Meet Nii “prince” Engmann

We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Nii “prince” Engmann. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Nii “Prince” below.

Nii “Prince”, thank you so much for joining us today. Let’s jump right into something we’re really interested in hearing about from you – being the only one in the room. So many of us find ourselves as the only woman in the room, the only immigrant or the only artist in the room, etc. Can you talk to us about how you have learned to be effective and successful in situations where you are the only one in the room like you?

I learned to lean into my identity quite strongly. While I was coming up in my industry, there weren’t many black men if any at all doing what I was pursuing in my city. Because of that, I stood out. Sometimes me standing out granted me opportunities like my first role in Disney’s Descendants 2. And other times I was rejected from opportunities because I stood out too much. It all taught me that what is for me will come to me as long as I stay prepared by understanding my strengths and weaknesses and refining what makes me, me.

Appreciate the insights and wisdom. Before we dig deeper and ask you about the skills that matter and more, maybe you can tell our readers about yourself?

I’m an actor, dancer, teacher and choreographer from Canada. I’ve had the opportunity to work in the music, film, tv and commercial industry. I’’ve also been blessed to travel the world teaching dance. My mission has always been to create a safe environment for people to not only learn about themselves, but also for them to grow into the best versions of themselves. That led me to create one of my current ventures in Canada, “Untitled”. “Untitled” is a company where like minded individual have gathered to hone and refine their craft, namely dance. Through intensives, lectures, meetings etc., there have been many movement artists in the country that have found a home in the company. It has also given me access to a hard-working, diverse pool of dancers to pull from when I choreograph or build a project whether in Canada or internationally.

There is so much advice out there about all the different skills and qualities folks need to develop in order to succeed in today’s highly competitive environment and often it can feel overwhelming. So, if we had to break it down to just the three that matter most, which three skills or qualities would you focus on?

Curiosity, Adaptability, Stability

I definitely think these 3 qualities have been some of the most vital in my journey. I’m a learner at my core and I’m especially curious about the things I love. This high level of curiosity has allowed me to learn information and skills that help me through my journey
Adaptability allows me to navigate the difference spaces I enter with my best foot forward. This is a skill I think everyone should refine. But also making sure that in your adaptation you are not compromising your values. That’s where stability comes into play – by understanding and solidifying your core values, no matter what environment you find yourself in you won’t compromise on the non-negotiable. This has allowed me to step into any space as my full self while also allowing myself room for growth and change.

To close, maybe we can chat about your parents and what they did that was particularly impactful for you?

My parents allowed me to pursue my passion, which is something I can’t thank them enough for. As a first generation-Ghanaian, the arts are not a typical career. But my parents saw my heart for my craft and supported and support me in the decisions I continue to make for myself career-wise. This kind of support let me approach my passion with a drive that has allowed me to accomplish everything I have.. and knowing I have their support will allow me to accomplish so much more.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: @princenii

Image Credits

Jaime Lopez Photograpy
Wei Chong Photography