We could easily claim that the wonderful Frances Hernandez is the female equivalent of ‘a jack of all trades’ and talents. From spotting her rocking the stage at the most recent improv comedy night with the infamous Improvengers, to delivering amazing designs to an international array of clients, to expertly coaching kids by day about all things basketball, her creative yet equally athletic persona will leave you riveted.

Frances considers herself “a hybrid in every sense of the word.” Being of both American and Filipino descent, she believes that both cultures influenced her creative and athletic ambitions. Born and raised with the stunning North Carolina mountains as her playground, her athletic ambitions earned her a full scholarship to play at the Appalachian State University in the U.S., while she pursued two degrees in Advertising and Public Relations.

Whether she is polishing up her improv skills, working on a magazine she started back in the U.S., or leading a girls’ basketball program right here in Kuwait, Frances feels that she has found her true calling. In following through with her two passions, design and athleticism, she finds herself open to endless opportunities in being in Kuwait. She also happens to be a lover of food, dancing, art, puppies, traveling, snowboarding, shopping, movies, and playing the ukulele.

How would your mother describe you in one word?

Independent.

How would you describe your mother in one word?

Loving.

What is the most insane question you’ve ever been asked?

Can you dunk a basketball?

What is the most spontaneous thing you’ve ever done?

Moving to Kuwait! Not really knowing anyone, and it was kind of last minute.

What word in the English or Arabic language do you wish you had invented?

YALLA! I use it all the time now. I like the literal meaning of it. “Let’s go, GO, Hurry, or C’mon” … Life is short and I believe if you have a dream or something you want to do, go and do it. Don’t wait… YALLA!

Where would you like to live? What is your dream retirement location?

I would love to live in London I think. I’m going for the first time in December and I really think I’m going to love it. But as for retirement, I’d retire back home in the mountains of North Carolina where it is serene, beautiful, and an amazing place to raise a family.

What is the first famous quote that comes to your mind?  

“Life isn’t about waiting for the storm to pass, but learning how to dance in the rain”

What animal best describes the kind of partner you’d be interested in?

The first thing that came to mind was a penguin (I just came back from a visit to the Penguin Encounter in Dubai). I learned that when male penguins choose their mate they search endlessly for the right stone to present them. If she accepts the stone, they are mates for life. Not to mention how social, playful, funny and dependable they are.What do you miss about your childhood?

The mountains. I lived in the woods: making forts, climbing trees, four-wheeling, living life without technology, just my imagination.

If you could change your name, what would you change it to?

Up until my 20s I wanted to change my name so badly. But now, I wouldn’t change it for anything. It’s my grandmother’s name and she is the most amazing, strong person.

How would you describe your handshake in one word?

With kids: cool and complicated (I love making up handshakes). With adults: firm and confidant.

What is the toughest part of your character?

Stubborn.

Who is your favorite historical figure?

Maya Angelou.

What in the world do you least desire?

Cucumbers, I don’t like them, not one bit. But on another note, I don’t desire negativity.

What do you think is lacking in the world, which if there was more of would make the world a better place?

Understanding. Ignorance is the lack of knowledge. The more understanding and knowledge you have of something, the more you are close to respecting it and allowing it to live peacefully in its own right. Many are scared by what they don’t know or understand. But if we can let that guard down and just try to listen, the world could be a better place.

Why do you think most girls/guys like you?

I try to be open to everyone. No matter who you are, I want to get to know people, if they’d let me. I love making friends!

Finish this sentence: “Happiness is a thing called…”

Love. And a state of mind.

You can check out Frances’ work online at www.franceslynncreative.com, and find her on Twitter and Instagram @franceslynn2010.