The Origin Story

The Killa Hills Collection is symbolic in nature. It represents the grit and pure determination that one develops from undergoing the trials and tribulations of growing up. The collection represents the beauty and true uniqueness of one's place of origin: their initial stomping ground.

Edge Hill is the initial stomping ground of the Weston Family. Edge Hill is a small community in Jamaica that rests in the county of Middlesex on the northern shore of the island. My Mother grew up in Edge Hill and spent her teenage years there as well. The community was a thriving farming settlement during the 1960s to the 1980s. During this time My Grandfather, Leslie Weston, was the main farmer in the community. He ensured that members of the community received whatever they needed ranging from the purchasing of his goods to employing fellow members of the community. Beatrice Weston, My Grandmother, was known as the nurturer of the community. Anyone that came to their home in Edge Hill, left with something, whether that be a chicken and eggs, or some produce from the farming that took place. The Weston household was a pillar of the Edge Hill Community. The home was a safe haven for the neighborhood.

Killa Hills is my initial stomping ground. Blue Hills Ave(Killa Hills) Hartford, Connecticut is one of the busiest streets in the city as it is home to one of the biggest populations of Jamaicans in the world, concentration wise, outside of Jamaica. I lived my whole life on one of the streets in this community. The Neighborhood is known for its infamously strong Jamaican culture and humble vibe. I remember countless days of scraping up enough quarters to run up to the corner store to buy some candy. It was a good day when I could walk out of the store with some chips, candy, and a drink but either way, I’d be leaving with something. 

Reminiscing, there were numerous days of playing outside until mummy would come to the screen door and yell out, “It’s getting dark, it’s time to come inside”. I’d respond to mummy’s call saying, “Coming mom” about two, three times before reluctantly ending the game of basketball or rumble fumble we were playing and heading inside. On Sunday mornings, the aroma of fried dumplings with cooked saltfish, onions, and tomatoes filled my house and the smell lingered until about Tuesday. Overall, the genuine feeling of a truly loving and comfortable home that My Mother provided for my brother, and I is candidly a blessing and protecting my home is paramount. We have lived in Killa Hills for our whole lives and I wouldn’t have had it any other way.

Overall, the experiences my family gathered while growing up In Edge Hill helped to shape the down to earth yet bold and strong personalities that they embody today. The Weston Family migrated to the US in the 1990s and as a result, my brother and I as well as some of my cousins were born here. While in the US the culture and principles that my family grew with in Jamaica, did not cease. They carried on their legacy and imparted their wisdom and life lessons on my generation. Thus, no matter where the Weston family resided, true humbleness and determination always shined through their actions. By sticking to their culture and values , The Weston Family has been able to thrive regardless of where they are geographically. 

No matter where you grow up, regardless of how things might seem in the moment, you will make it if you work hard and grind to achieve your goals. You'll get there, just keep pushing and represent your culture while doing so.