Joanna Ariel Jubitana, a dynamic force in the fields of education, enterprise, and activism, has made a significant impact as the Creative Director and Publicist for XO Records, the label associated with renowned musician Abel Tesfaye, formerly known as The Weeknd. Her journey is a testament to resilience, creativity, and a commitment to advocacy and change.
Joanna’s career began in the realm of education, where she distinguished herself as a dedicated teacher and activist. Her passion for constitutional educational reform led her to the forefront of advocacy efforts. In 2017, she was invited to lead a minority-focused initiative at the Teach Conference in Washington, DC, and later represented her zone and school as an NEA representative. Joanna’s activism included protesting against unconstitutional educational reforms proposed by Donald Trump and Betsy DeVos. Her dedication was evident as she participated in workshops, seminars, and engaged with local representatives, all while excelling as a highly effective teacher at Campbell Park Elementary.
After giving birth to her second son, Joanna transitioned from teaching to entrepreneurship, launching Jubitana’s Apothecary & Holistic Creations. Her brand announcement at the Shopapalooza Festival marked the beginning of her journey into the business world. Despite facing health challenges and a complex personal life, Joanna continued to build her brand and expand her influence.
Joanna’s personal and professional life took a dramatic turn when she moved to Yangon, Myanmar, to teach and build a new life with her family. Her time in Myanmar was marked by significant challenges, including health issues and an eventual separation from her husband. However, it also opened doors to new opportunities, including collaborations with prominent figures in the entertainment industry. Joanna worked closely with Abel Tesfaye on his After Hours album, which solidified her position in the music industry.
In 2020, as the world grappled with the COVID-19 pandemic, Joanna faced additional hardships, including a deteriorating political situation in Myanmar. She sought asylum and returned to the United States, where she played a crucial role in assisting the Federal Bureau of Investigation with investigations related to identity theft, espionage, and conspiracy.
Upon her return, Joanna continued her activism, focusing on human rights, privacy rights, and constitutional education reform. She also resumed her work in the music industry, partnering with Abel Tesfaye to address issues of corruption and trafficking within the industry. Together, they spearheaded the movement to transition Tesfaye’s stage name from The Weeknd to his birth name, Abel Tesfaye, a change that gained significant traction and was officially confirmed by NBC in 2023.
Joanna’s efforts in advocacy and activism extend beyond the music industry. She has utilized her platform to raise awareness about global crises such as human trafficking and peonage. Her work with Jubitana’s Apothecary & Holistic Creations Scrapbook & Spiritual Outreach, Inc., aims to promote holistic wellness, art, music, culture, education, and omnism. Her dedication to these causes has earned her recognition and support from prominent community leaders and even the White House.
As a resident of Miami Dade County, Joanna has made significant contributions to her community. She has been a vocal advocate for women’s rights, particularly those affected by domestic violence and homelessness. Her involvement with The Lotus House Women & Children Shelter highlights her commitment to creating a safer and more supportive environment for women in need. Joanna’s efforts have included working closely with the Mayor of Miami to implement changes that reduce risks for shelter residents, ensuring successful transitions for women seeking refuge.
Photo Courtesy: Joanna Ariel Jubitana
Joanna’s impact is also felt in the music industry through XO’s Sweetheart Records, a record label she founded to support talented musicians and address issues of exploitation within the industry. Her goal is to help artists brand and market themselves authentically, fostering a deeper connection with their audiences while combating peonage and trafficking.
As a published author, Joanna has further extended her influence through her book, “Reading a Natal Chart 101: Jubi Tarot™,” available on Amazon Kindle. Her expertise in spiritual and holistic practices has gained her a significant following, including endorsements from celebrities like Drake, Nicki Minaj, and Beyoncé.
In December 2023, Joanna was featured as a main character in a Fortnite campaign sponsored by The Weeknd, highlighting her continued influence and recognition in popular culture. Her ongoing activism in Miami Dade County focuses on building a safer and more conscientious city, reflecting her dedication to public service and community improvement.
For more information on Joanna Ariel Jubitana and her work, follow her on Instagram, Facebook, and visit her Linktree for additional resources and updates.
Joanna Ariel Jubitana’s story is one of resilience, creativity, and a steadfast commitment to making a difference. Her journey from teacher to entrepreneur, activist, and creative director exemplifies the power of dedication and the impact one individual can have on multiple facets of society.
Published By: Aize Perez
