Beyond the 9-to-5: Blending Tech & Creative Passion

In a world that often encourages specialisation, Shirū has carved a unique path that blends creativity, culture, and career. As an African Electronic Dance Music DJ and a tech marketer, she’s proof that passion and professionalism can coexist. Drawing from her rich Kikuyu and Zulu heritage, Shirū’s music tells stories of identity while her career amplifies innovative brand narratives.

You mentioned that you're in marketing for a tech startup, but you also have this exciting side as an Afrohouse DJ. We're curious to learn how you’re balancing the two and whether you might eventually choose one over the other. To start, could you share a bit about your background?

I''ve always been drawn to creative things. As a child, I was into storytelling, music, and a lot of other creative stuff. When I went to university, I decided to focus on my strengths, doing what I love rather than struggling through something I wasn’t passionate about. I attended Vega and studied Strategic Communications, which led me to become a Brand Strategist. I developed a strong interest in digital storytelling, and that’s how I got into digital marketing and agency work.

In an agency setting, especially with branding, you get exposed to different industries and people. That’s how I got introduced to the Afrohouse community. I started attending events, made friends, and immersed myself in the culture. Eventually, I transitioned from just being a listener to being a cultural contributor. I’m glad I took my time to understand the music and the people before becoming a DJ. Now, balancing both careers is a way for me to combine storytelling in different forms. As a brand strategist, I create experiences and narratives for brands, and as a DJ, I tell stories through music. Both have a lot of similarities. As for choosing one, I’m passionate about both, so for now, I’m sticking with both.

Are there any skills you use as a DJ that overlap with your work in marketing?

Definitely. One major skill is knowing your audience. In marketing, you need to understand who you’re speaking to and how to connect with them. It’s similar in DJing—you have to read the room and understand what the crowd wants. It’s about being able to gauge the vibe as soon as you walk in, just like you would in a marketing campaign.

I imagine you curate your playlists before an event. What happens if you get there and the crowd isn’t feeling your selection?

That can be stressful! But it helps to have a wide variety of music because people’s tastes aren’t one-dimensional. Someone who likes Amapiano might also enjoy 3-step, for instance. Being an open-minded DJ means being prepared to meet the crowd halfway. You need to have a taste for different genres to adapt when the vibe changes.

Is there a specific reason why Afrohouse?

Afrohouse is just my favourite genre. But I’m not strictly limited to it, I also enjoy 3-step, Afrotech, and other African electronic genres. Afrohouse just resonates with me on a personal level and connects me to myself. I try not to box myself into one genre.

You said earlier that you’re not sure if you’ll ever choose between your two careers. How do you balance both, especially since most people struggle with just one job?

The biggest lesson I’ve learned is to lean on my community. Sharing responsibilities and helping each other makes it more manageable. I’m also very strict with my time and set clear boundaries. It’s essential to prioritize self-care and know when to say “no” to invitations or distractions. Balancing everything is about being disciplined and intentional with your schedule.

How did your community react when you decided to blend your career and your passion for DJing?

My friends knew I always wanted to be a DJ, so they were supportive. They were a bit surprised when I finally made the leap, but they were happy for me. In the Afrohouse scene, I felt welcomed from the start. My family was a bit concerned, but once they saw I was making it work, they felt more at ease. It’s important to have a plan and show that you’re serious about making it sustainable.

You’re lucky that your job and passion both revolve around creativity and storytelling. But some people feel stuck between their stable careers and their passions. What advice would you give to someone in that situation?

Learn as much as you can about your passion and connect with people who can guide you. Be strategic about how you approach it. Sometimes generic advice doesn’t fit your specific context, so make a plan and start small. Even just networking or gaining insights from others in the field can help. Don’t let the need to pay bills stop you from pursuing what lights you up.

What’s one major lesson from DJing that applies to life and career growth?

Just start. You don’t need to be perfect from the get-go. Mistakes are part of the journey. As a DJ, messing up in front of an audience can be embarrassing, but it teaches resilience and builds character. Trust yourself to improve with time and experience.

The Cheat Code: Quick Tips from Shirū

Favourite Afrohouse track to boost confidence? Djorge Cadete feat. Liliana Almeida - Give You Wings

A tech marketing skill that helps in DJing?

Understanding people, reading the room and the crowd, just like knowing your audience in marketing.

One thing people don’t realize about being a DJ?

We’re constantly thinking, planning the next song, managing the equipment, and reading the crowd. It’s more mentally engaging than it looks.

Your go-to mantra when things feel overwhelming?

“Everything will work out.” I remind myself that tough moments won’t last forever, and things will eventually fall into place.

Shirū is a rising African Electronic DJ based in Johannesburg who primarily dances through Afrohouse and its subgenres. Being of both Kikuyu and Zulu origin, she draws her cardinal inspiration from a rich culturally blended background. She brings a fresh perspective to the realm of electronic music weaving traditional and contemporary electronic sounds and creating a captivating and authentic listening experience reflective of her origin and influences.