Today, Nepal’s digital platforms are witnessing a mass growth of content creators who are steadily making their mark across various social media platforms. From crafting captivating storytelling to showcasing their unique perspective on culture, lifestyle, and entertainment, these emerging creators are captivating audiences both locally and nationally. WOW talks to a few handpicked content creators who have made a mark on social media platforms, leading to a new era of creativity and representation for Nepali content creators. They share the inspiration behind their work, upcoming trends in social media, their signature style and more. Excerpts:
As a content creator, how do you view making a career in the fast-paced virtual world and the growing number of platforms?
Surakshya: Being a full-time creator is tough. It’s like riding through the Himalayas – thrilling but requiring focus and guts. Part-time can also be a good start, but there’s nothing like the freedom of following your passion. The good thing is, that platforms are growing tremendously, and with dedication, you can build a good career.
Being a full-time creator is tough. It’s like riding through the Himalayas – thrilling but requiring focus and guts.
Surakshya KC
Moto Vlogger
Shree: Being a full-time or part-time creator on growing platforms is a fantastic opportunity to turn your passion into a career. It not only allows for creativity and flexibility in your work schedule but also provides extra space for creative minds.
Ishtu: At first, I didn’t believe that content creation had a future. I also didn’t believe that influencers could make money. But now that I am a full-time content creator, I feel that content creation can be a profession.
Swastika: Being a full-time creator on growing platforms opens up exciting career prospects. It’s all about consistency, authenticity, and staying updated with platform trends to succeed in this dynamic industry.
What will be the upcoming trends in social media platforms?
Surakshya: I see things getting more real and raw. People crave authenticity preferably more live streams showing adventures, and more behind-the-scenes action while I ride my motorbike through amazing landscapes.
Shree: The upcoming trends in social media platforms are leaning towards short-form video content, interactive features like AR filters, and a focus on authenticity. The entire world is changing through digital disruption. We all are prosumers now, not just producers or consumers alone.
Ishtu: People are always looking for new things and new experiences. Let’s see how content creators respond.
Swastika: Upcoming trends in social media might include more short videos, smaller communities, entertaining and informative videos, or more apps that can hold the audience’s attention.
What inspires you to do what you do?
Surakshya: Honestly, it’s the mountains all around. Nepal’s beauty is unreal, and I love showing it off. Through my journey, I get to meet all sorts of people and know their stories, and that inspires me to keep exploring and sharing.
Shree: It’s the power of the media for the rights of the people. The strength and positive side of media can impact the holistic development of the country and its people. Now the different forms of media have created more ability and access to connect with a global audiences – faster and larger – with more creativity and thoughts.
Being a full-time or part-time creator on growing platforms is a fantastic opportunity to turn your passion into a career. It not only allows for creativity and flexibility in your work schedule but also provides extra space for creative minds.
Shree Pandey
News Presenter and Tiktok Creator
Ishtu: Seeing people who didn’t believe in the future of content creation now taking it up as a profession motivates me. Getting appreciation from influencers, actors, actresses, and the public boosts my confidence. Finally, meeting people from different professions and hearing their stories inspires me to generate new content.
Swastika: I have been in the media field for the past 15 years pouring my heart and soul into it. Being a workaholic, I am driven to achieve more and this keeps me inspired and motivated in life.
There are many content creators in the industry right now. What distinguishes you from them?
Surakshya: Well, I am a Nepali girl on a motorbike. That’s a unique combination in itself. I focus on the adventures and the challenges of riding through tricky roads. It’s not just sightseeing, it’s about the journey itself, the freedom of two wheels.
Shree: My dedication to media comes from a very young age. Understanding society and my experience working in leading media houses, I have gained in-depth and critical perspectives. I also get to meet some youngsters through my unique storytelling style, and my personal touch with Palpa. Authenticity is key.
If you want to make a career in content creation, do your research, invest your time, and work hard. Develop your own style.
