Mentor 12 Winner Byno Ayoni Opens Up About Industry Rejection Due to Albinism

Byno Ayoni, the winner of TV3’s Mentor Season 12, has shared the significant challenges he’s encountered in his music career, largely due to misconceptions surrounding his albinism.

Speaking with DJ Slim on Hitz FM’s Daybreak Hitz, the singer opened up about how society’s misunderstanding of the condition has cost him numerous career opportunities.

According to him, in his pursuit of career success, he attended various auditions for major music platforms, only to be dismissed for reasons linked to his appearance. Reflecting on these experiences, he said, “I have been to a couple of auditions, done very well, gone back the next day and got the response that I did not look marketable enough because I am an albino.”

Byno further explained that his albinism has been used as a reason to deny him opportunities.

“My looks alone is not the excuse. They said I did not look marketable and then they would say because of the problem with the eyes of albinos, I would not be able to perform (at night) but then I would go for auditions and I would perform and they would say it’s good, ask me to come tomorrow. I would go and they will tell me to come another day all because of who I am,” he recounted.

Despite these setbacks, Byno remains optimistic as more people begin to recognize his talent, and he believes the stigma attached to his condition is gradually fading. He proudly reflected on his victory in Mentor 12, demonstrating confidence in his abilities, irrespective of the prejudice he has faced.

Currently signed to Edem Goget’em’s Volta Regime Music Group, the musician has released tracks like “I Dey Like” and collaborated with Edem on several projects. His journey is one of perseverance and dedication, standing as a reminder of the hurdles that many talented individuals with albinism still face in the entertainment industry.