Everyday Talent Podcast

Don't limit Your Possibilities with Onika Powell (Ep 50)

Betty Xie Season 1 Episode 50

This week on the Everyday Talent Podcast, I'm thrilled to have Onika Powell, Artistic Director of VIBE Arts, join me for an inspiring conversation about carving your own creative path and building a fulfilling career in the arts.

Onika shares her incredible journey – from dancer to choreographer to arts leader – and how she navigated the challenges and opportunities that came her way.  We dive into the delicate balance between following your passions and making strategic career choices, and how your lived experience becomes a powerful asset. 

Key Takeaways:

  • 00:00 Intro 
  • 4:33  Onika’s Background 
  • 12:20 Defining choices that led to VIBE Arts 
  • 15:20 Experience VS Confidence
  • 19:00 Managing Time While Wearing Multiple Hats 
  • 24:00 Empowering Emerging Artists 
  • 30:36 Onika’s Secret Sauce in Supporting Artists 
  • 34:38 The Art of Finding a Mentor 


This episode is also available on Youtube. Watch it here:

https://youtu.be/jzX_qhwC4bg


About Onika: 

Onika Powell brings over 20 years of experience in the arts as a Creative with work spanning the Caribbean, Europe, Asia, and Africa. An alumnus of York University with a degree in Public Service and Liberal studies, she is the Artistic Director for the community arts organization, VIBE Arts; providing a professional focus on mentorship. In addition, Onika co-founded and maintains the role of Director of the non-profit dance company, D’LYFE and also GoLEFT Creatives, a creative service and consultation company. Part-time Professor at Centennial College, she is also a proud member of the international non-profit organization Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. Onika’s years of experience and passion for the arts provide insight within (and outside) the art sector.

Connect with Onika:

Email: onika@vibearts.ca.
Visit VIBE Arts at: www.vibearts.ca 


About Betty

Betty Xie is a creative and career coach for creatives. Her 1:1 coaching program has helped photographers, filmmakers, visual artists, arts leaders, and arts consultants to design and implement intentional growth in their practice so that they can make their art and make happier money. Check out her 1:1 coaching programs here: www.xiebetty.com/coaching

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The Everyday Talent Podcast is produced by Betty Xie and Benice Detoon.