- Byno Ayoni shares painful experience of music industry rejection
- Albinism stigma almost derailed his music career
- Mentor win boosts inclusivity, challenges societal perceptions
Byno Ayoni, the winner of Mentor 12, has opened up about the challenges he has faced in his music career, particularly those stemming from society’s misconceptions about albinism.
In an interview with DJ Slim on Daybreak Hitz, Byno shared how these misunderstandings have adversely affected his opportunities in the industry. He recounted multiple auditions for major music projects, where he faced disappointment despite his strong performances.
“I have been to a couple of auditions, done very well, gone back the next day and got the response that I did not look marketable enough because I am an albino. My looks alone is not the excuse. They said I did not look marketable and then they would say because of the problem with the eyes of albinos, I would not be able to perform [at night],” he explained. “But then I would go for auditions and I would perform, and they would say it’s good, ask me to come tomorrow. I would go and they will tell me to come another day all because of who I am.”
Despite these hurdles, Byno noted a gradual shift in perception as more people recognize his talent, leading to a decrease in stigma associated with his condition. He expressed pride in his victory on TV3’s Mentor reality show Season 12, affirming his belief in his own abilities and potential in the music industry.
