Today, we’d like to introduce you to Karla Hylton.
Hi Karla, thanks for sharing your story with us. Maybe you can tell our readers some of your back story.
I am originally from Jamaica, where I grew up on a sugar plantation. As a child, I experienced several traumatic events, including a home invasion at the age of five years. My academic background is in Biotechnology. I hold a doctorate in Biotechnology and a postgraduate diploma in education.
My professional journey led me away from research and into education and writing. I spent three decades in a marriage that ultimately ended in divorce. From that marriage, I have two cherished children, a son and a daughter. I am excited about the opportunity to share my journey and my latest autobiographical work, titled “The Unvarnished Truth: Purpose in Pain.”
This book delves into the deeply personal and emotional aspects of my life, touching on subjects such as my own experiences with two suicide attempts, estrangement, marriage, motherhood, divorce, abuse, trauma, narcissism, and ultimately, triumph and empowerment. Within its pages, I trace the path I’ve traveled to discover meaning amid profound emotional pain.
My story is a testament to survival and transformation. It can serve as a wellspring of hope and encouragement for your readers navigating similar challenges. I’ve journeyed through the darkest depths of despair and emerged with a renewed sense of purpose, an unshakable resilience, and a profound appreciation for life. My narrative isn’t solely about the hardships I’ve faced; it’s also about the invaluable lessons I’ve gleaned along the way. It underscores that even in our darkest moments, a path to healing and a purpose worth discovering can emerge.
During my marriage, I surrendered my power to my spouse, making my children the sole source of my happiness. Despite finding fulfillment in motherhood, that void within me remained, and I impulsively attempted suicide after enduring a barrage of derogatory comments from my husband. This was my first attempt.
The second attempt was more serious and was meticulously planned. I was sure the outcome would be death. Yet, there was divine intervention, and my life was spared. This attempt occurred during my separation from my spouse, during which my adult children cut off contact with me. I was very close to my children, and this unprecedented and unanticipated estrangement from them became my breaking point. I lived for months in torment and anguish. I could not envision my life without them, and so I made the firm decision to end my life. It was the only power I thought I had… whether to live or to die.
Since self-publishing this book, I have had people calling me to express their gratitude for my boldness and openness, and the emotions expressed deeply resonated with them. I have recently completed certificate courses in mental health studies.
Due to the overwhelming response to my memoir, I have recently published a companion workbook: “Vanquishing Monsters.” This workbook is filled with practical strategies and techniques to empower people to confront and overcome the obstacles life throws.
It contains interactive exercises that delve into challenging themes such as marriage and divorce, narcissism, grief, estrangement, and suicidal ideation and recovery. I stand firm as an advocate for mental health and wellness.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
I have had to overcome physical abuse as a child, the dynamics that come from a dysfunctional family where my father was an alcoholic, and a marriage entered at the young age of 22 years to a narcissist. I struggled with suicidal ideation for most of my life.
During my separation, my two cherished adult children cut me off in every way. Even today, we are still estranged, and I have no way of communicating with them as they have also cut off my friends and family. I have had to deal with the death of my father, 25 years now, and my mother, two years now.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
Throughout my entire life, teaching has been my true calling. From a young age, I possessed an innate instinct for nurturing and educating others. After a brief period of engaging in research, I wholeheartedly pursued my passion and embarked on a lecturing career at a university.
Several years later, in 2012, I took a significant leap and established my private tutoring business, rapidly flourishing as my students achieved remarkable National and Caribbean-wide recognition. I actively conduct workshops tailored for students, teachers, and parents, providing them with valuable insights and strategies for success. Most recently, I acted as a consultant to the Jamaica Public Service Foundation for the revamp of their Power Up Energy Club.
Writing has always been a cherished passion of mine, and I have authored twelve books. Furthermore, I am honored to serve as a Career and Education columnist for the Jamaica Observer since 2015. I am also actively involved in the Caribbean LifeStyle Magazine and Buzz Magazine.
Outside education, I have proudly served as the former Chairman of the Friends of the Bustamante Hospital for Children. It has been a privilege to contribute to the betterment of healthcare and the well-being of children in Jamaica.
As I have transitioned to Atlanta, my focus has been on writing, mentorship, and speaking engagements. I have become involved in the Caribbean diaspora in Atlanta and was recently asked to serve on the Advisory Board of the Jamaica Museum and Cultural Centre based in Atlanta. My unique writing style and openness about the struggles I have been through set me apart from many people.
It is unusual for someone with my academic background and economic status to come forward and discuss openly the topic of suicidal ideation and other struggles with mental health.
Where do you see things going in the next 5-10 years?
In my opinion, over the next 5-10 years, the education industry will witness significant transformation driven by the integration of AI. Educators must leverage AI-powered platforms to deliver personalized learning experiences tailored to individual student needs and preferences.
AI-driven chatbots and virtual assistants will provide instant support and guidance, while automation of administrative tasks will streamline operations. Lifelong learning and skills development will be facilitated through AI-enabled online platforms. Overall, the widespread adoption of AI in education holds promise for improving educational outcomes and access to high-quality learning opportunities, provided it is implemented responsibly and ethically. Of course, there are disadvantages as well.
I believe there will be an increasing demand for genuine human interactions, leading to a greater demand for in-person mental health coaching. Despite technological advances, people will continue to seek the personal connection and human touch that comes with face-to-face interactions.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.khylton.com
- Instagram: @karlahylton
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-karla-hylton-5a583857/
- Youtube: @yes-institute
