Today we’d like to introduce you to Naomi Wheeler
Hi Naomi, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
My cosplay journey started in June of 2020 after seeing another cosplayer post their cosplay in a mutual Facebook group. It has been a very exciting experience between meeting new cosplay friends and beginning a music career as a nerdcore rap artist. Through this time, I’ve gained much support, becoming best known for my funny TikTok videos and reels on IG.
I’ve also had the pleasure of performing in cosplay at different con events in multiple states, uplifting and entertaining cosplayers from all backgrounds. My slogan “She Gon Be Black Today”, based on one of my viral TikTok videos, has been sung repeatedly on multiple social media platforms by loving nerdy fans who all agree that ‘cosplaying is for everyone’.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
It has, but it hasn’t. Being a POC cosplayer is not for the weak, and you definitely have to have thick skin. Fortunately, I have found myself surrounded by a beautiful community of POC and non POC nerds that support me in so many ways.
The main reason why I’m even known in the cosplay community is 𝑏𝑒𝑐𝑎𝑢𝑠𝑒 of the struggles I’ve had. To the bigots and trolls, you have to be absolutely perfect; an exact replica of the character you’re cosplaying. You have to be pretty, skinny, and the same color (for the most part).
In my case, the main problem is being a black cosplayer while cosplaying a fair skinned character. While you do get a lot of compliments, there’s also a fair share of backlash.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I’m a licensed Life and Health Insurance Agent. Patience, empathy, and endurance is definitely needed to thrive in this career. This works in my favor when cosplaying and interacting with unpleasant people.
Is there anything else you’d like to share with our readers?
I am so blessed to have gotten this far today. My cosplay song “She Gon Be Black Today”, all started from one troll telling me the character I was cosplaying (Hinata Hyuga) isn’t ’black’. Music is how I vent and express myself, so the song is how I responded. Much to my surprise, it immediately went viral with over 3 million views on TikTok alone, and I received so much love!
This topic is continually relevant in our community, as the troll problem still exists. Fortunately, my song is still helping POC cosplayers to continue being nerdy, weird, and free to cosplay whom they want. Some even 𝑠𝑡𝑎𝑟𝑡𝑒𝑑 cosplaying after hearing it! I love to see it.
Lastly, I did start up a merch line with my slogan, so that’s exciting too, lol.
Pricing:
- Cosplayer Appearance at Cons – (Travel / Lodging – Minimium)
- Men / Women T-shirts – $27 and up
- Men / Women Hoodies – $49 and up
- Nerd Event Performances – Based on availability
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/afrococoapuffs
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@afrococoapuffs
- Other: https://www.bonfire.com/hegonbeblack2day/
