Meet Divine Che | Artist and model

We had the good fortune of connecting with Divine Che and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Divine, why did you pursue a creative career?
Growing up in Akum, Cameroon, creativity became my lifeline against boredom. My hometown’s tranquil setting sparked my imagination, pushing me to explore the world through artistic endeavors. From a young age, I found solace and inspiration in the rich tapestry of musical icons spanning diverse genres. Each melody, rhythm, and lyric infused my creative palette with vibrant hues, shaping my journey into the realm of musical artistry.
As I honed my craft, I delved into the intricate workings behind music production, captivated by the alchemy of sound manipulation and composition. Every beat, harmony, and sonic texture became a brushstroke in the canvas of my musical creations. Drawing from my cultural heritage, as well as influences from across the globe, I crafted melodies that echoed the rhythms of my roots while embracing the universality of music as a language of connection and expression.
Through my music productions, I strive to weave narratives that transcend boundaries, inviting listeners on a transcendent journey of emotion and introspection. My creative process is a testament to the boundless possibilities of artistic expression, fueled by the spirit of innovation and a deep reverence for the transformative power of music culturally. In every composition, I endeavor to evoke a sense of resonance and resonance, forging connections that transcend geographical divides and cultural barriers.
Throughout my journey, I was fortunate to have close mentors and influences who provided me with a safe space to explore my creativity and pursue my artistic passions. These mentors, whether family members, teachers, or local artists, recognized and nurtured my potential, guiding me along the path of artistic discovery with wisdom and encouragement. Their belief in my abilities and their unwavering support instilled within me the confidence to embrace my artistic identity and push the boundaries of my creative endeavors.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
I am multi diverse, and I have not only a background in Music artistry, but modeling

What sets me apart as an artist(Ma’aky) is my commitment to incorporating diverse elements of my heritage into my music, particularly drawing from the rich cultural tapestry of Akum, Cameroon. However, what truly distinguishes my work is the multilingual aspect that I infuse into my compositions, including music in French.
By embracing multiple languages in my music, I strive to create a universal appeal that transcends linguistic barriers and resonates with audiences across cultural divides. Each language becomes a vessel for storytelling, allowing me to weave narratives that reflect the depth and complexity of human experience.

In incorporating French into my music, I pay homage to the linguistic diversity of Cameroon and the broader Francophone world, while also expanding the reach of my artistry to French- speaking audiences. Whether through lyrics that evoke nostalgia, express longing, or celebrate joy, the inclusion of French adds another layer of richness and authenticity to my creative expression.
Moreover, the multilingual components in my music serve as a bridge between cultures, fostering dialogue and understanding in an increasingly interconnected world. Through the universal language of music, I strive to foster connections that transcend geographical and linguistic boundaries, inviting listeners to embark on a shared journey of exploration and discovery.
In essence, my incorporation of multilingualism into my music reflects not only a celebration of my heritage but also a commitment to embracing diversity and fostering unity through the power of artistic expression. By blending languages and cultures seamlessly within my compositions, I hope to inspire others to embrace their own unique identities and to find common ground in the beauty of cultural exchange.
One of the most invaluable lessons I learned along my creative journey came from a mentor who imparted to me the art of distinguishing music by ear. Through patient guidance and hands-on training, they taught me to listen deeply, to discern the nuances of melody, rhythm, and harmony, and to trust my instincts in the creative process.
More than just technical skills, my mentor emphasized the importance of genuinely feeling out what I was creating. They encouraged me to tap into my emotions, to channel my experiences and innermost thoughts into my music, and to let authenticity be my guiding light. In doing so, I discovered the power of vulnerability and self-expression, realizing that true artistry lies not just in technical proficiency but in the ability to connect with audiences on a visceral level.
Central to my mentor’s teachings was the notion of trusting in the inherent goodness of my creations. They instilled within me a sense of confidence and self-belief, urging me to embrace my unique voice and to have faith in the transformative power of my art. Through their guidance, I learned to silence my inner critic, to banish self-doubt, and to approach each creative endeavor with a sense of optimism and openness.
The lessons imparted by my mentor continue to shape my creative journey to this day. Armed with the ability to discern music by ear, to tap into my emotions authentically, and to trust in the inherent goodness of my creations, I navigate the artistic landscape with newfound clarity and purpose. In honoring their teachings, I pay homage to the legacy of wisdom and inspiration that they bestowed upon me, forever grateful for the profound impact they have had on my artistic evolution.

As Divine Nchang, my journey into the world of fashion and art began through a serendipitous encounter with a friend who recognized my potential. This friend introduced me to local designers who organized fashion shows, which paved the way for my first casting at Denver Fashion Week. It was there that I was discovered and subsequently signed by a modeling agency, marking the start of my professional career.

