Aimee Yonce Shennel: A Radiant Star
Prepare to be captivated by the dazzling Aimee Yonce Shennel, a standout performer from the fourth season of Canada's Drag Race. With roots in the Dominican Republic and a flourishing career in Canada, Aimee brings a unique blend of cultural influences to her drag persona. Known for her high-energy performances and deep connection with the audience, Aimee is set to light up the stage at the Queens of Pride event in Windsor on Saturday, August 10, 2024. Hosted by WEPrideFest at Lanspeary Park, this celebration promises an unforgettable experience with a stellar lineup, including the renowned Trinity The Tuck Taylor.
“Remember to love everyone around you, especially those who send you hate. They hate you because they want to be you, they want to be as happy as you are. Share your energy, look out for each other, because that is what Pride means!!!”
DRAG MAG: Welcome, Aimee! How are you feeling about performing at Queens of Pride in Windsor?
Aimee Yonce Shennel: HOLA!!! I am super excited to perform and meet everyone at Queens of Pride in Windsor. It will be my first time going there and hopefully not the last one.
DM: Your journey began in the Dominican Republic and has flourished in Canada. How have these diverse cultural backgrounds influenced your drag persona and style?
AYS: My drag journey began in Canada in 2017, but my cultural background has definitely influenced my drag persona. I believe that coming from the Caribbean is what makes me unique in drag. We are super kind and welcoming to everyone.
DM: Can you share the story behind your drag name, Aimee Yonce Shennel?
AYS: Aimee means love in French. Yonce comes from the Queen Beyoncé, and Shennel is to honour my drag mother who introduced me to this beautiful art.
DM: What was your experience like on Canada's Drag Race season 4, and how has it impacted your career?
AYS: I had a very good time on CDRS4, and I would do it again if I had the opportunity. The way I was treated there was amazing; they really take care of the queens, ensuring we have a good time. My life hasn’t been the same since then. Traveling around the world (mostly in Canada) and meeting thousands of people, feeling their love and appreciation, is everything for me. I am looking forward to seeing what the future holds.
DM: You were named Miss Capital Pride and featured in the Queer Black Excellence Showcase. What do these titles mean to you, and how have they shaped your journey as a drag performer?
AYS: Winning Miss Capital Pride was the beginning of my crazy journey in drag. It’s the biggest competition in my city, and after winning, I have been busy nonstop. It definitely shaped my drag journey and prepared me for what was coming (CDRS4). Now I am ready for an ALL STARS.
DM: How do you prepare for your performances, and what can the audience in Windsor expect from your show at Queens of Pride?
AYS: We are going to party!!! I am going to bring my high energy to the stage and celebrate love! Every scenario is a different experience for me. I always project the show in my mind and plan every single detail in advance. I make my own mix and practice my moves. I don’t really choreograph my numbers (only when I have dancers), but I do moves and I do them well. I prefer to perform, give a show, and connect with the audience, ensuring they enjoy my number and aren’t falling asleep. I really enjoy and love what I do, and I can’t wait to share that energy with everyone.
DM: Who are your biggest inspirations in and out of drag, and how have they influenced your work?
AYS: Of course, Beyoncé in and out of drag. I just love everything coming from that woman. She inspired me to be free, to be me, and I want to inspire others in the same way.
DM: As a prominent figure in the drag community, how do you use your platform to advocate for representation and inclusivity?
AYS: I do a lot of volunteer work that people don’t even know about because I don’t post about it. I do a lot in my city for the community (refugees, new drag performers, drag kings, high schools, open stages, etc.). I should probably share more about these things, not to become more famous or buy people’s love, but to inspire others.
DM: What has been your biggest achievement in your drag career so far, and why is it significant to you?
AYS: Being on TV has been my biggest achievement so far, and I am looking for more. It is significant because I had the opportunity to share who I am with the world, let them know my human side, and touch and change people's lives.
DM: What role do pride events play in your life, and what does it mean to you to perform at such events?
AYS: Pride events mean a lot to me because being part of them is my way to honour and celebrate those who fought and gave their lives in the 70s, 80s, and 90s. Because of them, we have the right to be who we are. They started something, and it is our job to continue the legacy and ensure there is a safe space for everyone in our community. Being a drag queen and performing at pride events is my way to say we are here, we exist, and we aren’t going anywhere.
DM: How do you balance the demands of your drag career with your personal life?
AYS: To be honest, my drag career has become my personal life. I do have personal things I do out of drag, like meeting my close friends and family, but I enjoy drag so much that it has become part of my personal life.
DM: What advice would you give to aspiring drag performers who look up to you?
AYS: Try it! And if you are having fun, keep doing it. Ask questions, meet your local drag performers, and you will find a family and a community who will help you. Drag is a very competitive career, and you will meet people who try to put you down, but don’t let them! Remember, you are doing this because you love it, and one day you will be happy with your drag persona. Don’t try to be anyone else; find your own self. Practice and practice. I have been doing this for eight years, and I am still learning things every day. Never stop learning from others, keep growing, and never feel better than others. Share love and support everyone around you!
DM: Can you give us a sneak peek into any upcoming projects or initiatives you’re excited about?
AYS: Omg!! I can’t really talk about it, but there are projects on the table, and I am excited about them.
DM: How can fans and readers support you and stay updated with your work?
AYS: Following me on social media, and there will be some amazing merchandise at the festival on Friday and Saturday!
DM: Is there anything else you’d like to add or share with our readers today?
AYS: Remember to love everyone around you, especially those who send you hate. They hate you because they want to be you, they want to be as happy as you are. Share your energy, look out for each other, because that is what Pride means!!!
Don’t miss the chance to see Aimee Yonce Shennel and an incredible lineup of drag performers, including Trinity The Tuck Taylor, at Queens of Pride on Saturday, August 10, 2024, at Lanspeary Park in Windsor. Hosted by WEPrideFest, this event is a celebration of love, diversity, and extraordinary talent. Come out, show your support, and experience the magic of Pride!
Queens of Pride
Saturday, August 10, 2024
At Lanspeary Park in Windsor, Ontario