Ishtu Karki
Content Creator
Ishtu: My content creation style is different. I take a story and add a product twist to it. No one else is doing that. Many people have praised me for this. Also, my stories are local, which most of the Nepali population can relate to. Now, many artists and influencers are copying me.
Swastika: My voice-over videos often get high reach. People seem to love my authentic and creative content, especially when I keep it simple and to the point. I am grateful that my voice connects with people.
What is your signature in content creation?
Surakshya: I like to be myself; my bubbly personality comes into the ride and also my content. I like to keep it raw so that my followers can connect with me easily. I enjoy capturing the breath-taking views of Nepal and letting everyone know what a beautiful country Nepal is.
Shree: My ability to use the platform to my advantage.
Ishtu: I think my signature creation is showing advertisements like a movie in a one-minute local story.
Swastika: I am always eager to learn and try new things. This makes my videos diverse, simple, and creative. By always pursuing what I love most, my content becomes both unique and easily recognisable.
How has the banning of certain platforms like TikTok impacted you? What are your views on bans like these?
Surakshya: Since TikTok is banned in Nepal, content creators have been severely restricted in their ability to share their work and connect with audiences. However, Instagram and YouTube are the main platforms from where I started and it helped me connect with people all over the world. However, TikTok was an added platform for me and just like other creators, it helped to reach wider audiences.
Shree: The ban on TikTok in Nepal has had a significant impact on content creators like me, affecting our ability to create content, engage with our audience, and run our businesses effectively. Many of us lost a platform that was not only fun but also a source of income and creativity. The government needs to consider monitoring policies that balance safety and freedom of expression rather than resorting to outright bans.
Ishtu: The TikTok ban didn’t affect me at first. Some brands cancelled their contracts, but my audience gradually shifted to Facebook. However, the TikTok ban is not a good thing. It has hurt the economy. We are paying taxes to the government and trying to survive. Small local businesses were running on TikTok and in an economically weak country like Nepal, not everyone can afford to be an influencer. Some creators were making creative videos and helping businesses grow. The TikTok ban has affected this. Everything has good and bad sides. Even good things have bad aspects. We need to focus on improving the bad aspects, not punishing people. The government’s decision is also illegal.
Swastika: The TikTok ban has affected not only me but also many business owners who saw their businesses flourish on the platform. While every situation has its pros and cons, the loss is significant for those who rely on TikTok for their livelihood and creative outlet. It provided a valuable opportunity for talented individuals. As creators, we must adapt to the evolving digital landscape and continue creating engaging content, regardless of the platform. Personally, TikTok was a great platform for me as I could quickly find useful tips and tricks in just a few seconds. However, its impact depends on how people utilise it.
What advice do you have for people who want to start their content journey?
Surakshya: To all aspiring creators out there, I would say don’t be afraid to find your voice and passion. Experiment, have fun, be authentic, and be consistent.
I am always eager to learn and try new things. This makes my videos diverse, simple, and creative. By always pursuing what I love most, my content becomes both unique and easily recognisable.
Swastika Rajbhandari
Entrepreneur & Makeup Artist
Shree: If someone is looking to start their content journey, I would advise them to first identify their passion. It’s important to create content about something you truly enjoy and are knowledgeable about. Consistency is key, so try to establish a regular posting schedule to engage your audience. Additionally, engage with your followers, collaborate with other creators, and always be open to learning and improving your content. Remember, authenticity is crucial in content creation, so stay true to yourself and your unique style.
Ishtu: Don’t copy content, some creators are jobless because of it. If you want to make a career in content creation, do your research, invest your time, and work hard. Develop your own style.
Swastika: Content creation is a challenging job that requires consistency, experimentation, and continuous learning from both successes and failures. Engaging with your audience and being open to feedback are crucial for improvement. Additionally, staying updated, having strong photography skills, and mastering editing are essential tasks. No one starts out perfect, and the only way to learn is by doing. So, go ahead and try it out without hesitation.
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