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

Hi Obi, how has your perspective on work-life balance evolved over time?
I think work life balance is more so finding your rhythm in life. If you align work with what you’re passionate about you will find your rhythm and flow. If you do what you love, you never work a day in your life because that passion will fuel and energize you instead of draining you.

Work is supposed to be enjoyable and so is life so when you find that rhythm between the two you’ll be in a different state of mind.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
Hello I would categorize myself as a hybrid creative, which means I express my talents creatively in many different ways. My career centers around my work as an Actor, Model, Creative Director & Entrepreneur. I believe my ability to perform these various jobs at a high level really sets me apart. I Have been blessed to work with some of the biggest named brand as a Talent, Crew and Entrepreneur which has given me a well rounded experience.

I am really excited about the foundation I have been able to establish in my career. I have worked with brands such as Nike, Under Armour, Facebook, McDonalds, Microsoft, Uber and many more. I have performed on some of the biggest stages in the world like the 2020 Grammys (Tyler The Creator). I have been blessed to act on Networks such as Amazon Prime, CBS & Sony.

Outside of my entertainment career, my business ventures have grown as well. In the past 2 years I have started 3 businesses that are doing really well. My Fashion Brand “Knotwtr” a Luxury Eyewear Brand is about to start selling apparel in 2023. My Car Rental business “Drop Top Fleet” had a great first year and is looking to expand our inventory in 2023. My production company “OBI Studios” launched where I have had the pleasure to Creative Direct & Produce for some of the biggest brands in the world such as Hyundai, United Airlines, Karl Kani and etc.

It was not easy to get to this point because it requires a lot of knowledge, resources, patience, faith, consistency and support. I have learned so much about myself and capacity. The most important aspect is a good foundation and faith because with a good foundation your business will be stable and not crumble. You need faith in order to see everything through. Faith is believing in the unseen, so you truly have to see it before it can manifest in your life.

I want the world to know that you are not confined to being one type of person. You can be multi dimensional and explore all the talents that God gave you. Thats the vision of my brand Knotwtr – Knot Neglecting Our Talents Willing To Take Risks. The brand is all about inspiring the next generation to be multi dimensional and explore all the different aspects of oneself.

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 would tell them to visit West Hollywood, The Hills & Beach Towns. I would eat anywhere that serves Sushi! If I had to pick my favorite Sushi spot it would be Yamashiro and Blue Ribbon Sushi At The Grove. I would grab a drink at Harriets Roof Top or Rooftop by JG. Then the night time vibes would be either a House Party, Event or if we end up going to the club I would choose Nightingale, Poppy or Penthouse.

Outside of the night life and fun activities. I would incorporate Hiking at Runyon Canyon, Yoga, Working out, Swimming and Chilling on the beach. That is usually what I am doing most of the time outside of work.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I have so many amazing supportive people in my life. I would have to start off with my family who is truly my backbone. I have an incredible God fearing mother and 3 siblings. My family definitely deserves the shout out., Along with my close friends…lol you know who you are. Wouldn’t be anything without my close knit group of people.

Website: www.knotwtr.com & www.obistudios.co

Instagram: @knotwtr @itsobinwankwo @obiistudios

Image Credits
Photographer: Taleah Meshae (@Taleahmeshae)
Cinematographer: Logan Regnier (@Loganregnier)
Stylist: Bani. G (@BaniBaby)

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