Rhythms of Regenration
It's hard to believe we're approaching our one-year anniversary next month! As I sit with what makes Queer Aperitivo so special, I keep coming back to the people who've helped create this community. At the heart of it is our resident DJ, Sunny Cheeba, whose commitment to both sonic and soil-based nourishment embodies everything we value. As someone who always brings it with the looks, the vibes, and the energy, Sunny's work represents the exact vision we're trying to cultivate: spaces where we can blend together nourishment and naughtiness, healing and pleasure, politics and principles. I sat down with Sunny to talk about her journey as both DJ by night, farmer by day and how these seemingly different worlds form a cohesive vision of liberation.
ORA: I wanted to start by saying that as we get close to our one-year anniversary, having you as our resident DJ has been such a blessing. You always bring it with the looks, the vibes, the energy, and your music is exactly what we want – upbeat but chill, sexy and flirty and playful. What first made you say yes to DJing Queer Aperitivo?
SUNNY: I first met you at a fundraiser focused on food work, and as a farmer who understands the impact of growing food on society and culture, I'm super selective about what I say yes to—I only commit to projects that align with my values.
It's been beautiful gathering in a space with such fun, beautiful, queer, and fabulous people. I love partying for a cause, and the fact that your drinks fund food programs and support farms is incredible. That's exactly the kind of initiative I'll always support.
On the universal languages of food & music
SUNNY: For me, farming, food, and music feel like the universal language. Anywhere you go, you want to eat the food or listen to the music of the culture. Wherever you're traveling, whatever family function, music and food are always at the center.
It's funny how we always come back to things we loved as kids. I grew up in the Bronx with young parents during such a vibrant time in New York City. I was always like a walking boom box – that was the joke in school.
ORA: Yes! Thank you for being our boombox now! And thank you for representing the vibrancy of New York City, especially the Bronx.