Since then, I’ve had the honor of being featured in Vogue and participating in multiple high-profile commercials for brands like American Airlines and Google Pixel. My collaborations extend to working with creatives in New York City, enhancing my experience and broadening my network in the fashion industry. I’ve also walked the runway in prestigious shows such as Colors of Fashion and Denver Fashion Week, showcasing diverse styles and contributing to my growing reputation.

On Instagram, I document my journey, blending my modeling career with my passion for contemporary art. My artistic work, which often explores themes of identity and culture, has been exhibited in local Denver galleries and exhibitions. This fusion of fashion and art allows me to create unique and compelling narratives that resonate with a wide audience.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
Day 1: Arrival and Downtown Denver Exploration
• Morning: Arrive in Denver and check into your accommodation.
• Afternoon: Explore downtown Denver. Visit the 16th Street Mall for shopping and
people-watching.
• Evening: Enjoy dinner at Euclid Hall Bar & Kitchen, known for its creative gastropub fare and extensive beer selection.

Day 2: Outdoor Market and Public Art
• Morning: Start your day at the Union Station Farmers Market, where you can taste local produce and artisanal goods.
• Afternoon: Take a stroll through the streets of Denver to discover its vibrant public art scene, including murals and sculptures.
• Evening: Enjoy dinner at a restaurant in the RiNo (River North Art District) neighborhood, such as The Populist, known for its eclectic menu and artsy ambiance.

Day 3: Day Trip to Boulder
• Morning: Take a scenic drive to Boulder and hike the trails at Chautauqua Park for breathtaking views of the Flatirons.
• Afternoon: Enjoy lunch at The Kitchen, a farm-to-table restaurant focused on locally sourced ingredients.
• Evening: Stroll along Pearl Street Mall and have dinner at Black Cat, offering seasonal farm cuisine in a charming setting.

Day 4: In Boulder
• Morning: Explore the Pearl Street Mall, lined with shops, galleries, and cafes.
• Afternoon: Visit the Boulder Museum of Contemporary Art (BMoCA) to
experience cutting-edge contemporary art.
• Evening: Dine at a restaurant in Boulder like Frasca Food and Wine, known for its exquisite Italian cuisine and extensive wine selection.

Day 5: Urban Exploration and Food Trucks

• Morning: Explore Denver’s neighborhoods like LoHi (Lower Highlands) or South Broadway, known for their unique shops and cafes.
• Afternoon: Grab lunch from one of Denver’s famous food trucks parked at Civic Center Park or the Denver Beer Co. Barrel Room.
• Evening: Dine at Rioja, a James Beard Award-winning restaurant serving Mediterranean-inspired cuisine with a modern twist.

Day 6: Brewery Tour and Local Eats
• Morning: Take a brewery tour to explore Denver’s craft beer scene. Visit breweries like Great Divide Brewing Co.
• Afternoon: Enjoy lunch at Avanti Food & Beverage, a modern food hall featuring a variety of culinary options from local chefs.
• Evening: Have dinner at Acorn, located in The Source, a vibrant artisan food market. Acorn offers inventive small plates with a focus on seasonal ingredients.

Day 7: Outdoor Adventure at Red Rocks Park
• Morning: Head to Red Rocks Park for a morning hike or yoga session amidst stunning rock formations.
• Afternoon: Have lunch at Ship Rock Grille inside the park, offering Southwestern- inspired cuisine with panoramic views.
• Evening: Catch a concert or film at the iconic Red Rocks Amphitheatre, a unique outdoor venue surrounded by natural beauty.
This itinerary combines outdoor adventures, cultural exploration, and exquisite dining experiences to ensure you an eventful experience in Denver!

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I would like to shoutout Jonny Edward a.k.a Jonny Creative on social media for his exceptional gift and talent as an educator, artist and mentor.

I would also like to shoutout Eddy Eyoum a producer and sound engineer who took me under is wing mentored and showed me ways of improving my sound and artistic approach to making music while I was in Cameroon

Website: https://ampl.ink/Maaky

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/divinenchang?igsh=MXBnNjNxaTBxMnh3Nw%3D%3D&utm_source=qr

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/uv1SW3j59NR3GZAd/?mibextid=kFxxJD

Youtube: https://youtube.com/@maakytunez?si=Q5dWBs1W6_rWW_I6

Other: IG:
https://www.instagram.com/maakyza?igsh=ZHZzZXNiam92NTVh&utm_source=qr

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/4KC6iC21w27US2mBzKbTHL?si=pbjwcrWGReOgC4yr55CFGA

Apple Music:
https://music.apple.com/us/artist/maaky/1723133819

Image Credits
Jonny Edwards
Dustin Moon
Chris knight
Brook Austin Photo
Adriana rose photography