Meet Juma Amanda Martinez | Microbiologist, Artist and DJ

We had the good fortune of connecting with Juma Amanda Martinez and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Juma, where are your from? We’d love to hear about how your background has played a role in who you are today?
I am from Mesa Arizona. My upbringing was one that usually becomes a horrific lifetime movie that involved poverty, abuse, parents struggling with drug addiction and watching my mother struggle through life as a single parent. That impacted me to be a strong individual and push through every obstacle in life. I strive to do everything I put my mind to, and I gained a great amount of gratitude for the life I’m living today. I am humble and know what it’s like to have nothing at all so being grateful for everything is what I stand on today.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
As a DJ (DJ JUMA) I strive to create an atmosphere that brings joy and love. I want people to let go and dance! To feel what I do when I hear music. It’s a moment where you feel no worries, no thoughts, just the music and it’s such a beautiful feeling. Becoming a DJ was hard work, I started in radio promotions for $8 per hour while working my day job as a microbiologist. I spent long nights dedicating my time and missing out on time with my son to become a successful DJ. I was a single mother, I worked day and night to provide. I studied other DJs in radio and learned the craft quickly. When becoming a successful DJ, you have to know music (every genre) read a room, be a people person. You have to know your worth and be dedicated to the long hours, no sleep, as well as being able to get through the set back of low payment for time spent. You have to be your own promoter. You have to constantly be active in your city for venues as well as on social media to get gigs. You have to find time to be a great parent if you have children and work a 9-5 job just to pay for your living on top of DJ expenses (equipment, music, gas etc.) not to mention having to deal with other DJs slandering you to block you from getting gigs. It’s a very cruel industry, but very rewarding if you can get past all of the downfalls. In my life if I want to do something I do it and I don’t let anything stop me. I’m proud to say I’m successful with DJing and being fully booked has been such a blessing.

As an Artist, painting is just a part of me, something I can’t live without. “Juma Doodles” is something I’ve been doing since I was a child. Art makes me feel so happy. Creating for me is a meditation. Art is an expression of love for me in so many different ways. I’ve seen many artists paint how I do, but what sets me apart from others is that its ME, my feelings, my thoughts in every stroke. Thats something that can’t be duplicated.

I want people to see my life as a breakthrough and encouragement. I’ve learned that you can literally do anything and everything you want in this life no matter your upbringing, no matter the cards you are delt. No matter who is against you. It just takes effort and mind over matter in a lot of situations. Have faith in yourself, in your craft and get rid of every insecurity because insecurities are just lies trying to stop your growth and success.

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?
I would take my friend to Dahlia Tapas Tequila & wine. They have the best cocktails and food in the Valley!

At night we would find the venue where The Str8UP Band or Carmela Y Mas would be performing and dance all night!

The following day We would travel to Sedona where my friend would enjoy the amazing scenery of SEDONA ARIZONA followed by enjoying some pizza at Pisa Lisa Pizzaria.

The undertow is a very awesome place to hang out and have a drink as well.

We are all mostly home bodies, and our home is such a vibe so we would spend the rest of the week enjoying each other’s time cooking and hanging out in my backyard or creative studio!

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I would like to give a huge shoutout to my mother because I don’t think she realizes that her strength throughout her struggles in life made me who I am today. Also, to my Children Julian & Jerzie, Partner Hazzel and good friends Jenea Sanchez and Ramses Ja. You all encouraged me and made me strive for more! You made me aware of my capabilities to succeed and for that I am forever grateful.

Website: https://talent.scratch.com/preview/artist/dj-juma

Instagram: Juma_doodles

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/juma-martinez-800770199/

Twitter: @NBPure

Other: https://jumadoodles.wixsite.com/jumadoodles