Daily Inspiration: Meet Ginika O

Today we’d like to introduce you to Ginika O

Hi Ginika , can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?

Growing up, I always had passion in multimedia. As a little girl growing up in Lagos, Nigeria I dreamt of becoming an actress; as I got older my love for producing developed. I knew I was going to either be in front of or behind the camera. The dream is still in play btw 🙂

In 2006/2007 my older sister gifted me my first digital camera – back in the early Facebook era. I was the only one in my friend group who had a camera, so I instantly became the designated photographer. The interest for photography began; I love to capture moments and memories that would last forever.

Fast forward to moving to Oakland, CA in 2014 when the journey began and – “El LAy to the Bay” was birthed.

El LAy To The BAY is a multimedia brand that showcases dynamic digital content and culture through the lens of a Nigerian millennial woman who has lived in Lagos, Los Angeles and Oakland, CA.

Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?

The road has definitely not been smooth or easy. The journey is still happening – but that really never ends.

Consistency and lack of resources have been some of the struggles I have had along the way. Balancing a 9-5 corporate job and staying consistent in pursuing my creative journey has brought on challenges that I do know I can overcome. A big obstacle I also face is the strive for perfection and being too hard on my work, which can be crippling at times.

Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?

A multi-hyphenated being 

I’m a Fashion and Lifestyle content creator. My content consistently highlights and showcases Black owned brands, artists and businesses.

I write, star in and produce a short form content web series called “What to expect when you’re in your 30s” (check it out on YouTube: El LAy to The Bay)

In addition to that, I’m a freelance photographer and videographer.

I believe what sets me apart is showing up as my true self in-person and online. As cliche as that sounds, I believe that’s lost a lot in these social media streets. I create content based on my own interests, what’s inspirational to me and not solely on trends. My style is unique in its own way and has a wide range.

Are there any apps, books, podcasts, blogs or other resources you think our readers should check out?

Adobe Creative Suite is a creative’s workshop. I use Photoshop, Lightroom for my photo edits and Premiere Pro to edit my long form videos.

Apps like Inshot and CapCut are great for short form videos for Instagram and TikTok.

Canva is also a really good tool that is ever expanding. Great for graphic design and web & social media templates.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.ellaytothebay.com
• Instagram: https://instagram.com/geekneekwa and https://www.instagram.com/ellaytothebay
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@ELLAYTOTHEBAY1

Image Credits:
@Ellaytothebay