Meet Aminat Odunbaku: Creator, Athlete, Artist, Advocate

We had the good fortune of connecting with Aminat Odunbaku and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Aminat, what role has risk played in your life or career?
Man, I love taking risks. My life is all about taking risks, it’s shaped me to be who I am today. I believe in risks as betting on yourself. Believing in something so much that you’re willing to jump and not worry about the end result. At times I see risks a ways to prove to your soul that you’re living your life to the fullest. Fulfilling every need you desire. Now some would argue that risks aren’t safe or smart, but who’s here to not try. I’m not good with conformity, so it’s risk taking all day for me. Taking risks, got me to L.A. with $0 in my bank. Taking risks got me to launch a go fund me campaign to open a 6000 sq ft film studio in L.A. with only $6000. It’s what’s gotten me two professional cinematic cameras on a credit card. I’m always down to take risks and although some plans don’t pan out the way I expect, I at least learn, which is why we’re here, to learn, as life is just a huge classroom. I’m super proud of every risk I’ve ever taken.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
I was born to create. Whether it be in front or behind the camera. I currently still act, model, do photography, film, edit, etc. I love to create stories that matter. Working on things that humankind can benefit from fuels my fire. Right now, I’m working on a podcast called America’s DNA®, it highlights first gens, immigrants, and unique citizens of the U.S. It’s exciting because we’re constantly overlooked and hosting a platform that gives people a voice is always fulfilling. I don’t think much sets me apart from others because I believe we’re all connected, however I’m excited about my drive to never stop creating. I tried and I died internally. To get to this place I had to change my mindset. I had to step away from the world, shut everything down, and listen to my heart. Do what I wanted as opposed to what others wanted me to do. I couldn’t care much for what others thought because I’m me. No one is going to fully understand what’s in my soul, so seeking validation was something I had to eliminate. I’ve learned that when you care about what other people think you neglect who you really are. I also realized that patience is the key. I’ve been in L.A. for ten years and finally scratching the surface. You just can’t give up man, enjoy the process it happens so fast. Be grateful and if you haven’t found your purpose, just surrender, it’ll come.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
I am actually the worst when it comes to guests. I don’t really allow people to visit me because i’m a terrible host. I hate tours. When I travel I do not sight see, I go to places where I can relax. So my friends consider me boring. Plus being in LA for ten years I can only refer to a few restaurants “Shrimp Lover, Hoy Ka Thai, Mr. Furley’s and Dockweiler Beach.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
Growing up I was very stubborn, I didn’t like to work with people, I was a control freak, and very egocentric. The only thing that’s kept me going is the grace of God. God’s grace gave me the awareness to notice my weakness, and allowed me to surrender. Along with that I have the most supportive family and friends man. My mom, geez bless her for dealing with me, my siblings and the friends I’ve known since I was a teenager to name a few, William, Jackie, Shaniel, Ashley. They’re able to call me out and forgive me when I get crazy. Now a few celebs that have propelled me spiritually is Oprah Winfrey and Deepak Chopra, their 21 day meditations shifted my being and I’m forever grateful for their platform.

Website: www.odunbakumedia.com

Instagram: @aminatodunbaku

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aminatdunbaku/

Twitter: @aminatodunbaku

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/aminat.odun

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCmbNcZu2ooSh_6mmvB1sPOw

Image Credits
@odunbakumedia www.odunbakumedia.com