Christena Williams, better known by her stage name of Antonia Valaire was nominated in the 39th International Reggae and World Music Awards(IRAWMA) in 2021. She is a Spoken word Performer, Author, Self- Publisher and Host and Podcaster of The Verandah Conversations on face book and on Anchor FM. She is a graduate of Spanish Town High school. She has won a Certificate of Excellence Sarabita Masters Award in 2020 from USA based organization, Ah Time Ras productions. Prior to this award, Valaire had already been named the International Spoken Word Artist of the Year for 2020 by the  USA Based organization of People of Extraordinary Talent (P.O.E.T) organization and Blaq Ice Productions for which she retained in 2021.

Valaire has a BA Degree with Honors in History and Philosophy from the University of the West Indies. Her book “Pearls among Stones” received the Prime Minister’s National Youth Award for Excellence in Arts and Culture. She is also the author of Black Gold and Out from Babylon System: Liberation of Mind. She received a Major Art award from the Jamaican Youth Empowerment through Culture, Arts and Nationalism (JAYECAN) organization

Her content whether written or spoken is of righteous, justice, and conscious with a bit of radical approach. She is not afraid to speak her mind as a Griot and wordsmith. She is a deep thinker and believes in word, sound and power as an activist. She writes on spirituality, history, African identity, gender, politics, nature, social injustice, philosophy etc.

She has won 5 awards for her works. She has never travelled, yet you will find her poetry in Anthologies and video performances in countries such as Nepal, Portugal, Ireland, Nigeria, Ghana, Zimbabwe, New Zealand, India, Canada, England, United States of America, China, etc. Additionally, “According to Glenville Ashby, PhD, Book Reviewer and Gleaner Columnist, he states,” No doubt, … Williams has sealed her place as one of the region’s most compelling artistic voices”.