What happens when your intersectional identity meets the social media algorithm?

This week on The Banh Mi Chronicles, we sit down with the incredibly insightful Johnathan Gibbs—a queer Black and Filipino content creator and founder of The Otaku Choir. Johnathan shares his unique journey, from navigating his Black and Filipino roots growing up in Mississippi to making his mark as a creator in NYC. We dive deep into the current social media landscape, how platform algorithms affect building content and genuine community, and what it truly means to create space for your authentic self online.

Bio:

Johnathan Gibbs is a trailblazing content creator who has been at the forefront of online media since 2008, when YouTube and digital platforms were still in their early days. As a Black Filipino American, Johnathan brings a unique perspective on life experiences at the intersection of Black and Asian identity, which he has shared fearlessly throughout his career. His past work includes hosting the award-winning podcast This QPOC Life, which offered nuanced and insightful views of the world through the lens of a queer person of color.

In 2020, during a time of heightened tension between Black and Asian communities, Johnathan founded the Black and Asian Alliance Network, fostering solidarity, advocacy, and understanding. His work has been recognized with the Brooklyn Free Speech Award for outstanding contributions to media and activism.

Today, Johnathan is the founder and artistic director of the NYC Otaku Choir, a first-of-its-kind community ensemble that blends anime, video game, and Asian pop culture repertoire with choral traditions. Through this project, he continues his commitment to uplifting marginalized voices, advocating for representation, and creating spaces that reflect the diversity of New York City.

With an unwavering dedication to community, artistry, and social justice, Johnathan continues to inspire and empower others—leaving an indelible mark on both digital and real-world stages.

IG: @ jonahsahn