Myriam Taylor: Bridging Art and Science for Social Impact

In a world often plagued by barriers and disparities, there are individuals who emerge as agents of change, shaping their surroundings with their unwavering dedication. Myriam Taylor, co-founder of Muxima Bio, embodies such a spirit. Her remarkable personal journey, intertwined with a fervent desire to make a difference, has propelled her into the forefront of global socio-political projects and now, the realm of biotechnology.

Hailing from Angola, Myriam's odyssey began even before her birth, as her parents sought refuge from the ravages of war. From a tender age, the stage beckoned to her, and at just nineteen, she travelled to London to study at the prestigious Rose Buford theatre school.

Myriam's artistic pursuits spanned continents, spanning over twenty-five years of intellectual and technical involvement in socio-political projects across France, Brazil, the United Kingdom, Italy, Angola, and Portugal. With each endeavor, she fused her creative talents with an unyielding commitment to fostering positive change. Her genuine empathy for society's most pressing issues led her to establish Muxima Bio, a platform that transcends traditional boundaries.

Muxima Bio is far more than a mere brand or media company; it represents Myriam's true passion. Embodied within its core values lies a profound dedication to identity, black representation and women's empowerment. The platform operates on an intersectional level, delving into the game-changing realms of social ethos, from media to science, technology to politics. Every project undertaken by Muxima Bio is a catalyst for change, intrinsically aligned with thirteen of the seventeen Sustainable Development Goals, firmly solidifying its commitment to a better world.

Myriam is also the driving force behind the upcoming Humanity Summit, due to take place in Portugal, in September. Established to address the challenges humanity faces, including gender violence, domestic violence, racial violence, discrimination and social inequality, the summit serves as a fast track to dignity and social justice, aiming to foster relationships, collaborations, and solidarity among nations and people. Through promoting human rights, tackling global challenges, fostering cross-cultural understanding, encouraging philanthropy, social responsibility and more, the Humanity Summit is deeply committed to creating positive change and working towards a more inclusive and sustainable future.

At the heart of it all is Myriam - a globetrotter, a philanthropist, and an unwavering advocate for a socially-conscious approach. Join us as we delve into her journey in an exclusive with Machinelab…

Myriam, how did your early years help shape your perspective about life?

As a minority growing up in Portugal, I experienced the realities of being a black woman in a provincial setting. These experiences made me acutely aware of the marginalized voices and the struggles faced by underrepresented communities worldwide.

In response to these challenges, I was driven to take action and get involved. At the young age of 15, I began my journey as a volunteer, seeking opportunities to make a difference in the lives of others. This early engagement allowed me to witness firsthand the power of community and collective action in effecting positive change. Building upon my passion for social transformation, I pursued my studies at the Rose Bruford School of Drama in London, specializing in Political Theatre. This educational path provided me with a platform to amplify marginalized voices and address societal issues through artistic expression. It enabled me to delve into the transformative potential of theatre in challenging existing power structures and advocating for a more inclusive and equitable world.

As I embarked on my professional journey, I had the privilege of working in seven countries across three continents. These diverse experiences further deepened my understanding of global social dynamics and the interconnectedness of our shared humanity. They reinforced my commitment to using the arts as a means to bridge divides, foster empathy, and promote social justice. The challenges I faced during my early life instilled in me a profound sense of awareness and empathy for marginalized communities. They fueled my desire to actively contribute to positive change and led me to embrace opportunities that empower others and promote a more equitable society.

How did your passion for theatre contribute to your personal and professional development?

Specialising in political theatre has opened doors for me to engage in social innovation projects across three continents and eight countries. Through these experiences, I have gained a broader perspective on society and the interconnectedness of humanity.

Working in this transformative and disruptive form of theatre has allowed me to actively contribute to the evolution of society. This passion has not only shaped my personal values but has also guided my professional journey. Theatre has taught me the power of storytelling, empathy, and understanding. It has honed my communication and collaboration skills, enabling me to connect with diverse communities and individuals. Moreover, it has instilled in me a deep appreciation for the arts as a catalyst for social change.

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Could you elaborate on the curatorial themes of Muxima Bio, particularly the focus on self-determination of identity, black representation, and female representation?‍

Firstly, the concept of self-determination of identity is essential because it recognizes and respects individuals' autonomy to define themselves on their own terms. In many societies, marginalized groups, including black communities, have historically faced erasure, stereotyping, and limited opportunities to express their authentic identities. By emphasizing self-determination of identity, Muxima aims to empower individuals to reclaim their narratives, challenge societal norms, and celebrate the richness and diversity of their cultural heritage. Secondly, black representation is a vital aspect of Muxima's focus. Representation matters because it plays a crucial role in challenging systemic inequalities and breaking down stereotypes. Throughout history, black individuals and communities have been underrepresented or misrepresented in various industries, including the arts. Muxima seeks to counteract this by actively promoting and amplifying black voices, experiences, and artistic expressions. By doing so, it aims to foster inclusivity, challenge societal biases, and provide platforms for black artists and creators to share their unique perspectives.

