About Me
Hi, I am O'Nika Princess, and I was born and raised on the enchanting island of Saint Lucia in the Caribbean. I hail from a place often referred to as the Helen of the West, a playful reference to the mythical Helen of Troy. I obtained her B.A. in English Literature from Grambling State University and went on to earn a Master of Divinity in New Testament Studies from the Interdenominational Theological Center in Atlanta, Georgia. My master's project involved the development of a syllabus exploring the concept of "othering" in the Biblical text, focusing on the marginalized, such as women, slaves, immigrants, eunuchs, and the Diaspora.
Furthermore, I hold a Master of Theological Studies in Biblical Studies from Claremont School of Theology, where my thesis titled "A Feminist Interpretation of Mark 6:21–29" utilized the historical critical method, sexual ethics, and feminist theory to argue that Salome was an abused child. I have also obtained certificates in gender studies, ancient history, medieval history, medieval religion, and writing and editing.
My written work has graced the pages of online platforms and magazines such as LAPP The Brand, Pop Culture and Theology, Intersect Antigua, Equality Fund, Christian Feminism Today, and The Painted Leaf. Additionally, I share my insights and musings on biblical studies, sexual violence, goddesses, and ancient and medieval queens through my personal blogs on Kofi and Patreon, aptly named "Isletheologian." I also regularly contribute to the Popular Culture Studies Journal YouTube show, "Popular Culture Dialogue." Further displaying my passion for history, I host a podcast called "Bad Ass Women of History," where I delve into the lives of historical women who have been unjustly demonized, forgotten, or slut-shamed. I also have a blog of the same name where I blog about women in history. I was also the social media manager for the domestic violence nonprofit Raise Your Voice St. Lucia.
Beyond my scholarly pursuits, I nurture a desire to become a renowned historical romance novelist. My self-published novella, "Ladjablès: A Love Story," draws inspiration from St. Lucian folklore, mythology, fantasy, LGBTQIA+ themes, and historical fiction. Furthermore, my collection of poetry, "From the Dark Place," offers an autobiographical essence.
Outside of my PhD work and my other creative and academic endeavors, I am working on a collection of essays about Caribbean goddesses and female deities and spirits and a monograph about ancient Kush and the women who ruled it.
My research interests are gender, sexual violence, trauma, consent, migration, body protesting, body autonomy, and childhood, and how they intersect with the ancient world and the Bible.
In my personal life, I adore cats and rabbits, believing them to be the epitome of perfect pets. I embrace the role of a novice plant mummy, take pleasure in cooking, relish museum visits, art shows, and open mic nights, and find solace in the serene beauty of the beach. My culinary preferences encompass a love for Caribbean, Indian, French, and Greek cuisine, with my ultimate favorite dishes being the delectable Caribbean delights of roti and bouyon. Additionally, I dabble in the practice of yoga, further nurturing my mind, body, and soul.
“You can make anything by writing.”
C. S. Lewis