Biography

Making her dynamic entrance into the world on March 31st, 1981, Shaquita Stubbs was born into the loving care of Alfred Stubbs (deceased) and Deborah Bootle. At the tender age of three, her grandfather took her under his tutelage and taught her how to play piano. Becoming a musical prodigy, she channeled her musical talents into the music ministry of Calvary Temple at 14 years old. It is through her service to the church that her musical passion was ignited! In 2000, she made the critical decision to pursue her passion at Palm Beach Atlantic University in West Palm Beach, Florida. The University became the ultimate training for her maturation in music and personal development. During her time at PBAU, Shaquita excelled exponentially and was recognized as the first Bahamian female to study Music Composition at the University. She went on to immerse herself in the Palm Beach Atlantic Jazz Ensemble, where her voice echoed throughout the Floridian coast while she penned many classical songs. She participated in a myriad of events such as: Women’s Fine Arts Night, Women at Work conference and New Music Concert at PBAU. In 2005, the culmination of her collegiate journey resulted in her receiving a Bachelor of Music Degree in Composition as well as she completed studies in Electronic Music. Shaquita Stubbs’ educational journey blossomed as she shared her harmonies with the world! She produced her debut album, "I Owe it All to You", which was a part of her final project in obtaining her degree. 

In 2006, Shaquita commenced her role as a music teacher at St. Georges High School in Freeport, Grand Bahama. Witnessing the exceptional talent among her students, she was determined to provide them with greater exposure in the Performing Arts industry. Thus, she created the renowned JAGS Pop Band in 2012 as well as achieved the ratification of a Performing Course in 2013. These initiatives paved the way for many students to perform nationally and internationally, eventually pursuing studies in Performing Arts at colleges such as Holland College, Central State of Ohio, Berkeley and Stillman College to name a few. In addition to these initiatives inspiring academic studies and professional performances, Shaquita’s tutelage and expertise has led to St. Georges’ High School being known as the premier school for Music in the Bahamas and the reigning champions in the E. Clement National Arts Festival.

Miss Stubbs is a talented musician and performer who excels as a pianist, vocalist, and self-taught saxophonist. Throughout her career, she has showcased her musical prowess at various prestigious venues both in the Bahamas and internationally, including Mar-a-Lago owned by former President Donald Trump, renowned jazz clubs in West Palm Beach, Florida, as well as establishments such as Georgie’s on the Beach, The Fairy House Restaurant, Churchill’s Restaurant, Neptune’s, the Treasure Bay Casino, The Upstairs, The Arena Restaurant, and Upstairs on the Bay, among others. Notably, she served as the former keyboardist and vocalist for the esteemed "Uppercut" band. Miss Stubbs has captivated audiences at private parties, weddings, community events, and public functions. Moreover, she has cultivated a robust online presence, garnering acclaim for her engaging virtual performances across various social media platforms. Undoubtedly, Miss Stubbs has established herself as a prominent entertainer in the industry.

While she is an exemplary educator and musician, she is also an acclaimed actress. Shaquita Stubbs has gracefully performed in three significant roles in plays produced by the Freeport Players Guild. She portrayed Miss Sherman in the production of "Fame, the Musical," followed by her portrayal of Leana Younger in the rendition of "Raisin in the Sun, the Musical", as well as Mother Superior in “Sister Act”. Furthermore, she has assisted in numerous other productions. It was within the embrace of the theater's limelight that she was nominated for a Twirp Award for "Best Actress in a Musical." Likewise, she has achieved other awards including the “Most Outstanding Director in Music” in 2018 and “Excellence in Education” in 2019. Moreover, she won several first place titles at the National Arts Festival among which in the Pop, Jazz and Gospel categories in 2021 and Pop in 2022. 

Today, Shaquita Stubbs lives by her mantra, "I Live to Perform"! This serves as a blazing beacon, illuminating her unwavering commitment to pursue excellence. With an infectious energy, she sparks inspiration in all forums, urging others to embrace challenges and strive for nothing short of greatness. Her overarching life goal is to establish a Performing Arts High School in the Bahamas so that she can continue to develop the young performers of our nation and beyond.