What do you see when you envision the future of the Belgian creative scene? For us, we see diverse, unique perspectives, representative of the world around us. That is exactly why we have been working on our 20-something issues since 2014. These editions feature 20 people in their (pre-)twenties who are a guide, an inspiration or an Earlybird for the young generation of today in Belgium. It is the greatest honour to step into the minds of some of the most innovative young people in Belgium; and learn about their dreams, fears, inspirations and even their celebrity crushes. This year’s list was co-curated with Kevin Kotahunyi, founder of Please Add Color.
Mankiyan
she/her, 24, DJ, Brussels
What do we & our readers need to remember about you?
My name seems like a good start, recently someone called me Myanmar.
Which film have you enjoyed lately?
Synecdoche, New York completely fucked me up.
What makes your heart go faster these days?
The days getting longer.
What are you doing daily at 9 am?
Having a hard time getting out of the shower.
What brings you satisfaction?
A fruitful dig session.
How do you relax?
Watching shitty TV shows like De Verhulstjes.
What’s one of your sources of inspiration that may surprise people?
I think my sources of inspiration are pretty unsurprising.
What would you like to be doing in 10 years’ time?
Retire.
What will the second part of 2022 bring you?
Hopefully some advancements in music production skills.
Who is the person that most influenced you throughout your development in life?
Super corny but probably my boyfriend.
What is the most important thing you’ve learned lately?
Always double check before removing your USB stick in front of 3000 dancers. You might accidentally unplug your B2B partner's track-playing stick out of CDJ's on which there is no emergency loop activated.
Is there anyone in your scene who needs more attention?
My confrater Vers, continuously surprising me with his razor-sharp selections.
Comfort food?
Anything chocolate.
Celebrity crush?
AliA
Most irrational fear?/Most rational fear?
I'm scared of the dark, sometimes rationally sometimes not.
What were you like as a child?
Very girly and annoying.
If you could have any superpower, what would it be?
Not needing sleep.
What’s the one thing you can’t live without?
Feta
Biggest red flag?
Mmm, I'm pretty bad at vexillology.
Mankiyan plays at at Club Détour: Cassius Select live, Jasmín & OJOO GYAL
10 June - Vilvoorde, BUDA
Free for members until midnight
Photo's by @luka.lazhuli and @jerrre
Different Class works with the interest of their community at heart.
Our work’s purpose is to foster a solid network for independent artists, those who love them, and those who want to support them. Become a member to contribute to the local Belgian art scene.
Read next
Our membership
