Face of The Week: Award-Winning Suzan Mutesi, a Creative Powerhouse Inspiring the World

With an impressive array of talents and accomplishments, she has established herself as a style icon, actress, author, model, singer, producer, activist, and an all-round creative powerhouse. Above all, Suzan is dedicated to inspiring the next generation to embrace their true selves unapologetically.

Born in Uganda, Suzan’s journey from humble beginnings to becoming a household name in the Australian creative industries and making her mark on the international scene is nothing short of extraordinary. Her talent and unique personality have led her to grace the pages of prestigious magazines like Vogue France and Vogue Australia, while also becoming an iconic face of Bonds.

As a trained and accomplished actress, Suzan is poised to take on the lead role in an upcoming Hollywood movie, alongside a Best Actor’s Oscar-winner, although details about the project are still under wraps. Additionally, she recently completed filming a cameo role in the Sony R-rated Hollywood rom-com ‘Anyone But You’, starring Sydney Sweeney. Suzan’s first foray into Hollywood came with a cameo appearance in the Marvel Studios superhero film ‘Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings’ in 2021.

Suzan’s talent was further recognized with her acclaimed supporting role in the Australian independent movie ‘Moon Rock For Monday’ in 2021, which garnered widespread acclaim from movie critics. The film was even nominated for an AACTA Award for Best Indie Film by the Australian Academy of Cinema Television and Arts. She is also set to appear in the upcoming Hollywood action-crime film ‘Irrationale’.

In 2022, Suzan’s career continued to soar as she joined the cast of the reality TV show ‘The Challenge Australia’ and starred alongside Golden Globe and Emmy Award-winning English actor Jane Seymour OBE in ‘Ruby’s Choice’. The latter premiered at the 37th Santa Barbara International Film Festival, where it was nominated for Best International Feature Film. Additionally, she made her Netflix debut in the ‘Heartbreak High’ reboot, portraying the role of a DJ.

Beyond her achievements in the entertainment industry, Suzan has made a profound impact as an author. Her first book, ‘Unapologetically Black: Afro Sisters’, released in 2020, received critical acclaim from Vogue for its ability to transform stories of personal discrimination and hardship into a source of comfort and inspiration for younger generations. Building on this success, Suzan went on to pen her own autobiography titled ‘The Immigrant That Found Her Unapologetic Voice’. In this compelling book, she shares her personal journey, delving into important discussions on racism, friendships, trauma, relationships, and church culture, while providing valuable advice and solace to people of color who resonate with her experiences.

Suzan’s influence extends into the fashion world, where she has garnered recognition and accolades. She was honored with the Fashion Icon of the Year award at the Afro-Australia Music And Movie Awards, and also received the Best Fashion Contributor In The Diaspora in Uganda. Furthermore, she received the Fashion Designer Award from Celebrate African Australians at the Fashion Aid Forward event. As a fashion designer, she has had the privilege of dressing and styling some of Australia’s biggest models and celebrities, including the likes of Kelly Rowland for ‘The Voice Australia’. As an influencer and model, she has lent her striking presence to campaigns for renowned brands such as Fenty, Ralph Lauren, and Nike, among others.

Can you tell us a little about yourself and what you do? 

 I am an actress author and an influencer. 

What inspired you to pursue your career or business? 

I wanted  to inspire the Next generation to be unapologetically in there voice and creativity. I want to create a platform for the next generation of black young  girls and boys to build on. 

What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced in your career/business and how did you overcome it? 

Racism, rejection but I have realize that racism is  not a hindrance, but an opportunity to start a conversation and bridge the gaps between both white and black cultures. 

I have also realized that rejection is not a failure. It’s just an indicator that I should try somewhere else or knock on a different door. They say rejection is GOD ‘s protection so I now embrace rejection because it’s redirecting me on my right path

How do you stay motivated and focused on your goals? 

The drive to make a difference helps me stay motivated and also the fact that I know I haven’t yet arrived or maximized my full potential so that knowance drives  me to pursue for more goals 

What’s the biggest lesson you’ve learned in your career/business journey so far? 

One thing that I’ve learnt  as a child no one prepares you  for life  dexample rejection, heartbreaks ,the  social media bullying , the mean religious sisters, haters . Rich or poor we all go through these complex and intricacies life  throws at us. I have learned that you need to grow a thick skin , be your biggest cheerleader believe in yourself and dare to try because one thing I know is that if you don’t believe in you , no one will believe in and  do-not put expectations on someone else- your gift and dream is God given to you sometime not every one will believe it’s possible. Sometimes you just got to start  and the right people  aligned to your dream will jump on and help you execute it.

How do you define success? 

Success is often defined as the ability to reach your goals in life, whatever those goals may be. In some ways, a better word for success might be attainment, accomplishment, or progress. It is not necessarily a destination but a journey that helps develop the skills and resources you need to thrive.

What is your biggest dream, and how are you working towards achieving it?

One of my biggest dreams is to feature in a big Hollywood TV series. Get my book turned into a movie 

How has your faith or spirituality played a role in your career/business?  As creative and I believe you have to always be prayed up. 

