We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Michael Amanor. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Michael below.
Michael, so good to have you with us today. We’ve always been impressed with folks who have a very clear sense of purpose and so maybe we can jump right in and talk about how you found your purpose?
Growing up in Ghana, I always knew I was destined for something greater. Nothing I did ever felt like a “peak moment” — there was always this feeling that more was waiting for me. After earning my bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering, I felt the urge to explore what else the world had to offer. That curiosity led me to travel, and that’s where everything changed.
At the time, I had no idea that documenting my adventures would one day inspire thousands of people online. But after a few videos went viral and I started hearing from people who said my content pushed them to take their first trip, I realized this was bigger than me. It wasn’t just about travel — it was about storytelling, connection, and showing others what’s possible when you step outside your comfort zone.
That moment confirmed what I had always felt deep down: this is where I belong, and this is what I was meant to do.
Thanks for sharing that. So, before we get any further into our conversation, can you tell our readers a bit about yourself and what you’re working on?
I’m Michael Amanor, but most people know me as “Mikestyle.” I like to say I live a bit of a double life. By day, I’m a Project Manager and Engineer overseeing large-scale electrical construction projects, and by night, I’m a Digital Creator, Photographer, and Videographer telling stories through travel and lifestyle content.
That blend of structure and creativity defines who I am. My engineering background taught me precision and discipline, while my creative side pushes me to explore, express, and connect. Funny enough, both worlds fuel each other because managing multimillion-dollar projects sharpens my attention to detail as a creator, and content creation keeps me inspired and grounded in a world that often feels all business.
Over the years, I’ve partnered with brands like Virgin Voyages, Breathless Resorts, Secrets Resorts, Men’s Wearhouse, Gucci, and Prada to name a few. Each collaboration has been an opportunity to merge professionalism with personality — showing that creativity and structure can coexist. My audience sees more than just polished content; they see the humor, the hustle, and the lessons behind every frame.
Right now, I’m expanding Mikestyle Studios, my creative brand, to take on more storytelling-driven campaigns across travel, fashion, and lifestyle. I also run The Mikestyle Loft — my Airbnb and personal creative space — where I blend design, DIY, and hospitality to create something that feels uniquely mine.
More than anything, I want to inspire people — especially young Black professionals — to embrace every part of who they are. You can be the engineer in the meeting and the creative on the beach. You can chase stability and passion. I’m living proof that both paths can coexist beautifully.
Looking ahead, I’m focused on scaling Mikestyle Studios into a full-service agency that helps brands and creators tell authentic stories — the kind that connect, inspire, and stand the test of time.
Looking back, what do you think were the three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in your journey? What advice do you have for folks who are early in their journey in terms of how they can best develop or improve on these?
Looking back, I’d say the three most impactful qualities that shaped my journey are discipline, curiosity, and storytelling.
Discipline came from my engineering background. Working as a Project Manager taught me that creativity alone isn’t enough; you need structure, deadlines, and follow-through. I treat my creative projects the same way I treat construction projects: every vision needs a plan, and every plan needs execution. My advice for anyone starting out is that, don’t wait for motivation, build habits. The consistency will carry you even on the days when inspiration doesn’t show up.
Curiosity has been my compass. I’ve always been the type to ask, “what if?” What if I tried a new angle, a new destination, or a new platform? That mindset opened doors I didn’t even know existed. For new creators or professionals, curiosity is how you grow. Stay teachable, learn from others, try new tools, and never assume you’ve figured it all out.
And then there’s storytelling, which I believe changed everything for me. You can have the best camera, the best gear, or even the best degree, but if you can’t tell a story that makes people feel something, it won’t connect. Storytelling is what turns your journey into inspiration for someone else. For anyone early in their journey, I’d say don’t chase perfection but rather chase connection. Speak from experience, be authentic, and let people see your growth.
Those three qualities, discipline, curiosity, and storytelling, have carried me from Ghana to where I am today. They remind me that when structure meets passion, your story can reach places you never even dreamed of.
Any advice for folks feeling overwhelmed?
When I feel overwhelmed, I pause and breathe. Sometimes that’s all it takes to reset and remind myself that I don’t have to figure everything out in one day. I’ve learned to give myself grace in those moments instead of trying to power through.
Travel has also become my therapy. Whenever I can, I take a trip, even if it’s just a short getaway, to disconnect, clear my mind, and rejuvenate. Being in a new environment helps me put things in perspective and come back with fresh energy and ideas.
My advice to anyone who feels overwhelmed is to slow down and listen to yourself. Step away when you need to. Rest doesn’t mean you’re lazy; it means you’re recharging for what’s next. Sometimes the best way to move forward is to simply pause, breathe, and come back stronger.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.mikestylestudios.com
- Instagram: @iammikestyle
- Youtube: @iammikestyle
- Other: TikTok – @iammikestyle
