Galactajeeniius: The Duo Creating A Space For Fun & Freedom [Editorial]

The fusion of minds can birth remarkable endeavors. Galactajeeniius emerges as a powerhouse fusion between Yoms, the visionary behind Galactamelanin, and Jeeniius, a prominent DJ in London's music scene. Originating from a casual conversation, the partnership swiftly materialized, driven by shared determination and a passion for making things happen. Galactajeeniius is more than a musical endeavor; it's a movement, designed to be a safe haven for women to revel in freedom and self-expression. Upholding strict standards of respect, the duo sets the tone for an inclusive environment with zero tolerance for anything less.

As Galactajeeniius charts its course into the future, the dynamic duo envisions expansion into different industries, aiming to become a leading force that inspires women to pursue their dreams unapologetically. The anticipation builds with the promise of an upcoming spicy drinking card game and a spirited party tour across various cities in 2024. Reflecting on their journey, Yoms and Jeeniius highlight the sell-out success of their spontaneous parties as a testament to their ability to transform impromptu ideas into unforgettable experiences.

Beyond the beats and rhythms, Yoms and Jeeniius share insights into their personal philosophies. Yoms, wearing multiple hats as founder, creative director, and designer, emphasizes the legacy of her brand beyond the spotlight. Jeeniius, reflecting on her DJ career, imparts a valuable lesson on the importance of networking alongside talent. With a shared vision of empowerment, community engagement, and infectious energy, Galactajeeniius is poised to carve a distinctive path in the creative realm. As the beats resonate and the journey unfolds, this collaborative force promises an inspiring blend of music, empowerment, and unstoppable dreams.

CREDITS

Interview by Artitaya Konkan

Photography by Lilly Thompson 

Styling by Brae Gerrie

Creative Direction by Yoma Casey

Makeup by Gwen Ryan 

Hair by Jaime Casey

Creative Assistant Jennifer Onwuta and  Mariana Jaguite and Artitaya Konkan 

Bts Videography Yen Murakami 

What inspired the creation of Galactajeeniius? 

GJ: It stemmed from a passing conversation between us about partnering up one day and that day came sooner than we thought, we’re both happy to finally find another person that has a similar drive & motivation to get sh*t done! 

What role do you see it playing in the industry? 

GJ: We created Galactajeeniius to be a safe space for women to have fun, be free, and express themselves. Our standards require that men must be respectful, that’s just the standard and we have 0 tolerance for anything that goes against that. 

Where do you see Galactajeeniius in 1 year? 

GJ: We wanna expand and establish ourselves in different industries and be a leading force, inspiring women to chase their dreams and choose themselves always. 

“WE RECOGNISE THAT BLACK WOMEN ARE THE BLUEPRINT, OFTEN IMITATED BUT RARELY ACKNOWLEDGED.”

Can you share any memorable moments or milestones that have stood out since you started Galactajeeniius? 

GJ: Yes! Selling out all 3 of our parties. We’re really proud of this because we had less time to plan each one - they were all spontaneous.

Who is your style icon, and why? 

Yoms: Jt, Mowalola & Rihanna. You can just tell they dress how they feel and that’s the best way. 

Jeeniius: I don’t really have a specific style icon, I just vibe. However, if I were to choose one it would be Rihanna. 

How do you stay confident in a world that often disregards black women?

We recognise that black women are the blueprint, often imitated but rarely acknowledged. Knowing this is our superpower. 

How do you use your platform to make a positive impact on others?

We post women all day long on our Twitter to show our appreciation for the bad b*tches that keep us going aha and in the future, we plan on giving back to the community. 