This industry has a lot of highs and lows. You can never know what’s around the corner. My faith has helped me stay focus on my mission and goals, thought me to be kind and also taught me to trust that God will open doors no man can shut. He will bless me by laying a feast table in the presence of my enemies. Life will always throw you curveballs , but if your faith is built on the foundation of God, it will stand in the storm but  if your faith is built on the foundation of humans, money,  you will always be disappointed. 

How do you maintain a healthy work-life balance? 

My mother ‘s hustle as a black african woman who sacrificed all her livelihood to just take care of her children and relatives. That inspires me . 

I maintain a healthy work life balance by being intentional knowing when to play and to work hard. Learning how to relax my mind, body and soul. Switching off the distractions and fueling my body with things that feeds my soul, exercising, watching movies, reading. 

What advice would you give to someone just starting out in your field? 

You are enough and you don’t have to compare  yourself to any other person. Go for your dreams scared, if it’s scary and uncomfortable then it’s the right thing. 

What is something that people often misunderstand about your work/business? 

I am a creative that is multi facet, I sing  and act,  write, influence. And sometimes people wanna define you by that one talent. 

I am a creative at heart  I do not confine  myself to titles – talents are given to be expressed and shared with the world regardless of what talent I’m thriving in in a season I’m saving it’s purpose that season,

What is something that you’re passionate about outside of your work/business?

Something I am passionate about is stillness in solitude. Learning to appreciate that still voice when you alone and having clear thoughts.

Another thing I’m passionate about is giving back to the community  through volunteering

What is the most valuable skill you have learned in your career/business?

Patience is virtue, choose wisely, who you hung with because it determines the path you take in your career. Pick your battles wisely. Sometimes people will randomly pick bones  with you, it does not mean you always have to react back. There is a saying that says empty tins make the loudest noises. 

What is something you wish you knew when you were just starting out in your career/business? 

I Wish I had learnt to invest my money at a younger age so i  always had enough capital to try new ventures. 

How do you deal with failure or setbacks?

When I was young, I would take the fear of failure to heart, and it would leave me depressed for days. But now if I go for a Casting and, I don’t get it. I leave everything that I’ve done in that room and I just trust God to do the rest. 

What is your philosophy in life?

Don’t stop at that one No 

Be the change you want to see

What is that one life lesson that you learned a little too late?

Don’t ever stay in an abusive relationship just because your relationship is publicized as this beautiful perfect Instagram couple it’s not worth the pain and the damage it does to your confidence. Is just not worth it, Don’t settle enjoy the dating life. Wait for someone who sees you for who you are,  values you and genuinely loves you. When you’re young you settle for these young boys tiktok guys and sometimes they have their own insecurities and they can project that on you, and if you’re to settle for these abusive narcissistic personalities it can break your soul and how you perceive love

What is one thing that you have accomplished that you’re most proud of? 

My book, “”The immigrant that found her Unapologetic voice””

How do you see yourself and your business/career evolving in the future?

I see myself traveling to different schools and holding conferences talking about the book. I see myself producing TV series that embrace diversity & equality. I see myself making more movies with great actors in Hollywood.

How do you give back to your community or make a positive impact in the world?

I’m involved in a few different charity organizations. We have  raised  money for cancer patients , skin cancer, research schools, and many more.

What is your biggest regret in life?

I really have no regrets, but my biggest regrets would be giving up on something without never really trying.

Do you have a favorite quote? What is it?

Will smith: “ build your life, or else someone else will hire you and Build there’s”  

What is the best advice you have ever received? Life is full of teachers, so go out there and learn. You can learn from anyone from kids , from peoples stories, from people’s mistakes. Education is always endless. It’s one’s choice to ignore wisdom when they see it.

How do you stay innovative and adapt to changing circumstances in your field?

I stay innovative by opening up my mind to new possibilities life presents and also I open up my Spirit to the divine  so I can create unique ideas that no one has ever thought of in my field. 

Finally, can you share a funny story or experience related to entrepreneurship that you’ve had?

I can barely think of anything right now !! 

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ABOUT DIZZYDIDDY+PLUS FACES:

“Celebrating Impactful Achievements Across Various Fields”

DIZZYDIDDY+PLUS has launched a new initiative called “Face of the Week,” which aims to showcase the achievements of men and women who are making an impact in various fields, including entrepreneurship, entertainment, education, communication, and more. Each week of the year, from January to December, a new face will be introduced to the public through DIZZYDIDDY+PLUS’s platform.

Many of these faces of the week will also be honored at the Crownys, which are the DIZZYDIDDY+PLUS Awards and where all the faces and people who worked or partnered with DIZZYDIDDY+PLUS will be celebrated. The ultimate goal of this initiative is to give recognition and exposure to individuals who are making a positive difference in their respective fields.

The initiative will culminate with the release of a printed magazine in December for the Face Of The Year.

By highlighting the achievements of these individuals, DIZZYDIDDY+PLUS hopes to inspire and encourage others to pursue their passions and make a positive impact in the world.