Lastly, female representation holds significant importance within Muxima's focus. Historically, women, particularly women of color, have faced multiple forms of discrimination and have been marginalized in various sectors, including the arts. Muxima recognizes the need to challenge patriarchal structures and biases that limit opportunities for women in the creative industry. By prioritizing female representation, Muxima strives to provide a platform for women artists and creators to showcase their talent, perspectives and experiences, thereby contributing to a more equitable and inclusive artistic landscape.

Muxima's focus on self-determination of identity, black representation, and female representation is driven by the goal of empowering marginalized communities, challenging systemic inequalities, and promoting diversity and inclusion in the arts. By actively addressing these areas, Muxima aims to create spaces where underrepresented voices can flourish, narratives can be reshaped, and a more equitable and just society can be fostered.

‍In what ways does Muxima Bio promote sustainable solutions and approaches that benefit humanity and the ecosystem?‍

In 2014, Muxima Bio established the Secret Women's Meeting & Cocktail, a women's network that serves as a platform for sharing wisdom, knowledge, and access. By fostering collaboration and empowering women, Muxima Bio promotes gender equality and provides support for women to thrive in various sectors.

Self-Determination: In 2019, Muxima Bio founded the Humanity Summit, previously known as the International Intersectional Anti-Discrimination Colloquium. The Humanity Summit aims to bring together diverse perspectives, knowledge, and resources to address pressing challenges facing humanity. By promoting collaboration and innovative solutions, Muxima Bio actively contributes to positive social, environmental,and economic impact on a global scale. The Humanity Summit also raises awareness of human rights issues and advocates for their protection, encouraging action from governments and organizations.

Black Representation: Also in 2019, Muxima Bio established the Black Excellence Global Network. This global network connects experienced black professionals, including entrepreneurs, politicians, activists, academics, artists, writers, and influencers of color, and their allies worldwide. By providing access, knowledge, and a platform for collaboration, Muxima Bio strives to influence change, inspire black leadership, and make a positive impact on the world. Through this initiative, Muxima Bio addresses the underrepresentation of black voices and experiences in various industries.

In addition to these initiatives, Muxima Bio has produced TV content that promotes diverse perspectives. The Black Excellence Talk Series, broadcasted on RTP África, showcases and amplifies the voices of black professionals. The Indiscreet Diner Talk Show, designed and produced by Muxima Bio, not only won the Best Show of the Year award but also contributes to creating dialogue and understanding, including discussions relevant to the LGBTQI+ community.

Muxima Bio's efforts in promoting women's representation, self-determination,and black representation, as well as producing inclusive TV content, contribute to a more sustainable and equitable society. By empowering individuals, advocating for human rights, and fostering collaboration, Muxima Bio actively works towards positive change and a better future for humanity and the ecosystem.

How does Muxima Bio utilize media and content creation to challenge prejudices and stereotypes and foster dialogue on social issues?

Muxima Bio recognizes the influential role that media and content creation play in shaping perceptions and beliefs. To challenge prejudices and stereotypes and foster dialogue on social issues, Muxima Bio employs various strategies throughi ts media initiatives:

Representation and Visibility

Muxima Bio actively promotes diverse representation in its media productions, ensuring that underrepresented voices and communities are given visibility. By showcasing a wide range of perspectives and experiences, Muxima Bio challenges stereotypes and breaks down preconceived notions, helping to dismantle prejudices and biases.

Authentic Storytelling

It prioritizes authentic storytelling that captures the nuances and complexities of social issues. Through its content creation, Muxima Bio aims to present multidimensional characters and narratives that go beyond simplistic stereotypes. By sharing stories that resonate with diverse audiences, Muxima Bio encourages empathy, understanding, and meaningful dialogue.

Addressing Taboo Topics

It courageously tackles taboo topics and sensitive issues that are often overlooked or marginalized in mainstream media. By bringing these subjects to the forefront, Muxima Bio opens up space for discussions that challenge societal norms, raise awareness, and promote critical thinking.

Collaborative Partnerships

Muxima Bio collaborates with like-minded individuals, organizations, and platforms to amplify its impact. By joining forces with other media outlets, influencers, and activists, Muxima Bio expands its reach and creates synergistic efforts in challenging prejudices, promoting inclusivity, and fostering dialogue on social issues.

Engaging

Muxima Bio fosters spaces for dialogue, where individuals can share their perspectives, ask questions, and challenge assumptions. By fostering this dialogue, it cultivates a community that actively questions and examines societal norms and biases.

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What specific actions or strategies has Muxima Bio undertaken to influenceissues of equality and human rights on a political level?

‍As human rights defenders and lobbyists, we collaborate with variousorganizations and networks globally to advocate for change and apply pressurewhere necessary.

One approach taken by Muxima Bio involves addressing government officialsdirectly and engaging in lobbying efforts. By directly communicating withpolicymakers, we strive to highlight discriminatory practices, advocate forinclusive policies, and influence decision-making processes.

