We had the good fortune of connecting with Ruka O.G and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Ruka, the decisions we make often shape our story in profound ways. What was one of the most difficult decisions you’ve had to make?
The most difficult decision I had to make when it came to creating my business and becoming a Content Creator as well as an Influencer, was understanding that my path would probably disappoint my parents. In the early stages of creating my YouTube channel, videos of me freely expressing myself (sexually) were sent to my devout Muslim Yoruba mother. Hearing her disappointment as well as enduring her constant messages and calls about how I should stop posting and focus on school or get into the healthcare industry like she originally had planned for me was mentally taxing, to say the least. Coming from a Nigerian and Islamic household, there are traditional and cultural rules and regulations the first girl of the family must follow. The decision was difficult because although I do not want to disappoint or hurt my mother, this is MY passion, this is what I want to do, this is what makes ME happy, and I had to make the decision to prioritize me before anything else.
Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I am a business owner. I am a podcaster. I am a content creator. I am an overall entertainer. I created a YouTube channel, Chopped & Roox, in March of 2019 after years of procrastination, insecurities, and thinking that this particular category was over-saturated and I was not contributing anything different within the industry. When pursuing passions on your own, it may make you jaded. People and friends not supporting or sharing like you thought they would, or people in the same industry as you and they are better and richer and prettier so you can never obtain that level of success. These are examples of recurring thoughts that I have, even being almost two years in. I think what sets me apart is my personality. I pride myself on the truth, and I pride myself on my growth. With creating my channel, I created a portal of public transparency. I started holding myself accountable for a lot of things I was ignorant to, and began to learn and unlearn a lot about myself, both good and bad. I am nowhere near where I want to be, for I am just a beginner in the game. I have learned, however, consistency and a solid support system will help you overcome challenges. Your name is already in rooms your feet have yet to enter. When you are meant for something, obstacles and trials are only there to grow and guide you. You are supposed to go through this to get through this. This is my path, this is my purpose, this is my passion.
Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
Being that I am originally from Houston, Texas (SWAT), I would say that I grew up officially in the DFW area because I went to Texas Woman’s University in 2011 and stayed after graduating in 2016 so I know a few spots. I also follow DubbsGrubs on IG and that has put me on to food spots as well. If my best friend came dine to visit (even though they live 5 minutes away from me), I would take them to Harris House of Heroes for their Sticky Wings, Big T Plaza for the deals and thrills, get our nails done either at Fantasy Nails off of Camp Wisdom of X Nails in Lewisville. We could maybe go to the Margaret Hunt Hill Bridge to see the Skyline. You know it’s a whole pandemic out here so we could go to Deep Ellum or Uptown, but uh… we probably would eat some more good food and safely social distance with a few friends at XOXO or Stirr.
Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
Shout out to BLACK WOMEN. This year and this country has shown us that we are literally the lowest on the totem pole. Whether it is murder at the hands of police brutality, medical bias during pregnancy or general sickness, relationships, business, etc. We are always considered last for everything except carrying the heavy load. Shout out to every black woman who has been called strong even at her weakest. Shout out to every black woman who has been called ‘bitter, aggressive, and loud’ for never letting anyone back her in the corner. Shout out to every black woman because we are the most educated demographic, yet the least appreciated. Shout out to every black woman who takes care of her children, her family, her spouses, and her friends. Shout out to Black Trans Woman, because your life is constant survival. Shout out to BLACK WOMEN.
Website: https://choppedandroox.wordpress.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rukatrue_/
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ruka-ogunmefun-313b39b5/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/RukaTrue_
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/choppedandroox
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/c/ChoppedRoox