Guyanese fashion designer, determined to promote her roots

GENELLE Marshall is a Caribbean-born, multi-talented entrepreneur and creative professional dedicated to empowering others through artistry and business.

She began her crochet journey at the early age of 10, developing a passion for handmade fashion and accessories that continues today.

With over 10 years of certified experience in hair and eight years in professional makeup, she has built a versatile career that blends craftsmanship, creativity and entrepreneurship.

Marshall’s crochet business, Meembroid, specialises in handmade swimwear, hats and accessories, and has flourished over the past five years.

Marshall is currently expanding her brand by establishing a physical salon that will combine her beauty services and creative offerings, providing a one-stop space for clients to experience artistry and innovation.

Marshall said her work is defined by quality, creativity, and dedication to uplifting her community, inspiring others to pursue their passions, and leaving a lasting impact in the Caribbean.

The 38-year-old was born and raised in Grove, East Bank Demerara, Guyana. She attended Christ Church Secondary School, then went on to ATC and the Business School, and also completed further studies at Critchlow Labour College, where she pursued higher-level education.

“I’ve always loved creating, and I started crocheting when I was around 10 years old. Over the years, my passion for crochet grew, and I turned it into my business, Meembroid, where I design and create handmade crochet pieces like swimwear, hats and accessories,” she said.

Marshall told Pepperpot Magazine that, in addition to crochet, she has been a certified makeup artist for many years and has experience in hairstyling as well.

She added that after working through several small government jobs, she decided to branch off and focus fully on building her own business.

“My journey is about combining creativity, skill and entrepreneurship to create something that connects with people who appreciate handmade and personalised items,” she said.

Marshall stated that she decided to start a small business because she wanted to turn her passion into a career and have the freedom to create on her own terms without the possibility of intrusion from a full-time job.

Marshall told Pepperpot Magazine that, after working in various small-government jobs, she realised that her creativity and skills could be used to build something uniquely hers.

She established her brand, Meembroid, which allowed her to combine her love for crochet, designs and aesthetics with entrepreneurship.

Marshall related that it gave her the opportunity to connect with people who appreciate handmade, personalised items.

“Running my own business also challenges me to grow, learn and push my limits every day,” she said.

Marshall reported that she was inspired by her mother, Wonda Marshall, who introduced her to crochet at a young age, a skill embedded in the family.

She explained that she watched her mother crochet, and it piqued her interest and sparked her desire to become involved.

It was the beginning of something that would set her apart from others, a brand she established as her own into a small business that garners a livable income.

Marshall added that she spent countless hours watching, and eventually she gave it a try, and before she knew it, she was crocheting like a pro.

The process was challenging at first, she stated, but once she got the hang of it, it became easier to express herself through her ideas and concepts about what she wanted in designs and structures.

Marshall pointed out that, over the years, her mother, Wonda, taught her various techniques, which served as a guide, and that, through discipline, she was encouraged to practise consistently.

“I was able to perfect my craft. Seeing my mom’s fixed dedication showed me the value of patience, hard work and passion, and it inspired me to turn my love for crochet into a business,” she said.

Crocheting is a needlework technique that creates fabric by interlocking loops of yarn, thread or other materials using a single hooked needle.

Originating from the French word for “hook”, it is distinct from knitting because it typically works with one active stitch at a time. It is used to make clothing, blankets and décor.