For instance, Muxima Bio has actively engaged with EU governments on specificissues. As an example, we have addressed governments regarding discriminatorynorms that were activated during the war in Ukraine. In response to ouradvocacy, the Portuguese Government demonstrated a prompt and positiveresponse. They welcomed non-Ukrainian nationals who were in Ukraine when thewar started, facilitating their entry into Portugal.

These actions demonstrate Muxima Bio's commitment to raising awareness, advocating for human rights, and fostering political change. By engaging in direct dialogue with government officials, collaborating with organizations and networks, and leveraging their lobbying efforts, Muxima Bio actively contributes to influencing political discussions and decisions to promote equality and human rights.

How do you envision the Humanity Summit making a lasting impact in areas such as poverty, hunger, inequality, climate change, and youth empowerment?

‍The Humanity Summit is envisioned to make a lasting impact through various initiatives:

The Humanity Pact Co-creation: A collaborative process involving individuals from diverse backgrounds and nations, working together to develop a set of short, medium, and long-term objectives. This co-creation process provides a roadmap to achieve these objectives, fostering collective action and ensuring a comprehensive approach to addressing global challenges.

The Humanity Pact Signature Ceremony: A significant event during the Humanity Summit where leaders from different countries, organizations, and institutions come together to sign the Humanity Pact. This commitment signifies a dedication to promoting dignity, equality, and rights for all individuals, transcending barriers of race, gender, nationality, or religion. The ceremony serves as a powerful symbol of unity and collaboration towards a more just, peaceful, and sustainable world.

The Humanity Index: In partnership with UALG and the Imperial College, the Humanity Summit aims to create a Humanity Index. This index will serve as a tool to monitor, evaluate, and measure the impact of public policy, governance, and product creation. By taking an intersectional standpoint, the index goes beyond traditional economic factors and considers other dimensions of regional development. This approach is essential to address historical marginalization, systemic oppression, and existing inequalities in a comprehensive and holistic manner.

By incorporating an intersectional perspective and considering the unique challenges and opportunities faced by different regions and communities, the Humanity Index can provide evidence-based solutions that promote equity, justice, and sustainability.

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What advice would you like to give to women entrepreneurs like yourself?

I would like to offer the following advice;

Find your purpose: Before diving into entrepreneurship, take the time to discover your purpose and passion. Understand what drives and motivates you on a deeper level. Clarify your values, interests, and the impact you want to make in the world. Remember, aligning your business with your purpose will not only bring you fulfillment but also contribute to creating a positive impact in underrepresented and marginalized communities.

Believe in yourself: Recognize your worth, talents, and capabilities. Have confidence in your ideas and abilities as an entrepreneur. Trust in your unique perspective and the value you bring to the table.

Seek support and mentorship: Surround yourself with a network of supportive individuals who believe in your vision. Look for mentors who can provide guidance, advice, and encouragement along your entrepreneurial journey. Join communities and organizations that focus on supporting underrepresented entrepreneurs.

Embrace your uniqueness: Your background, experiences, and perspectives are your strengths. Embrace your unique identity and use it as a foundation for innovation and differentiation. Celebrate the diversity you bring to the business world and leverage it to create a competitive advantage.

Build your skills and knowledge: Continuously invest in your personal and professional development. Seek opportunities to enhance your skills, whether through workshops, courses, or networking events. Stay informed about industry trends and best practices to stay ahead in your field.

Find your niche: Identify a target market or niche that aligns with your passion, expertise, and the needs of underrepresented communities. Understand the specific challenges and opportunities within that market and develop solutions that cater to them.

Network and collaborate: Build meaningful relationships with fellow entrepreneurs, professionals, and potential partners. Collaborate with others who share similar goals and values. Together, you can amplify your impact and support each other's growth.

Be resilient: Entrepreneurship can be challenging, but don't let obstacles discourage you. Learn from failures and setbacks, and use them as stepping stones for growth. Stay resilient, persevere through difficult times, and maintain a positive mindset.

Advocate for change: Use your platform and success to advocate for greater representation and inclusivity in the entrepreneurial ecosystem. Share your story, inspire others, and actively support initiatives that promote diversity and equity in business.

Seek funding and resources: Access to funding and resources is crucial for business growth. Research and explore grants, loans, and programs specifically designed to support underrepresented entrepreneurs. Seek out organizations and investors that prioritize diversity and inclusion.

Look after your mental health: As an entrepreneur, it's essential to prioritize your well-being and mental health. Running a business can be demanding and stressful, so make self-care a priority. Take breaks, practice mindfulness, engage in activities that bring you joy, and seek support when needed. Surround yourself with a strong support system that understands the challenges you face and can provide emotional support. Remember that your mental well-being is crucial for your overal lsuccess and happiness as an entrepreneur.

Pay it forward: As you achieve success, remember to uplift and support other women entrepreneurs from underrepresented communities. Share your knowledge, experiences and resources to empower and create opportunities for others.

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Photos courtesy of: Myriam Taylor