Today we’d like to introduce you to Mali Kaluve.
Hi Mali, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today.
Hi, my name is Mali, which is actually the Swahili word for wealth. I am a Kenyan multi-faceted creative specializing in cinematography, directing, and photography. My journey to where I am today has been shaped by various significant milestones and experiences.
In 2021, I made a life-changing move from Kenya to the USA. Prior to that, I had the incredible opportunity to work for NRG Radio Kenya, which provided me with a different outlook on my art and a deeper interest in the entertainment industry. Additionally, during the challenging times of the COVID-19 pandemic, I started my own spirituality podcast Mindful Mali, which allowed me to explore new avenues of creative expression.
It’s safe to say there’s been more than a fair share of challenges. However, despite these challenges I always have and always will keep going and I’m eternally grateful for the strength that has been placed within me. I am proud to have achieved several notable successes. I had the privilege of becoming one of the youngest radio presenters in Kenya at the age of 19, working with esteemed DJs like Xclusive and media personalities like Mwalimu Racheal. I have also created content for events featuring phenomenal performers such as DJ Uncle Waffles and Adekunle Gold. I am excited about the opportunities that lie ahead and look forward to continuing to share my art and create meaningful connections through my work.
We all face challenges, but looking back, would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
While my journey as a creative has been rewarding, it hasn’t been without its fair share of challenges. Financial struggles have been one of the significant hurdles I faced, particularly with my family. When my father had a stroke and had to retire early due to medical reasons, it put us in a difficult financial situation. My parents made tremendous sacrifices to support me and my aspirations, more than many know. However, this only made me work smarter and filled me with an unexplainable drive.
Another challenge I encountered was people taking advantage of me and my art. Unfortunately, this is not uncommon in the creative industry. I learned valuable lessons about protecting my work, setting boundaries, and establishing clear agreements with collaborators. Developing a strong network of trusted individuals who value and respect my art has been crucial in navigating these experiences.
Homophobia has also been a significant challenge I’ve faced. Being queer in Kenya and the world at large presented unique obstacles, including discrimination and prejudice, despite that I still found an amazing community in Kenya. These experiences motivated me to use my art and platform for advocacy with the establishment of an Inclusive community founded by Tyler Munyua my closest friend and together we were able to build something beautiful, creating awareness, and promoting inclusivity. It has been a journey of resilience and finding strength in my identity.
Additionally, as a young creative, I encountered ageism in the industry. Some individuals questioned my capabilities and dismissed my work based on my age. However, I viewed this as an opportunity to prove my talent and dedication. Through perseverance and consistently delivering high-quality work, I have been able to overcome these preconceptions and gain recognition for my skills.
Moving countries and making life-changing decisions for my career also posed challenges. Adjusting to a new environment, and cultural differences, and building a professional network from scratch required significant effort and adaptability. It was a transformative process that demanded courage, determination, and a willingness to step out of my comfort zone.
Despite these struggles, I firmly believe that every obstacle has been a learning experience, shaping me into the creative professional I am today. Each challenge strengthened my resolve, honed my skills, and deepened my passion for my craft. I am grateful for the resilience I have developed along the way, and it continues to fuel my drive to create impactful and meaningful art.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I am primarily a cinematographer, but I also take on roles as a director, especially for music videos, commercial projects, and short films that I have developed myself. Additionally, photography is a passion of mine, allowing me to capture moments and express my creativity visually.
In terms of specialization, I am deeply involved in the fashion and entertainment industries. This involves a wide range of projects, including fashion photography, fashion brand films, music videos, concert films, and photography. I strive to be disruptive and non-traditional in my approach, always pushing boundaries and breaking the rules to create unique and compelling visual narratives. I am particularly drawn to projects that convey powerful social messages and ensure inclusivity, amplifying the voices and stories of minority communities.
I take immense pride in the projects I have worked on and the collaborations I have been a part of. Having the opportunity to work with notable names such as Uncle Waffles, Dj Xclusive, Mwalimu Rachael, Adekunle Gold, Sarkodie, Sauti Sol, and many others has been incredibly fulfilling. Each project has allowed me to meet inspiring individuals, make a positive impact, and learn from the talented people I’ve had the privilege to collaborate with. Building authentic relationships and staying true to myself are important aspects that I hold dear and are at the core of my brand.
What sets me apart as a creative professional is my commitment to embracing my roots and identity. I take a lot of pride in being Kenyan and I do my best to ensure that my work reflects my authentic self, leaving a mark of my identity on every project I undertake. This authenticity cannot be replicated, and it adds a unique perspective and dimension to my work.
Ultimately, I believe that it is my passion for storytelling, my dedication to social impact, and my unwavering commitment to being true to myself that sets me apart as a multi-faceted creative. These elements drive me to continually evolve and create work that resonates with audiences and leaves a lasting impression.”
What matters most to you?
What matters most to me is the concept of family, which extends beyond blood ties to encompass the family I have formed over time. This includes the genuine connections and support I have built with loved ones, friends, and fellow creatives. The bonds I have created and nurtured are incredibly important as they provide a sense of belonging, understanding, and love.
Authenticity is another fundamental value that holds great significance to me. Being true to myself allows me to navigate life and my creative pursuits with integrity and honesty. It means embracing my identity, heritage, and unique perspective without compromise. By staying true to who I am, I am able to express myself freely and create meaningful art that resonates with others.
Sharing love is a core aspect of what matters most to me. I believe in fostering a compassionate and empathetic environment where love, kindness, and support are freely given and received. Through my work, I strive to touch the hearts of others, spread positivity, and promote healing. It is essential to me that my art contributes to the well-being of individuals, telling stories that not only entertain but also inspire, uplift, and bring people together.
Lastly, I have a deep commitment to representing and amplifying the stories of minority communities especially African Stories. I believe in using my creative platform to shed light on their experiences, challenges, and triumphs. By giving voice to these narratives, I aim to create greater understanding, empathy, and inclusion within society. It is a way for me to contribute to the progress and representation of underrepresented groups, fostering a more equitable and diverse creative landscape. Although, I haven’t created the work that I believe fully encompasses this yet I know it’s coming very soon.
In summary, what matters most to me is family in all its forms, authenticity in being true to myself, sharing love through my art, and using my creative platform to tell stories that heal, inspire, and amplify the voices of minority communities. These values shape my purpose and drive me to create work that is not only artistically fulfilling but also meaningful and impactful.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.vintevemedia.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/malikaluve/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MaliKaluveN
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mali-kaluve-36515019a
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC09Z1JibMM9cCRYv65BYDVA
- Other: https://anchor.fm/mindfulmali
Image Credits
Mali Kaluve
