We’re looking forward to introducing you to Jei Romanes. Check out our conversation below.
Hi Jei, thank you so much for taking time out of your busy day to share your story, experiences and insights with our readers. Let’s jump right in with an interesting one: Are you walking a path—or wandering?
I’d say I’m a little bit of both. I definitely have a sense of where I want to go, but I’ve never been afraid to wander a little along the way. For me, wandering isn’t about being lost, it’s about staying open, learning new things, and letting curiosity shape the journey. Sometimes that means putting something on the back burner if a more exciting opportunity shows up, or doing things a little unconventionally. I’m inspired by those who’ve walked before me and achieved incredible things, but I’ve also learned that stepping off the beaten path is often where the most meaningful discoveries happen.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
I’m Jei, co-founder of Wanderlust Creatives and Archipelago Vocal Project. Music and photography have both been huge parts of my life for as long as I can remember. Photography became my career more than ten years ago, and it’s taken me to incredible places, introduced me to amazing people, and taught me how powerful storytelling can be. That journey eventually circled me back to my first love – music. Co-founding Archipelago Vocal Project felt like a natural step, because it combines that same love for art and connection, while giving me the chance to celebrate Southeast Asian culture and build community through song. In the end, whether it’s behind a camera or in front of a choir, it’s all about capturing and creating moments that bring people together.
Amazing, so let’s take a moment to go back in time. What did you believe about yourself as a child that you no longer believe?
Growing up in a small town where everyone knew everyone, I was made to believe that there was only one path to success and only one standard to measure up to. There was always a ‘model child’ that teachers wanted us to emulate, and it felt like we were constantly being judged by that single mold. I used to think that fitting in and following that standard was the only way to be liked and to succeed. I don’t believe that anymore. Once I started listening to myself, leaning into my own truth, and embracing what makes me different, I felt empowered. Letting go of people-pleasing and choosing authenticity made me both happier and freer. I’ve learned that success doesn’t come from fitting into someone else’s standard – it comes from creating your own.
What did suffering teach you that success never could?
Suffering taught me the value of asking for help. Growing up in a broken, somewhat dysfunctional family, I became independent really early, taking care of myself was just what I had to do. For a long time, asking for help felt like a luxury I couldn’t afford. But in my late teens and early twenties, I started to realize that people are kind and often willing to help, especially if you’re brave enough to ask. That lesson, that vulnerability can create connection, is something success alone could never have taught me.
Next, maybe we can discuss some of your foundational philosophies and views? Is the public version of you the real you?
Yes, the public version of me is real. I’m usually an open book, and what people see is genuinely who I am. But over time, I’ve also learned the importance of boundaries. Not everyone will be happy for you, and not everyone deserves full access to your life. So while the public me is authentic, there are parts of myself that I reserve for the people who truly matter and are intentional about being part of my life. In that sense, I’m both real and private at the same time.
Thank you so much for all of your openness so far. Maybe we can close with a future oriented question. What will you regret not doing?
Travel, for sure. The irony is I’m scared of flying, I’m usually the one silently negotiating with the plane during turbulence. But I’m slowly getting better, and honestly, even with the fear, I’ve never regretted investing in travel. Jet lag disappears, the nerves calm down, but the experiences stick with you forever.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://wanderlustcreatives.com
- Instagram: @jeiboi_
