everything was so wonderful here. I will never forget here as I consider it my first home and I now consider myself a Jamaican and Caribbean woman. At the time I never imagined that this would become an iconic image. I did it not thinking that this would turn out to be such an important portrait, as I have been recognized around the world because of it.”
The Iconic Image
The poster quickly became an emblem of Jamaican tourism, showcasing not only the beauty of the island but also the warmth and charm of its people. Sintra Bronte’s image was not just a photograph; it was a powerful representation of the Caribbean spirit. “
I am just five feet in height but I became a giant in Jamaica. It is still a very unique photograph that is famous around the world today. To me, the photo will not die,” she added.
Her influence extended beyond the realm of tourism. Named after her was a racecourse and a wristwatch, the “Sintra” by the Swiss company Rado. These honors are testaments to the lasting impact of her image and persona.
Celebrating the Legacy
In 2022, Sintra Bronte returned to Jamaica to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the iconic photograph. During this visit, a statue of her was unveiled, created by the talented sculptor Scheed Cole. The statue, made from waste material, stands as a tribute to Bronte’s enduring beauty and significance. “It is true to form. That’s Sintra and I love the eyes,” she remarked.
Cole, who was overjoyed to be commissioned for the sculpture, reflected on the honor, saying, “This is an iconic image that is older than me, which I grew up seeing and when I was asked to do the sculpture, I was amazed that I would have even gotten the opportunity to do it. It is a beautiful woman and I thought it was a moment that would be embellished that would make a difference to Jamaican people.”
S Hotel’s manager, Kirk Clarke, expressed the significance of the statue, stating, “Sintra has lost none of her beauty, but most importantly her natural warmth, which we believe radiates from the poster and represents the warmth of the Jamaican people.
We hope that in honoring her with this statue, we not only recognize her contribution to Jamaica’s tourism but that the statue will also serve as an inspiration to the new Jamaican icons, who will no doubt emerge.”
An Entrepreneurial Spirit
Beyond her modeling career, Sintra Bronte has made significant strides in the business world. Today, she owns a destination management company called A.J.M. Tours in her homeland of Trinidad.
Sintra Bronte’s company specializes in creating memorable experiences for travelers, showcasing the best of Trinidad’s natural beauty and cultural richness. Through her entrepreneurial endeavors, Bronte continues to influence and inspire, proving that her talents extend far beyond the world of modeling.
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