Yoms, the visionary force behind Galactamelanin and one-half of the dynamic duo that forms Galactajeeniius, is a creative luminary on a mission to redefine standards and inspire change. The genesis of her journey started with a spontaneous idea—an Instagram page celebrating the diverse beauty of black women. From that moment, Yoms's vision expanded, evolving into a collective that embraces alternative expressions of black femininity. While Yoms stands at the helm of Galactamelanin, she purposefully avoids the spotlight, seeing her dreams as entities larger than herself. Her brand, she believes, has the power to carry itself, shining a light on the collective and the team's collective achievements.

“I JUST FEEL LIKE MY DREAMS ARE BIGGER THAN ME, SO I DON’T NEED TO BE IN THE SPOTLIGHT. MY BRAND IS ABLE TO CARRY ITSELF, I HAVE MULTIPLE PEOPLE IN MY COLLECTIVE SO I WANNA SHINE A LIGHT ON THEM TOO”

How and why did you start Galactamelanin?

Y: It was a random idea, I started an Instagram page to show love to all different types of black women and then the vision just kept expanding. I had an alternative shoot for black women with a team I had at the time, then I just said we might as well become a collective. That’s how it started!

Being a founder, creative director, designer, etc for multiple sub-brands, how do you keep up with everything/attending to each sub brands?

Y: I honestly don’t know but I try my best to be organised and only do things I’m passionate about, I’m constantly educating myself on how I can make work easier for me and my team. 

It’s not easy but because of the goals and passion, I’m able to make it happen!

Why do you avoid the spotlight? 

Y: Honestly, I just feel like my dreams are bigger than me, so I don’t need to be in the spotlight. My brand is able to carry itself, I have multiple people in my collective so I wanna shine a light on them too and I still model and do other things with myself. I just don’t care as much to be seen. I love that my brand can exist outside of me and when I’m not here anymore, will hopefully have a legacy similar to how Bratz is still relevant till this day. 

Jeeniius, the musical maestro and the other half of the electrifying collaboration that is Galactajeeniius, stands as a recognized DJ in the pulsating heart of London's music scene. Her journey into the realm of beats and rhythms began at a university house party. Since then, her sets have taken her across the UK, playing at festivals and parties for the likes of Glastonbury, Wireless and many more.

Jeeniius embodies the spirit of Galactajeeniius, where beats, creativity, and community converge. Her dedication to the craft and her commitment to connecting with audiences set the stage for an exciting journey as Galactajeeniius continues to redefine the intersection of music, empowerment, and unforgettable experiences.

What sparked your interest in becoming a DJ?

J: I went to a house party in uni and I saw two DJs playing in the kitchen. I was fascinated with the decks, so I stood in front of them for the rest of the party. I just knew that’s what I wanted to do from then.

What is the biggest lesson you’d say you’ve learned as a DJ?

J: Your talent can only take you so far, you need to make sure you’re outside networking. It’s great to be good at what you do but you need to be able to connect with people to go further. 

Is there anything else you’re interested in other than DJing? 

J: Doing my makeup, I’d love to have a makeup collab in the future. 

Who would be in your dream studio session?

Kanye West, Pharrell, Playboi Carti, Rihanna, Gunna.

Any advice for someone who wants to also become a DJ? Especially women. 

J: Just do it and don’t listen to sexist men. 

Is there a country you’d love to DJ in the most? if so, where?

J: America, New York. Soon come!

Can you share community feedback that touched you personally?

GJ: People flying in & the demand for our parties in other countries, hence why we’re going on tour. 

Can you share a piece of advice you received early in your career that still resonates with you today? 

Yoms: If you can visualise it you can bring it to life. 

Jeeniius: Stop worrying so much. It’s all gonna be fine. 

Can you tease any upcoming releases or projects from Galactajeeniius? 

GJ: Hmm.. Well, we have an exciting drinking card game coming very soon. It’s really spicy so we’re so excited to share it with everyone. 

What song is your mood for 2024?

B*tch better have my money - Rihanna. Our playlist is out now, check it out on Spotify @galactamelanin 

What are the plans for 2024? 

GJ:We will be going on a party tour this year, keep an eye out for all the cities!