By Simona Siad

NATASHA ALI, 32: Xpats Carnival/Louis Saldenah’s Mas-K Club

I play mas because: It’s part of my heritage. It is empowering to have hundreds of women celebrating, being friendly, dancing, singing and feeling very sexy and confident.

On dressing up: Once you’re in your costume and at the parade, you feel so alive. As insecure as you may be about your body, you feel good.

My beauty tip: Once you find out what colour your band is, some women find matching running shoes or colour coordinate their makeup.

My favourite memory: A couple of years ago, it was raining all day! However, it did not stop the parade or the masqueraders from jumping up and having a fantastic time. We were soaked by the end and loved every minute of it. It showed me that nothing can stop the celebration of Caribana.

Advice to other women: Let it all go. With West Indians, if you have a full-figure, they want you to shake it! You forget about being insecure. Once you see everyone else dressed, you just let go.

When I play mas I feel: Alive.