'Diversity makes beautiful music': This DJ strives to be a role model for marginalized youth
DJ O Show wants kids 'to turn on the television and see someone that looks like them'
Orene Askew is DJ O SHOW, a performer and DJ who uses her music to empower youth, encouraging them to stay focused, work hard and follow their dreams.
Growing up, Askew was disheartened by the lack of diverse representation in the media. And as an Indigenous, African-American, two-spirited person, she wanted to turn on the television and see other artists and role models that she could relate to. Finding a way to use her own art to that end is empowering — and has helped Askew maintain a strong and proud sense of self.
In this video, you'll meet the award-winning DJ and find out how her art and her identity inform each other.
The music you hear is "Winter" by Kinnie Starr. Special thanks to DTES Small Arts Grant, Gathering Our Voices Aboriginal Youth Conference, Squamish Canoe Family, The Squamish Nation and Tourism Vancouver.
See DJ O SHOW at her five-year anniversary party at The Portside Pub in Vancouver, November 12.
Watch CBC Arts: Exhibitionists on Friday nights at 12:30am (1am NT) and Sundays at 3:30pm (4pm NT) on CBC Television.