With a degree in Contemporary Music Studies and Public Relations, a graduate in Counselling, plus being a qualified yoga and Mat Pilates teacher, there’s a lot to love about DJ and dancer MAYA MARIAH…
Hello, Maya. Give us a bit of background about your life story so far.
Well, I came to Australia when I was four years old, from a little town in Kyushu, Japan. I’ve completed my bachelor’s degree in Contemporary Music Studies and Public Relations and Graduate Certificate in Counselling, and I’m also a qualified yoga and Mat Pilates teacher who has been a podium dancer in nightclub festivals for a lot of my adult life. I’ve been DJing now for almost a year and it’s been a dream come true to be able to spark joy and movement for others through music. I’m an ENFP – extroverted, intuitive, feeling, perceiving – and a magician x ruler according to the Jungian psychology archetypes assessment.
What would people be most surprised to know about you?
Outside of my gigs, I’m a super homebody who loves nothing more than being with my doggo, Treble. Cleaning is also one of my favourite things to do.
As a wellness and spiritual teacher, what do you love most about yourself?
Over the years I’ve gotten to know myself a lot better so I’m able to navigate life a little easier. Boundaries, communication and openness I have learned are major keys to avoiding conflict and living a purposeful and joy-filled life.
What words do you live by?
“Be who you are and say what you feel, those who mind don’t matter, and those who matter don’t mind” – Dr. Seuss.
What is your best asset?
My booty, waistline and hair. Non-physical, I’m a people person and I try and be mindful to make the world a little bit more considerate, safe, non-judgmental and compassionate space for all.
Where’s the best place you’ve been to in the world?
Las Vegas and Japan are my favourite places I have visited multiple times. I don’t know anybody who has travelled to Japan and not loved it. It’s truly such a beautiful, mindful, respectful, delicious and pristine part of the world.
What’s the first thing you notice about the opposite gender?
Height, eyes, shoes and how considerate they are of other people.
What else do you look for in a man?
My ideal man makes me laugh all day long. I look for someone caring, intelligent, funny and kind – with a good moral compass who leads me to always do what’s right.
What’s one thing men should always know about women?
We are forever changing with the seasons and cycles of nature. Rather than trying to understand us, accept that we’re different and enjoy the ride.
What have you learned about men over the years?
That they have a need to feel seen, heard and validated just as much as us women. We’re all on a journey of healing our emotional wounds. We all need to balance the feminine and masculine energies within us to feel whole.
Got a weird quirk?
I can sing-whistle notes like Mariah Carey. Fun fact – if you can let out a high-pitched scream you should be able to train yourself to hit those notes.
When do you feel sexy?
I feel sexiest when I’m performing in nightclubs. Whether it’s dancing or DJing, it’s where I feel my absolute best.
What’s the most embarrassing music on your playlist?
I wouldn’t say embarrassing but I’m a sucker for music that makes me cry. I can listen to emotional R&B – ’90s/early 2000s – for days. Usher, Mariah, Boyz II Men… I also love UK Happy Hardcore, which is the absolute complete opposite, but can still make me cry somehow. It’s good to shed some tears and release every now and then.
Tell us something new happening in your life right now.
I just played my very first interstate gig in Adelaide recently which was super exciting! And right now I’m obsessed with Threads, which is new.
Success or happiness?
I guess it depends on what you measure to mean success, but for me it’s happiness – a sense of freedom and inner peace is priceless. Something I believe we are here to spiritually evolve and learn.
What’s next for you?
I’ll be performing every weekend in clubs in Sydney, and will be heading interstate, too. One thing I’ve realised is the importance of staying open to new experiences and I’m super grateful for all the opportunities that come my way.
STATUS UPDATE
NAME: DJ Maya Mariah
BORN: August 26
HOME TOWN: Kyushu, Japan
CURRENTLY LIVES: Sydney, Australia
FIVE-WORD SELF DESCRIPTION: “Spiritual, musical, compassionate, positive, purpose-driven.”
HIDDEN TALENT: “Can communicate with animals.”
FAVOURITE DRINK: “Grey Goose, lime and soda.”
LIFE MOTTO: “Find the things that light you up. Continue to do more of it!”
SNAPCHAT/THREADS/INSTAGRAM: @mayamariahxx
TIK TOK: @djmayamariah
Interview by PARIS RAINE
Photographed by ROCKY BATCHELOR
Hair & make-up by POLINA PAK
Location PANORAMA SUMMIT SAMUI, THAILAND
For the full article grab the August 2023 issue of MAXIM Australia from newsagents and convenience locations. Subscribe here.
