My name is Bem,
and I am a storyteller.
My name is Bemnet “Bem” Yemesgen, an Ethiopian-American who loves to inspire teams, craft compelling content, and create memorable experiences.
My background is in design and creative development, but my real passion is in photography and film. One of my most cherished memories is the first time I used my dad’s 35mm Minolta film camera; the world always looks better through the optics of a viewfinder.
I’ve had the privilege of working for brands such as Discord, Adidas, Girl Effect (Nike Foundation), and USA Today. I currently serve as the Global Head of Creative Strategy and Brand Design at Twitter.
Follow me on social media @OhMybem
Grace and peace.
My Philosophy
Go For Broke!
I don’t believe in holding back. I aspire to be a person who does everything with passion, compassion, and optimism. I love taking on new challenges. If I believe in something, I go for it with all my heart, mind, and soul. I believe in the Oxford comma too.
People Matter.
In every work environment, I bring positivity, energy, and creativity. As an African who immigrated to the US at the age of 16, I’ve learned to adapt and form meaningful relationships with people from around the world. I’ve found that investing in people and learning to get along with different types of personalities is one of the keys to success.
Think. Think. Think. Do.
There is an African proverb; If your only tool is a hammer, you will see every problem as a nail. I’ve tried to live my life by a rule that has preserved me in many situations…there is more than one way to solve any problem, especially as a creative person. I strive to be a good listener, a thinker, and a creative problem solver.
My Top 5
You can learn a lot about a person based on what they like to read and watch.
Books
The Alchemist (Paulo Coelho)
The Hobbit (J. R. R. Tolkien)
I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings (Maya Angelou)
A Time to Kill (John Grisham)
How to Survive on a Deserted Island (in case I get stranded on an island)
Films
Cinema Paradiso (1988 Giuseppe Tornatore)
Do The Right Thing (1989 Spike Lee)
Black Girl (1966 Ousmane Sembène)
The Godfather II (1974 Francis Ford Coppola)
Fast and Furious…or…or….Coming to America 😊