Afraa Kori
South-Sudanese comedian Ciang Ajeic is reaping what he’s sown online and in reality.
From a young age Ciang, who lives in Tarneit, was drawn to the world of comedy, finding inspiration from his surroundings and developing his own unique comedic style.
“I definitely think that African people are very funny people, my father, mother, brothers they all have influenced my personality and humour over the years. One of my biggest influences was my cousin MOOSH, his real name is Deng Amad. He used to make very funny videos all throughout high school and he really inspired me to try it out and taught me how to edit and shoot videos,” Ciang explained.
“My style of comedy is mainly observational humour based on my or my close friends’ lived experience. Also growing up as a chubby kid I don’t shy away from using self-deprecating humour too. I definitely developed my humour a lot during my childhood, I would use it to socialise with my peers, make friends and to defend myself from bullying.”
When Ciang officially pursued comedy in 2021, he was up against cultural norms and COVID-19 restrictions on the arts industry.
“I made videos for three years straight before I got a big following because I was patient and consistently tried every year,“ he said.
“I really appreciate everyone that follows me. Four years ago when I first started I couldn’t have dreamt of being where I am today. The best way I engage with them is through my skits on Instagram and TikTok. That’s how I started, that’s how it’s always going to be and that’s how many discovered me. So I can’t ever stop making videos that are relatable and funny.”
Now, his biggest challenge is embracing live comedy. After a friend suggested he try an open mic, Ciang got up on stage for the first time and “fell in love with it”.
“To be honest the only challenge I’ve faced as a comic from a diverse background is that many people from the brown and black communities are not really familiar with comedy in Australia. Many of them tell me that they have never been to a comedy show. So it’s been hard but worth it building that awareness of comedy over time. Through my platform and shows, hopefully we will have more brown and black communities at the comedy shows in the future.”
Ciang is changing the game by launching The Laugh House, a monthly comedy show, set to debut on 28 August at Kindred Studios in Yarraville.
“What made me want to start The Laugh House is basically the lack of brown and black comedy shows in Melbourne. So I thought instead of just crying about it, I’ll use my platform with the help of African Youth Alliance (AYA) to build that space for ourselves. I’m very excited to see what it grows into.
“Audience can expect a lot of laughs of course, but also a space that is accessible and that is welcoming, where they get to hear jokes and stories that they can relate to and understand.”
A highlight of his career has been touring nationally and performing for diverse audiences.
“This year was the first time I had toured the country to do comedy, although I was just opening for one of my brothers Dahn Rozario. It was definitely a big eye opening moment to see all the things that go into running a national tour. I learnt a lot from the experience.”
As a refugee who fled his war-torn country and migrated to Australia in 2004, Ciang approaches his life and career humbly.
“My journey, or should I say my family’s journey to come to this country and give me the opportunities that I have today, has definitely impacted my life and my perspectives. Because of my journey, I always try to keep a positive mindset. This reminds me of my favourite quote; sometimes I have to remind myself, that on my worst day I live like somebody on their greatest (Meek Mill).
“The people of my home country inspire me, the South Sudanese people. The things that we have been through in the past and we still have a smile on our faces and we still are very humble. I have dreams to inspire the next generation of young Sudanese kids, especially the ones that want to pursue comedy or entertainment. By making it, I can show them that they can also make it.”
Tickets to Laugh House: www.eventbrite.com.au/e/the-laugh-house-comedy-club-tickets-973602329777
