Susan Be. – Musician, Poetess, and Award-Winning Social Scientist
@Thomas Rafalzyk
Susan Be. is the stage name of the singer-songwriter, poetess and award-winning social scientist Dr. Susanne Belarmino (née Bartel).
Originally from Germany, Susanne has forged an unconventional path that bridges art, science, and innovation. As an award-winning social scientist, she led groundbreaking AI projects for people with disabilities as Head of Research and Development for a nationwide rehabilitation organisation. She has managed networks, fostering collaboration between policymakers, researchers, medical experts and industry leaders to drive social innovation. A qualified mediator, she has extensive experience in conflict resolution, bringing a deep understanding of human interaction into both her professional and artistic work.
Yet, beyond data and innovation, music and poetry always called her back. In 2022, she followed her heart to New Zealand, where she now resides with her husband, street photographer, poet, and abstract artist JP Bell (Jaypee Belarmino). Their connection became the foundation of her deeply personal music album "Home" and continues to inspire her art.
With a background in Northern Indian classical music and as well as 3 released albums and severals singles as a singer-songwriter, she is a versatile artist who moves effortlessly between genres, bringing both structured improvisation and heartfelt storytelling to her music.
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Currently, she is working on a new album, delving deeper into the themes of love, longing, and transformation that define her music.
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Performing across Canterbury, New Zealand, she brings her music to intimate venues and community events, forging connections through song. Beyond the stage, she also explores digital art, co-creating with JP Bell to transform poetry and music into visual storytelling.
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