Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Nyjah Monique. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Nyjah, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. When did you first know you wanted to pursue a creative/artistic path professionally?

It’s like I was born with a creative bug deep inside me. I knew that I had to ride the artistic rollercoaster. I went from designing trendy fashion pieces, playing musical instruments, or curating the ultimate playlists; my life has been a symphony of creative chaos.

However, for a brief period, I took a detour and tried to be responsible by taking up a 9-to-5 job and earning a degree to prove my adulthood, but the experience drained the life out of me; it felt like I was living in a black-and-white movie when I should be in the technicolor world. I learned to underestimate the power of a creative soul’s rebellion.

So, I decided to channel my rebellious spirit, bid farewell to the mundane 9-to-5, and dance to my creative drum beat. These days, when I’m not busy hosting my podcast, aRt ‘n B, where I explore alternative artists and introduce people to unheard music, I’m curating the pages of my pride and joy, Muse. Life’s too short to be dull and beige, so let’s splash color on this canvas. I feel like I’m in my element, and this isn’t just a job but a passion-fueled joyride.

Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.

Hello there, readers! I’m Nyjah Monique, and I’m here to add a pop of color to the everyday canvas of life. My love for creativity started early in life, and since then, it’s been an exciting and glittery ride.

Let me give you a sneak peek into my world: I’m the mastermind behind Spotify playlists that live their best lives in the top 10% of all user-created playlists. I’m the one who creates the perfect vibe for every mood. And if you haven’t checked out my podcast, aRt ‘n B, you’re missing out. In season one, it made its way into the top 30% of globally shared podcasts on Spotify, and I promise you, it’s the auditory adventure you never knew you needed.

Muse, my current labor of love, is a coffee table collection about to hit the scene. It’s not just a publication; it’s a movement. Muse is dedicated to showcasing the incredible stories of black women in creative industries. We’re not just flipping pages; we’re flipping the script on representation. When someone who looks like you achieves their goals, you know you’re one step closer to your own.

I’m also excited about my upcoming YouTube show, “Astrology Ain’t Real.” I’ll be exploring the stars behind the stars, reading the birth charts of famous musicians. It’s like a backstage pass to the cosmic symphony of our favorite artists.

For all the influencers, I’ve created “Beyond Words: The Influencer’s Guide to Storytelling,” my Patreon class where I share the secrets of crafting narratives that captivate and elevate. Storytelling is the magic wand that transforms influencers into legends.

I aim to be a record label owner and shake up the music industry. I want to redefine the game, not just in the notes but in the events surrounding it. It’s not just about making music; it’s about creating experiences, shaping culture, and leaving an indelible mark on the world.

So, what sets me apart? It’s not just about the beats or the words – it’s the unapologetic commitment to diversity and inspiration. I’m here to shatter stereotypes and create a world where everyone can see themselves reflected in the kaleidoscope of creativity.

What makes me proud? My work isn’t just about playlists, podcasts, or pages. It’s about breaking barriers, uplifting voices, and inspiring the next generation of trailblazers. Whether you’re vibing to my playlists, joining me in the podcast universe, or flipping through the pages of Muse, you’re part of a movement, a celebration of creativity in all its beautiful forms. Welcome to the Nyjah Monique experience – where every beat, word, and image celebrates YOU.

Is there something you think non-creatives will struggle to understand about your journey as a creative?

My journey as a creative isn’t just a job or a means to an end. It’s a constant chase after something intangible and inexplicable. There’s this inherent need to turn ideas into reality, to create something out of nothing, and that’s not something that fades away at the end of the day.

For those who aren’t creative, it can be hard to understand the emotional rollercoaster that comes with it. The ups and downs of self-doubt, the highs of creating something truly magical, and the constant dance with uncertainty – it’s like riding a wave that never stops. But for me, it’s what makes the journey so exhilarating.

Non-creatives might wonder why I would pursue something unpredictable when a more traditional path might seem safer. But it’s not a rebellion against stability; it’s a quest for fulfillment. The “traditional path” didn’t feel right for me.

Being a creative is like having a secret language with the universe – the ability to translate thoughts, emotions, and dreams into something that others can connect with. That connection, that spark, is what keeps me going. And while it might seem strange or unconventional to some, for me, it’s what makes life worth living.

So, in short, my journey as a creative is all about chasing after something that might seem elusive, but that’s what makes it so exciting. Passion and creativity are more important than predictability and the safety of the ordinary. They can make a significant difference every day. It’s a wild ride, but one I wouldn’t trade for anything in the world.

How can we best help foster a strong, supportive environment for artists and creatives?

Supporting artists is crucial to nurturing a thriving creative ecosystem. Here are some ways we can make the world a better place for creatives:

1. Value the arts in education to encourage creativity early and provide financial support through grants, scholarships, and fair compensation for their work.

2. Create affordable and accessible spaces for artists to work, rehearse, perform, and exhibit and celebrate diversity in the arts to amplify underrepresented voices and perspectives.

3. Foster a culture that appreciates and values art by encouraging people to attend performances, visit galleries, and engage with various forms of artistic expression while building bridges between artists, industries, and communities through collaborations and networking events.

4. Adapt to the gig economy in the creative world by accommodating flexible structures and enact policies that support the arts, such as funding for cultural initiatives and tax incentives for patrons.

5. Foster public awareness about the importance of the arts and the challenges creatives face through advocacy.

By investing in artists, we’re investing in the very fabric of our cultural identity and the continuous evolution of our shared human experience.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://linktr.ee/nyjah.monique
• Instagram: nyjah.monique
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@Nyjahmonique
• Other: IG: @musemagazine.us IG: @astrologyaintreal

Image Credits
Amber Jenkins (Modern Color Photography) for the photos with the newspaper backgrounds