local storiesSeptember 11, 2023

Life & Work with Yanaminah Thullah

Local Stories

Today we’d like to introduce you to Yanaminah Thullah.

Yanaminah Thullah

Hi Yanaminah, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
I’m a multidisciplinary creative and community builder. I was born and raised in Toronto, and I’m of Liberian and Sierra Leonean descent. Growing up, I was one of those kids that always did extracurriculars, whether it was track & field, jazz class, or modeling. My mom very much empowered me to do so and to be creative like herself. My first love was always writing (poems, songs, short stories, etc.). This allowed me to express myself emotionally in ways I couldn’t do verbally.

I moved to Ottawa seven years ago for university. I (once again) had many extracurriculars, mostly revolving around student politics and community engagement, especially for Black students. The institutional racism I and so many others were experiencing emboldened me to pursue a career centered around systemic change. This led to roles in project management, DEI, and policy at non-profits and in the government. This also led to extreme burnout and stifling my artistic pursuits for the sake of fitting a mold.

For the past year or so, I’ve prioritized resting and pursuing more creative mediums; I never thought it would lead me to a career in the arts. I started modeling again, performing spoken word, hosting events and recently became the Community Guest Curator at the Ottawa Art Gallery. Whenever I get on the mic to perform or host, when I’m in front of the camera or at the gallery, I feel at home and connected to my innermost being.

This career pivot has taught me how art is an important tool to enact change, amplify underrepresented narratives, and just essential for my wellbeing. Ultimately, I want to show how important is to break the mold, be multifaceted, and be the representation my inner child would’ve liked to see.

Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?

I wouldn’t say it was a smooth road to this point. Like most Black women, I face misogynoir which has impacted the opportunities I’ve received or my experience in certain spaces. I’ve faced imposter syndrome, financial struggles, mental illness but I find all of it informed the stories I tell through my art. Transitioning to this part of my career is directly connected to all the hardships I’ve faced so I’m grateful for the lessons learned and the healing I find in creativity. I’ve had people project certain ideas of success onto me and making assumptions about my life. What I’ve had even more than that is supportive colleagues and community that welcomed into this industry. This is what has made everything much smoother and reassuring in the journey.

Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?

I do spoken word, poetry, and curation. I also host creative events and model. One of my proudest accomplishments is curating an exhibit, “We do not dream of labour” at the Ottawa Art Gallery about rest in the black community. My vernissage sold out twice, and I was able to bring together the Black community and various communities to mingle and share their creativity. It was a beautiful sight. What sets me apart is that I’m multifaceted and always willing to gain a new skill or diversify my interests.

In terms of your work and the industry, what are some of the changes you are expecting to see over the next five to ten years?
I see more representation in the art world. I see more art forms being created and appreciated, especially integrating tech.

Contact Info:

Website: https://linktr.ee/yanaminah
Instagram: https://instagram.com/yanaminah?igshid=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/yanaminahthullah

Image Credits
Curtis Perry for the picture where I’m holding the mic and wearing a blue dress. Also, where I’m in front of the mic and wearing a yellow top ValeriiaArts for the picture in the all denim outfit Matthew Tyler priestly for the black and white photo

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