Meet DJ from the Philippines, Patty Tiu.

Tell us a little bit about yourself.

I’m a DJ, I own a tattoo shop, I’m a competitive jiujitsu athlete, and I have a love for weightlifting.

Describe the city you’re living in and what it’s like to live there.

Living in Manila is living in a very fast-paced city. There’s always something to do, it’s loud day and night, people walk around the busy streets super fast it’s like everyone is always in a hurry haha

Living in Manila is living in a very fast-paced city

What is the best and worst thing about living in your city?

Best thing – the hospitality of people and FOOD!
Worst thing – poverty because of corruption AND TRAFFIC!

Give us 3 words that describe what it’s like to be a creative in your city.

Challenging
Rewarding
Passionate

How did you start your career in music?

I first started as having an 8-hour desk job. I’ve always had the love for Manila’s nightlife as my escape. Eventually, I landed a job as a PR/Marketing for a DJ Studio and all the magic started there. As I started having DJ gigs I had to fully commit, so I quit my PR job and went full-time DJ. From 2011 until today, I have won DJ competitions, I have traveled and performed in different parts of the Philippines and in South East Asia with 3 different artist entities Patty Tiu, Deuce and Deus.

People always had this misconception that being a DJ is more of a hobby than a real job. But it really isn’t. You can really make a great career out of it if you work hard!

Were the people around you supportive of your decision on working as a creative?

Yes! People always had this misconception that being a DJ is more of a hobby than a real job. But it really isn’t. You can really make a great career out of it if you work hard!

What are some goals and ambitions you have for your future work?

We currently just opened our DJ School/Studio in Manila, Philippines named Sessions Academy Manila. We want to build better DJs for the future. I have no plans on slowing down when it comes to music, being an entrepreneur and in everything that I do in between!

I have no plans on slowing down when it comes to music, being an entrepreneur and in everything that I do in between!

How would you describe the women around you?

I’m so lucky to be surrounded by so many strong, passionate, creative and independent women in all sorts of fields that I’m in. When days get hard they are my inspirations, my rocks, and my will to power through.

Were there any local female creatives that you looked up to when you were growing up?

I don’t remember having any 🙁

Are there any challenging aspects of being a female in your industry?

Start the course, eyes on the prize, and always, always remember there are people who have your back.

Do you have any advice to young women who are aspiring to work in your field?

Start the course, eyes on the prize, and always, always remember there are people who have your back.

Photos courtesy of Patty Tiu, Seven Barretto.