The Story Behind OG Collective

OG Collective Studios is a reflection of my creative direction—a space where all my passions and projects come together.

I started OG Collective when I was 17, originally as a fun way to create merch for my friends and me. At the time, it was just something lighthearted, but as I grew, so did my vision. When I moved to LA, my love for creativity and entrepreneurship naturally merged, setting the foundation for something bigger.

My journey took an unexpected turn when my freshman-year roommate at LMU, who was from Tokyo, invited me to visit Japan in the summer of 2023. That trip completely shifted my perspective, leading me to take a gap year and fully immerse myself in Tokyo’s creative scene from ages 18 to 19. While there, I collaborated with artists and entrepreneurs who were running their own clothing brands, assisting with concepts, design, and photography. Everything felt like it was unfolding organically.

It was in Tokyo that I discovered DJing. Many of my friends had some experience behind the decks, and I was drawn to every aspect of it—the music, the energy, the artistry. With the encouragement and mentorship of my Tokyo peers, I started learning, practicing, and eventually booking major gigs. It felt like a natural extension of my love for music and creation, and I completely fell in love with the craft.

When I returned to LMU in fall 2024 after my gap year, I came back more inspired than ever. My roommate in LA shared my deep love for music and DJing, and together, we immersed ourselves in the local music scene. This passion led us to start Beats n' Balance, a school club dedicated to building a community rooted in our shared experiences. Beats n' Balance is still in its early stages, but we’re driven to create new experiences and fresh spaces for the LA music scene—throwing events where people can connect with music the way we do.

Beyond DJing, we curate playlists that match different vibes and design merch that resonates with those who feel connected to the brand. OG Collective Studios is, at its core, a tribute to my 17-year-old self—the version of me who just wanted to create freely. It’s a home for all my creative projects, an evolving collective of everything I love.

Through OG Collective, I hope to inspire other young creatives to explore their interests without limits. Sometimes, the best things happen when you simply create for yourself and put it out into the world.