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London-born, with Turkish and Sierra Leonean roots, Amber Leaux is a co-host of the Style & City Diaries podcast, a DJ and presenter, effortlessly weaving culture, commentary and community into her work.
From hosting sold-out live shows to blending eclectic sounds into genre-defying sets, we caught up with her to talk playlists, parakeets and carving space in a city that’s as exhausting as it is electric – all while keeping it stylish!
Amber Leaux: I’m still trying to figure it out myself, (laughs). My calendar is my best friend—if it’s not in there, it’s not happening. It can be exhausting, and I definitely have days where I want to quit everything. But the rewards make it worth it, and I know it’ll pay off in the end.
AL: My dual heritage has a huge impact on how I see the world and approach my work. The Turkish side brings a sense of rich tradition, storytelling, and vibrant melodies that I weave into the music I play. The Sierra Leonean side contributes a deep sense of community, rhythm, and energy, which influences how I connect with my audience. I bring a unique fusion of these cultures into my DJ sets, which often feature an eclectic mix of beats and genres. As a podcaster and presenter, I’m always conscious of highlighting diverse voices and stories—drawing from both cultures’ resilience, strength, and creativity. This blend helps me create content that’s authentic and true to who I am.
AL: Not really—London is such a melting pot of cultures. Everyone brings their own views, experiences, and perspectives, and that all shapes the wider London experience.
AL: It would have to be Notting Hill Carnival! It’s been such a staple part of my life, and I’ve had so many amazing experiences there. As a Londoner, it’s rude not to go!
AL: Yes—when I realised we have parakeets in the wild! I love seeing them flying around.
AL: Make short-term goals. Ask yourself: what do I want to achieve in the next three months? Then set yourself tasks to help you reach those goals. It’s easier to accomplish short-term goals than long-term ones, and you’ll get more done than you realise. It really helps keep you on track.
AL: It’s not all it’s cracked up to be. If you’re a “nobody” (lacking followers or clout), it’s really tough. It can feel disingenuous—people often make connections based on what they can gain from you, not because they actually like you. Sharing, promoting, or putting people forward for opportunities usually comes with the expectation of something in return. There are a lot of gatekeepers, and everyone’s fighting for the number one spot instead of helping each other get there.
It’s sad because we could have so many more successful people if we supported each other. But I think there’s more competition than collaboration. And everyone has a 9–5—there’s nothing wrong with that (I have one too), but a lot of creatives try to hide it.
AL: I’d start the day with a lovely brunch—this could be anywhere really. If the weather’s nice, I’d walk along the Southbank from Waterloo to Tower Bridge, stopping at pubs to quench my thirst. As the evening sets in, I’d cross over Tower Bridge and head to St Katharine Docks for dinner. Simple, but gorgeous.
To keep up with Amber, follow her on instagram instagram @amberleaux
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.
