Brand Management & Marketing Strategist at UBA Ghana | Mobile DJ | Master of Ceremony
Hello, My name is Daniel Oko Djanie, known as DJ Siren. Born on December 9th, 1987, to Mrs. Esther Naadu Lartey and Mr. George Neequaye Djanie, I embarked on a journey of resilience and entrepreneurship from an early age. After completing my basic education at Achimota Primary and JHS, and secondary education at Labone Senior High School, I faced the challenge of financial difficulties within my family. Motivated to contribute and support my family, my twin sister, and two senior brothers, we delved into small-scale business ventures. Starting with selling ice cream in cups (now known as Abelewas) to friends in the neighborhood, our entrepreneurial spirit grew. We expanded our business to school, offering various items like honey-top biscuits, Fruity Juice, Piccadilly biscuits, Jolly Juice, and more, to generate extra income. During this period, I discovered my passion for music and honed my DJ skills. Organizing "Our Day Jamms" with the sound system my father brought for sales became a highlight of my primary school years. In Junior High School, I had the privilege of becoming the Entertainment Prefect without having to go through the usual vetting process, setting a precedent.
As I progressed to the University of Ghana, Legon, I was elected as the Entertainment Secretary for Mensah Sarbah Hall in 2010, further fueling my love for organizing events and bringing people together. Alongside my passion for entertainment, I remained active in sports, excelling as a 100m and 200m athlete and representing Ghana in the under-18 national rugby team. My dedication and commitment to rugby led me to become the Head of Brands & Marketing for the Rugby League Federation Ghana from 2019 to January 2023. Additionally, I established my own DJ brand, continuously sharing my love for music through performances that have lasted to this day. My professional journey began during my national service with MTN, followed by roles at Swivel Marketing, ReZultz Advertising, Innova DDB, Champs Sports Bar, Touchpoint Magna Carta, BTL Marketing Solutions, and my current position at UBA Ghana. While navigating the corporate world, I also pursued my entrepreneurial aspirations by founding Events Bureau GH, a marketing agency, although I had to temporarily pause its operations due to financial constraints.
Combining my career in brands and marketing with my talent as a DJ has been a rewarding experience. Through dedication, focus, and a positive mindset, I have learned that anything is achievable when you put your mind to it.
What were the biggest initial hurdles you faced and how did you overcome them?
As I reflect on my journey, I encountered several significant hurdles in the early stages of my career and personal pursuits. However, through determination and resilience, I managed to overcome them and continue moving forward. Here are some of the biggest initial hurdles I faced and the strategies I employed to overcome them:
Balancing Education and Passions: Juggling academic responsibilities with my passion for entertainment and sports was a significant challenge. To overcome this hurdle, I learned to prioritize and manage my time effectively. I set clear goals, developed a structured schedule, and made the most of every opportunity. This allowed me to excel academically while actively participating in extracurricular activities that fueled my interests.
Overcoming Vetting Challenges: Being appointed as the Entertainment Prefect in boarding school without having to go through the usual vetting process was an unexpected opportunity. However, it also brought its own set of challenges. To overcome any doubts or skepticism, I focused on proving myself through hard work, dedication, and consistently delivering quality results. By demonstrating my commitment and abilities, I gained the trust and respect of my peers and superiors.
Navigating Career Transitions: Transitioning between different organizations and industries can be a daunting task, especially when faced with unfamiliar environments and expectations. To overcome this hurdle, I embraced a growth mindset and a willingness to learn. I actively sought out opportunities for professional development, expanded my network, and remained adaptable and open to new experiences. By continuously building my skills and knowledge, I positioned myself for success in each new endeavor.
Overall, my ability to overcome these initial hurdles was driven by a combination of perseverance, adaptability, and a growth mindset. By embracing challenges as opportunities for growth and staying committed to my passions, I was able to navigate through obstacles and continue progressing on my chosen path.
What advice would you offer to young individuals, both locally and internationally, who are embarking on their careers or pursuing their passions?
To young individuals embarking on their careers or pursuing their passions, I offer the following advice:
Follow Your Passion: Identify what truly ignites your enthusiasm and fuels your drive. Pursue a career or path that aligns with your interests and values. When you're passionate about what you do, it becomes easier to stay motivated and committed to your goals.
Embrace Continuous Learning: Be open to learning and acquiring new skills throughout your journey. Seek opportunities for growth, whether through formal education, mentorship, workshops, or online resources. The more you invest in expanding your knowledge and expertise, the more valuable you become in your chosen field.
Set Clear Goals: Establish clear, measurable, and realistic goals for yourself. Break them down into smaller milestones to track your progress. Goals provide direction and a sense of purpose, helping you stay focused and motivated even during challenging times.
Embrace Failure and Learn from It: Don't be afraid to take risks and embrace failure as a stepping stone to success. Learn from your mistakes, adapt, and use setbacks as opportunities for growth and improvement. Resilience and perseverance are key qualities that will propel you forward in your career.
Build a Strong Network: Surround yourself with supportive individuals who share your interests and ambitions. Build relationships with mentors, peers, and professionals in your field. Networking opens doors to opportunities, provides valuable advice, and can offer support during your career journey.
Seek Feedback and Constructive Criticism: Be open to receiving feedback and constructive criticism. It helps you grow and improve your skills. Actively seek input from mentors, colleagues, and trusted individuals who can provide valuable insights and help you refine your craft.
Embrace Professional Development: Stay up-to-date with industry trends, advancements, and emerging technologies. Attend conferences, workshops, and seminars to expand your knowledge and stay relevant in your field. Continuously invest in your professional development to remain competitive.
Cultivate a Strong Work Ethic: Success is often the result of hard work, dedication, and discipline. Cultivate a strong work ethic by setting high standards for yourself and consistently putting in the effort required to achieve your goals. Be reliable, punctual, and take pride in your work.
Embrace Resilience and Perseverance: Challenges and setbacks are inevitable. Develop resilience and perseverance to overcome obstacles and keep pushing forward. Believe in yourself, stay positive, and maintain a long-term perspective on your journey.
Find Work-Life Balance: While pursuing your career or passion, remember to take care of yourself. Strive for a healthy work-life balance to prevent burnout and maintain overall well-being. Make time for hobbies, self-care, and relationships outside of work.
Remember, success looks different for everyone. Define what success means to you and build a career or pursue a passion that aligns with your own definition. Stay true to yourself, embrace opportunities, and remain committed to your growth and development.
Social Media Handles:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/djsiren1/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/daniel.djSiren/