We had the good fortune of connecting with Kwaejo Manu and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Kwaejo, how do you think about risk?
I think about risks as the differentiating factor that separates the successful from the average. A quote I like to keep at the forefront of everything I do is “You can’t be great doing the same thing that everyone else is doing”. With a mindset like that I’m always encouraged to be the one who’s gonna dare to take the risk and divert from the norms or social constructs that most adhere to. Almost everything I’ve attainted has solely been a result of me taking some sort of risk. For whatever reason there aren’t many things I’ve accomplished or attained that simply just fell into my lap. The majority of people in life are playing defense. They keep themselves guarded, protect themselves from the harsh realities of life. However, when you switch both your perspective and the play to where you start playing offence, you start looking for the risks to take, to get the win that you deserve.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I’m an Artistic Hustler, the literal combination of an artist and hustler. In the art form I make music and bring visuals to life. I would say my existence is a form of art in the flesh. I’m also a hustler, I like to make things happen. From having a simple vision to executing business ventures. What sets me apart from the majority of people is my ability to take risks. I’m always going to be the one who’s comfortable to take the risks that the majority won’t. I’m extremely proud of myself for being able to immerse myself around some of the biggest entertainers in the industry (Drake, DMX, Queen Latifah, Cardi B, etc) by myself, off my own will, with no invitation. There’s one simple answer for me getting to where I am today, and that would be, not giving up. I never gave up, I never cared about what other people thought, and I was always willing to put ME first before or over anyone in order for me to achieve my dreams and goals. I’m still far from destination that has been pre-determined for me however, achieving what I have up until this date has been far from easy so I’m happy to have come this far. The mind is a powerful thing, it is also a cheat code and many people are unaware of its power. I always let my mind be focused, I never let anyone interfere with my mind. Anything close to interrupting my mind or vision gets cut off instantly and never reflected on, possibly not even remembered. If there’s one thing I’ve learned it’s this, if whatever you dare to do won’t kill you, do dat shit! You’ll always wonder what the possibilities could have been. I would only advise doing as I said for things you have a deep burning passion for, not everything that interests you.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
I would take them to the gym for an intense workout but, describe it as some physical activity. Another to do for sure would be to visit one of the upper echelon diners in the city. I’m a fan of Hibachi and the 180 in the downtown area of Toronto. Other days I would cook a meal that is of their preference. I’m into cooking! In Toronto, majority of the time it’s cold and there isn’t much to do but, in the summer the beach, backyard bbqs, and rooftop patio events are the things I like to frequent. Those are the hotspots we would be at enjoying living in the moment.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
God first, for never letting me stray too far from my purpose, and for always walking with me. Second would be my Mother for being a phenomenal support system and a source of positive inspiration no matter what a situation may be. Third would be my siblings and very few close friends who have supported me constantly through my aspiring career. Forth would be the people I interact with briefly who get a glimpse of me and what I’m about and turn into supporters forever.

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kwaejo/?hl=en

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCb53gm_6hb0jnrf3fOVh7yA

Image Credits
Jordan Sorsioes

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