The May/June issue gives way to a new 20-something list, featuring visual artists, photographers, art collectives, dancers, musicians and much more. Twenty people who are a representation of young society in Belgium, a generation ready to rule our world. Let us introduce you to the faces you didn’t realise you wanted to meet!
Oriana Mangala Ikomo Wanga
musician, Ghent / Brussels, 23
Cover photo shot by @alex100drame, shots of the video clip by @lenanerinckx
How would you describe what you do?
I’m a musician. I would describe my music as a mishmash of jazz, R&/b, and electronic music.
What are you currently busy with?
I’m currently busy with my debut single release.
Anything planned for the future?
After my single release (16 April) I’m starting my residence at Volta. So writing a lot of new music and bringing out an EP in the near future is the plan!
Nickname(s) people have given you?
Riri and Cutepuke.
Latest déjà vu?
I honestly don’t know. I dream a lot so I’m often confused about if my déjà vus are real or not.
Any new habits?
I stretch out almost every night before sleeping for a few weeks.
What’s your daily routine like?
I think the only routine I have is drinking coffee with milk in the morning and my morning/night skincare!
Weirdest dream you’ve had?
I was in an apartment, surrounded by rabbits who were malformed and I would kill them if they would try to approach me. Very traumatic. But I have a lot of ‘weird’ dreams so I’m used to it.
What artists are you listening to?
Lately I’ve been listening to Nils Frahm, Amaarae and Alice Gas a lot.
Favourite memory?
NYE 2020 in Berlin, with one of my besties. We ate lots of cheese, partied a lot and hugged so many people.
What advice would you give your younger/older self?
I would tell her to be less scared of speaking up.
Favourite emoji?
🥺 is my mood
Cutest desire you have?
I looove hugging people.
Love of your life?
Tough question, ha-ha.
Biggest personal change since last year?
I can’t go out dancing any more.
How did last year change your perspective?
I feel like I empowered myself a lot and really started practicing what I’m preaching: setting my boundaries faster, accepting myself and my body, being proud of what I achieve, trying to be more organized ’cause I’m a mess sometimes…
Are you a nostalgic person?
I’m a very nostalgic person. I think about the past all the time. But I don’t feel like I stick to it.
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 plans
