We recently had the chance to connect with Sunjori Michaela and have shared our conversation below.
Sunjori, a huge thanks to you for investing the time to share your wisdom with those who are seeking it. We think it’s so important for us to share stories with our neighbors, friends and community because knowledge multiples when we share with each other. Let’s jump in: What are you being called to do now, that you may have been afraid of before?
During this current moment in my life, I feel called to show myself authentically. Throughout my creative career, each milestone has required me to push my personality, my spirit, and my overall self to the world. With each push there was an awakening of my confidence. Presenting myself in ways I couldn’t have imagined doing a few years ago.
Now at 24, soon to be 25, God is continuing to push me to present myself and my talents to the world. Each year I enter a new journey of not being afraid to be me, authentically.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
Since my last interview with Voyage ATL, my career trajectory has shifted in meaningful ways. I rediscovered my passion for writing and blended it with my love for art, which led to the creation of Sunni Society—a blog and magazine dedicated to highlighting the stories of emerging and rising artists. In a world saturated with digital media and constant technological upgrades, I wanted to return to the fundamentals.
In 2023, I presented my brand at a business competition and won a $500 prize to jumpstart Sunni Society. With that funding, I released two magazine volumes: Let’s Get Physical Vol. 1, which explored the importance of physical media in a digital world and the often-overlooked relationship between art and science, and Stage & Canvas: Stories of Local Visionaries, which showcased the journeys of five artists making an impact in their cities and communities.
Beyond the magazine, I also focused on building the blog and social presence. Through content like “Creator of the Month” and “Sunni’s Hot Takes,” I’ve been able to cultivate a community of artists and art lovers whose support remains steady—even during my quieter periods. The desire for what Sunni Society offers is truly enduring.
Okay, so here’s a deep one: Who taught you the most about work?
I’ve had many influences, mentors, and models who taught me the importance of work, but my parents have been the main point of that area in my life.
If you could say one kind thing to your younger self, what would it be?
One of the kind things I would say to my younger self is, “You’re more than a star; you’re the whole universe.”
Sure, so let’s go deeper into your values and how you think. Is the public version of you the real you?
I would say that the public version of me is a close representation of the real me. I believe there are aspects of myself that I keep private, sharing them only with my closest relationships. In my opinion, the world isn’t always deserving of your true self; everyone won’t always treat you with care or have the best intentions. That’s not to say you have to shut the world out and hide completely, but it’s always good to save some things for just your enjoyment.
Before we go, we’d love to hear your thoughts on some longer-run, legacy type questions. What do you understand deeply that most people don’t?
Life is far too precious to stay stuck in things that don’t fulfill you. It’s okay to walk away from what no longer serves you, whether that’s a place, a person, or a job, and start fresh. Holding on to the mundane while life passes you by is not the move. Do what your spirit is calling you to do. You’re being pushed for a reason.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.sunnisociety.blog/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sunni.society/
Image Credits
@copaceticvision
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