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Whether she’s spinning at gigs, worshipping at church, or planning her next show in Gambia, everything she does is guided by spirit, purpose, and a love for her roots. We spoke to her about the duality of diaspora life, staying grounded in a city that’s raw and unpredictable, and why she’s more interested in unity than hype.
DJ Timaah: I’ve lived in a few different countries, and I also spent four years in Sierra Leone, which really connected me to my roots my dad is Sierra Leonean, and half of his family still lives there. Most of his side, including my grandma and his siblings, are actually based in America. Before Berlin, I was living in Frankfurt, but I moved here to pursue my studies and explore more opportunities in the music industry.
DT: In my neighborhood, definitely. I don’t live right in the center of Berlin I’m more on the peaceful side, surrounded by trees, parks, and calm energy. It’s quiet, green, and it gives me space to think, create, and just be myself. That calmness really makes me feel at home.
DT: What really stands out from my Sierra Leonean heritage is the confidence. Growing up, I saw how much value our culture places on walking into any room with your head high—whether it’s in education, in creative spaces, or just in life. That mindset taught me to be confident in what I do and in my craft.
When I was younger, I used to dance a lot I was known for it. I even competed in school competitions, won national prizes, and did some modeling and catwalk shows. My family, especially on my dad’s side, has always been into music and parties, so they really supported me. My dad’s a party animal, and he always pushed me to shine. I had such a joyful and expressive 4 years in Sierra Leone, and I truly believe that’s what shaped me into the artist I am today. That love for rhythm, performance, and expression it all comes from home.
DT: One of my favorite spots is actually Next level restaurant here in Berlin that belongs to my friend’s uncle. I love going there I’m always welcomed, and sometimes I even get free food! It’s a comforting place for me. I’m not really a big fan of heavy food, and a lot of African dishes can be quite heavy and takes long to prepare, so I don’t always go for them. But that restaurant gives me a nice balance it feels like a second home.
DT: My favourite Berlin slang is “Manno”. It’s just one of those expressions you hear all over the place, and it has this vibe of disbelief or frustration, kind of like saying come on or seriously. It’s super catchy, and I always laugh when I hear it.
DT: I don’t feel like I’m two different people. I feel like my identity blends naturally. Being from both Sierra Leone and Gambia, I carry both cultures with me wherever I go. I don’t see them as separate; they’re both a part of who I am. In Berlin, I get to live my own life, but I also carry the values and experiences from back home. It’s all one journey.
DT: My favorite gig has been my piano show in Gambia this past January. It was such a special moment because I got to perform in my home country, and it felt incredible to connect with the crowd there. Being mixed, with ties to both Gambia and Sierra Leone, playing in Gambia gave me a sense of belonging and pride. The support from the people was amazing, and the energy in the room was perfect it all came together so naturally. It was a peaceful, fulfilling experience, and it’s something I want to make a tradition. Every January, I want to return to both of my homelands and host a show to celebrate my roots and share my music with the people there.
DT: My church. I spend a lot of time there during the week, and it’s where I feel most at peace. I’ve made great friends in my church family, and it’s a place that gives me strength and comfort. It’s not just a spiritual home, but a community where I can truly be myself.
DT: If I weren’t a DJ, I’d probably pursue acting, as it’s always been something I’ve been interested in. On the other hand, I still work as a nurse, and I’m also starting studies to become a social worker, so if it weren’t for DJing or acting, I’d likely focus on making a difference through healthcare or social services.
To find out where timaah plays next, follow her on instagram @djtimaah
Noted Noire is a digital magazine celebrating the global Black diaspora through the lens of culture, luxury, and innovation. We spotlight untold stories, explore rich traditions, and highlight the contributions of communities across the world. From heritage to modernity, our curated features inspire, empower, and connect a global network of visionaries and changemakers.
