MIKE, Mike and music

• By Kerry Lee

He was born with spina bifida, but Pukekohe’s Mike Brown has never let it stop him from achieving his dreams in music, fashion and life in general. Instead, the condition has taught him patience, mental toughness and the importance of never giving up.

“Growing up wasn’t easy,” he says. “The world isn’t built for someone like me. There were physical challenges and times I felt different, frustrated or left out.

“But when everyday things are harder, you develop a type of strength you don’t get any other way. I don’t know if I’d be this determined if life was easier because a lot of my drive comes from proving that circumstances don’t decide my future.”

Writing his own music since his teens, Brown attended the Australian Institute of Music, 2014–18. He gravitated towards rap because he felt it was the most honest musical style, one that helped him explain what he was going through and how he was feeling.

In 2020, he produced a single titled Ambition.

“Rap pulled me in and I started writing my own stuff. [The single] meant my voice, my story, my message was finally out there,” he says. “Living with spina bifida shaped a lot of how I see the world, so that naturally comes through in my music too. I try to make honest music. If it helps people feel like they can keep going, that’s all I need.”

Mike also launched his own clothing line known as MIKE. An acronym for ‘Most Inspiring Kind Ever,’ the message behind his brand, he hopes, inspires others to push past their own limits.

“I want people wearing my clothing to feel inspired, to be confident enough to back themselves and know they’re stronger than whatever it is they’re facing. Clothes can be more than fashion – they can carry meaning, energy and a message that reminds people of their own power.”

Brown uses social media to share his story, showing people that his disability does not define him. He advocates a positive, can-do attitude and aims to raise awareness of spina bifida.

“Most of my inspiration comes from my own life – struggles, staying strong, faith, purpose, and trying to grow as a person. If you dream big, keep pushing, and don’t let anyone else set your limits, anything really is possible.”

Spina bifida

Spina bifida is a condition in which the spine and spinal cord do not form properly during early pregnancy. It occurs when the neural tube fails to close completely, leaving part of the spinal cord exposed or damaged.

Severity varies, from mild cases with few symptoms to more serious forms causing paralysis, mobility issues and bladder or bowel problems. It can also be linked to hydrocephalus. Treatment may include surgery, physiotherapy and ongoing medical care.

Adequate folic acid intake before and during pregnancy can significantly reduce the risk of developing the condition.

More information is accessible by searching ‘spina bifida’ at healthify.nz.