PAJE, in 2023, started venturing more into exploring more Caribbean talents and ministries, and when we came across that of Nikita Edwards, we were absolutely intrigued, to say the least. Her music radiated a strong sense of power, resilience and strength and humility as she sang of a life devoted to Jesus Christ! We wanted to allow the PAJE Fam to get to know her a bit, so here goes!
For a contextual background, here's a glimpse at Nikita's journey:
[Contributed] Nikita Edwards, born and raised in the Netherlands to Caribbean parents from Suriname she has lived the last 15 years in the USA (Florida, California, New York). It was in her college years there that she recommitted her life to Christ.
Nikita has been a full time missionary since 2013 where she served at a multiethnic, multi generational church called Crossover Church. (@crossover813), known for its Christian Hip Hop flavours. From there on she went on to serve full time with Gospel reggae band Christafari (@christafariband) as a musical missionary where she was for 6 years and was a singer, dancer and became a bassist while in the band.
Today, she is a missionary in Trinidad, where she lives with her Trinidadian dear best friend and husband Kerron and their daughter, Jahzara.
She launched as of 2023 into doing solo music and does speaking engagements at youth conferences where she shares about the goodness of God through her testimony.
PAJE: We noticed that you are a multi-ethnic individual and you've lived in multiple Caribbean nations. How would you say your journey has been building and maintaining your relationship with God in the midst of encountering varied cultural practices and beliefs?
Nikita: Building my relationship with Jesus Christ has been a journey truly, I would say through church community in every place where I lived, choosing godly friendships and to be open to mentorship in every season of my walk with God and maintaining a desire for spending time in the word of God. Though I lived in many different places, beliefs and cultures, I have been surrounded by strong godly believers who have been able to counsel me as well, including remaining rooted and grounded in God's word and truth.
PAJE: Your style and energy feels very authentic and natural, what would you say contributes most to the way you express yourself musically?
Nikita: I would say after been around untraditional, non conservative environments that represent the Christian faith for years such as being part of a church in Florida using the elements of hip hop, music, arts etc and having been part of Christafari have taught me a lot about using your gifts and talents for God's glory. So for example, if you are not into hymns or liturgical dance, but love reggae or jazz music then use it for the glory of God.
So, musically I am very much inspired by other great ministers of music who create outside the traditional sound of worship and praise.
PAJE: What are the top 3 characteristics about God that have kept you committed in your relationship with Him?
Nikita:
His unconditional Love
His undeserved Grace
His Faithfulness always
PAJE: What are 3 things about you that people wouldn’t readily know?
1. English is not my first language, I speak Dutch
2. I swam with Whale Sharks and stingrays before
3. I never ever thought of becoming a full-time missionary, as I got my degree in Psychology
PAJE: Who are your top 5 musical influences and why?
Nikita:
1. Christafari - played, travelled and recorded with them for 6 years, I learned to write and to create to His glory always.
2. Samuel Medas - A true heart of worship and unique in own style that is always on my personal playlist
3. Avion Blackman - sat under her leadership in Christafari and her unique technique and smooth style has influenced me too
4. Bob Marley- a legend in the sound of reggae musically,
5. Maverick City- their sound and unity and dedication to singing Gods Word inspires me to write with that intention
PAJE: Wow, that list screams dynamism. Love it! On a given day without external obligations, what would we catch Nikita doing?
Nikita: Playing her Jazz Fender Bass guitar to reggae music for hours upon hours.
PAJE: Who is it that you desire to communicate most with through your music?
Nikita: The marginalized, unchurched people of this day and age. The lukewarm who need to see that being a Chrsitian is not about religion but relationship.
PAJE: What would you say to people who recognize that they have special talents and visions from God but recognize that they're not 'typical' and so they're afraid to launch out with them?
Nikita: I would say "Do it afraid if you have to, dare to take the step" : For God has not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind.
I have to always remember it is about making God known and God can use many ways to reach other people. Jesus Christ was not the typical King or Messiah they expected. He rode a donkey, had no place to lay his head, and was born in a stall full of cattle. But here we are 2000+ years later talking about Him and making him known.
PAJE: Wow, Nikita, it was so great getting to know you! Is there anything else you'd like to share?
PAJE Fam, keep an eye out for her as she steps out even more this year and works on her first EP! Speaking of which, Nikita's second single 'Blazing Fire' was just released! Check out the latest song below:
_____________________________________
Enjoyed this piece? Remember to like, share and comment!