We’re looking forward to introducing you to Totiana White. Check out our conversation below.
Hi Totiana, 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: Would YOU hire you? Why or why not?
Absolutely — without hesitation. I would hire me because I consistently show up, not just for others but for myself. I’m committed to learning, growing and expanding my skill set so I can bring real value to every organization, program or city partner I work with.
I understand business, I listen and I’m always willing to be trained for the specific needs of a project. Even though I work across many gigs and initiatives, that versatility has become one of my greatest strengths. I’m able to take knowledge from every experience and apply it immediately.
At this point, my background speaks for itself — I’ve grown into a cultural leader, a program director, a community healer and a trusted city partner. And honestly? If I didn’t hire me… someone else definitely would.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
I’m MS. WHITE 1ST LADY OF FRISCO—artist, DJ, cultural leader and Founder/CEO of the BAY AREA HIP HOP & R&B MUSIC SHOWCASE. Born and raised in Bayview Hunters Point, San Francisco. I’ve dedicated my work to uplifting my city, amplifying our stories and creating stages for artists to shine. You can also catch me every Wednesday from 2–4pm hosting FRISCO’S FIRST LADY RADIO on KXSF 102.5FM, where I highlight talent, community voices and the heartbeat of the Bay.
What makes my brand special is the mix of artistry, leadership and real community care. I produce events, develop artists, partner with the city and build spaces that feel powerful, healing and fun. And outside of SF, I love the energy of Los Angeles and its creative scene—it inspires my music and keeps me connected to a bigger creative world.
At the end of the day, I’m here to create, represent and empower—with purpose, passion and pride.
Amazing, so let’s take a moment to go back in time. What’s a moment that really shaped how you see the world?
I actually have a few. Becoming a mother changed everything—it made me see life through a clearer, more purposeful lens. Living in Stockton California for four years also opened my eyes in a different way, showing me new people, new experiences and a sense of independence.
But the moment that truly shaped me was becoming an educated business owner. I wasn’t taught how to run a business; I had to learn it piece by piece, situation by situation. And instead of breaking me, those challenges made me stronger. I had to educate myself on everything—from leadership to operations—because the artists, communities, organizations, businesses and even city departments I work with in San Francisco, depends on me to show up prepared.
Leveling up is scary when you don’t know what’s coming next but having the right resources, support and mentorship helped me navigate it all. This journey shaped my life because now I’m doing things I never imagined I could do. And honestly? It means the world to me to continually outdo myself.
If you could say one kind thing to your younger self, what would it be?
You did it. You’re doing it. You survived it—and you’re still creating something beautiful out of every challenge. Don’t give up. Keep fighting the good fight. People will doubt you but only because they can’t dim what God already placed inside you. Your purpose is bigger than their opinions.
Yes, it will get hard. Yes, you’ll cry. But the blessings, the opportunities, the overflow waiting for you, It’s worth every step. So rest when you need to. Take care of your heart. Love yourself deeply. Don’t rush love—it will find you when it’s supposed to.
Be patient. Stay grounded. Remember exactly who you are. And whatever you do… never stop dreaming. You can do everything you put your mind to. And I love you!
Alright, so if you are open to it, let’s explore some philosophical questions that touch on your values and worldview. What are the biggest lies your industry tells itself?
One of the biggest lies in this industry is that the music and entertainment world is a “man’s world.” That women aren’t as powerful, as influential or as essential—and that couldn’t be further from the truth. Women run things behind the scenes, women lead from the front line and women bring just as much vision, strategy, talent and leadership as any man in the room.
Yes, sometimes women are silenced or overlooked but that doesn’t mean we aren’t carrying the weight, driving the culture and holding it down. We’re not just products—we’re creators, decision-makers, investors, innovators and leaders.
I’m one of those women. I may not be mainstream yet but I’m doing the real work in the cities, communities and districts that need it most. And that work matters just as much—if not more—than what goes on in the spotlight.
Okay, we’ve made it essentially to the end. One last question before you go. If you laid down your name, role, and possessions—what would remain?
What would remain is my spirit. I am a child of God before I am anything else. Before I ever had a birth name, a stage name or a nickname, God already called me by the name He whispered over me in the womb. Before I stepped into any title or role, He gave me purpose. And long before I had anything I now possess, I had His love, His protection, His guidance and His covering.
So if everything was stripped away—my name, my work, my accomplishments, my material things—I still wouldn’t be empty. I would still have Him. I would still have Heaven. And that’s the part of me that can never be taken.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.bayareahiphopnrnbmusicshowcase.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/msswhiteofficially?igsh=NTc4MTIwNjQ2YQ%3D%3D&utm_source=qr
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/totianawhite?utm_source=share&utm_campaign=share_via&utm_content=profile&utm_medium=ios_app
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/totiana.white?mibextid=wwXIfr
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCIQ2sG5IMZ6tNeo0ZrQzJmQ
- Other: https://linktr.ee/mswhite1stladyoffrisco
Image Credits
Johntiana Anderson
Marcella Sanchez
Don Bowden
so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.
