**Akili Ni Mali** is a Chicago-based professional actor and recording artist whose sound blends R&B, soul, jazz, and pop. Drawing inspiration from artists such as Jazmine Sullivan, Erykah Badu, Rachelle Ferrell, Sade, and India Arie, Akili’s music is rooted in rich vocal expression and emotive storytelling. She released her debut EP Breathe, in 2020, followed by singles Good Life (2020), Right (2021), Sold (2022), Lana Del Rey (2023), 9–5 (2024), Changes EP (2024), Ick (2025), S’éloigner (2025), Mr. Chief (2026), and most recently Sunset(2026). Beyond the stage, Akili is a devoted mother to her four-year-old son, Leo, and wife to Luke Tormoehlen. Motherhood and marriage have profoundly shaped her artistic purpose, deepening her sense of intention and “why” as a creator. Akili’s work continues to gain recognition, including being named one of four featured artists for Art & Soul 2025 by the Indy Arts Council. Now based in Chicago, she is actively seeking to connect and collaborate within the city’s vibrant artistic community.