Maxime Lenik
Age: 32
Occupation: Director, Music, Arts & Events Production
He’s a DJ and a music producer and currently spends his time travelling around the region entertaining the masses with his work. Having moved from Shanghai to Singapore for his fiancee, he’s busy working with new local talents and turning out new albums.
AM: What is one thing you own that speaks of your personality? What’s the story behind it?
ML: My percussion sticks: I’ve been playing the marimba, vibes, xylophone and everything in between for more than 15 years. I was lucky to be taught by the best, among them the principal timpanist of Paris Opera and Paris Orchestra. Percussion is one of the most eclectic instruments, so as I’m always hungry for more. I’ve been studying jazz and ethnic (African, Brazilian and Indian) music as well. The percussion approach has led me to appreciate many different kinds of music and culture.
AM: What’s important to you at this juncture of your life.
ML: I’ve moved to Singapore from Shanghai with my fiancée, so it’s crucial for me to meet new business partners and create new opportunities. I’m eager to explore all of Southeast Asia while I am here too. Besides my work for music labels in Europe, I also have fresh projects with Singaporean artists coming out soon, so stay tuned.
AM: The dynamics between men and women have changed over the decades. What are your thoughts on this?
ML: Well, fortunately women are getting more rights, and I strongly believe it’s for the better. However, they are still not getting equal wages even though they’ve proved again and again that they can be more organised and strong-hearted than men. I wish there would be more women in politics.
AM: How does gender equality affect you in your working environment.
ML: I’m easy to work with when people are serious and trustful. It doesn’t make a difference whether I’m working with men or women. It’s always very important to me to have a professional attitude and separate personal and private life from the working environment.
AM: What world issues are you passionate about?
Since the French presidential election, I’ve been focusing on the economic solutions that European Union would have to find. I don’t wish to let go of the Euro even though we might not have a choice. I’m following closely as well the awakening of North African countries. Generally I’m interested in politics, environment and humanitarian issues. I’m always happy to do charity work when I have the opportunity. I’m looking forward to establishing more bridges between the East and West, and between cultures, as I believe our future resides in clear and respectful communication.