Who is Emily Nkomo?
A 19 year old who has way too many hobbies, and is still figuring life out. She has an obsession with stars, clouds and all forms of storytelling. She also loves talking about her home country Zimbabwe.
What would you do differently from what you do now?
I was studying speech pathology at the beginning of the year, so I would probably continue with that. I was studying speech pathology to ultimately become a vocal therapist! I also love working with kids, so I would probably have a casual job as a babysitter or something whilst studying.
Who inspires you and why?
My parents are honestly my biggest inspiration. When they immigrated with me from Zimbabwe in 2004, they left behind all they knew, including their immediate families. They trusted their ambitions without a single doubt. They took the ultimate risk and have built so much for our family. They inspire me to not think that any opportunity that I lead to, is unattainable. Instead, I should have the same trust and mindset that they had.
What would you do to make a difference in the world?
I’ve always believed that empathy is one of the most powerful emotions that we have. I would love to encourage us all to remember to use it. I think that if we were all just a little bit more empathetic, we would in-turn be more understanding of each other’s contexts, lives and overall be more loving towards each other.
Favourite holiday destination and why?
My favourite holiday destination would have to be Zimbabwe. I love visiting family and feeling at home there. The landscapes are so beautiful and untouched, and the sunsets there are INCREDIBLE. If I was to choose somewhere I haven’t been before, I would definitely say Spain or any tropical island.
When friends come to town, what attraction would you take them to, and why?
If my friends happened to come during Easter time, I would definitely take them to the Sydney Royal Easter Show. I LOVE rollercoasters and ride attractions and most of my friends do also, so it would be perfect! Seeing all the animals and going into haunted houses is always fun too.
What are you currently reading?
I got given the beautiful book, Half of a Yellow Sun – Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, by my English teacher last year. So, I’ve finally started reading it!
What are you currently listening to?
When I’m not listening to podcasts like The Bittersweet podcast or Goes without saying podcast, I will listen to music by Tori Kelly, to Doja cat. I love old RnB, as well as music from South Africa.
Happiness is?
Happiness to me is when you are so content in any given time, that you can’t do anything but live in the moment. When you don’t have any desire to stress about the next day, or what you accidentally shared in the morning. Instead, your mind is just filled with the pleasure of whatever moment you’re in.
What does the future hold for you?
I’m not sure, but whatever it is, I hope I enjoy it and keep growing and learning.
Emily stars as Frankie Healy in Jagged Little Pill – which plays its Australian premiere season at the Theatre Royal Sydney from 2 December 2021, before heading to Melbourne’s Comedy Theatre from 2 January 2022. For more information, visit: www.jaggedmusical.com for details.
Image: Emily Nkomo – photo by Stuart Miller