Naomi Wenitong is a multi-award winning, Songwriter, Singer, Rapper, Producer, Ambassador,
Television Host and Youth Mentor. Her career in the music industry stems over 25 years, which has enabled her to design her greatest legacy, a youth mentorship project called Naytive Mentorship.
Born in Cairns to a large family belonging to the Kabi Kabi people of South East Queensland, the soundtrack to Nay’s childhood was ever-present and eclectic. At the age of 16, Shakaya was formed. The group was signed to a major multinational record label and had their own original songs: ‘Stop Calling Me’, ‘Sublime’ and ‘Cinderella’ quickly climbing the ARIA charts and selling platinum numbers. Shakaya’s success saw the group release two albums and tour with Destiny’s Child, Usher, Ja Rule, Ashanti and Shaggy as well as perform all backup vocals and raps for Peter Andre on his 2004 UK tour.
After returning from the US, Nay co-founded the trio The Last Kinection (TLK) – the outfit that would allow Nay to focus more heavily on her ability as an MC and her lyrical prowess. TLK won legions of new fans as the main support for The Herd’s sold-out national tour. The last show of that tour changed Nay’s life forever. Driving from Sydney to Newcastle, TLK were involved in a horrific car accident, resulting in injuries so drastic that Nay was presumed dead at the scene. However, with spirit and determination Nay learned how to walk again, recovered and returned to the stage to support Public Enemy, host 2 seasons of the Logie nominated interactive TV show Move it Mobstyle and deliver a TEDx talk ‘It's More than Just Music’
Naomi is among a panel of hiphop artists discussing the work of female hiphop artists working across different regions in Australia. The live event will be held on 15 March in Australia and an online event will be held on 18 March. More details here.
