Many people seem to think that being a social media influencer is a job that does not require one to work hard. They feel all one needs to do to be a successful influencer is just to look beautiful and make posts on social media.
However, a social media influencer, Aishat Raheem, aka Yomidun, maintains that that is not correct. In an interview with Sunday Scoop, she said, “Being an influencer is a lot of work. First, I have to be creative to create contents for brands. I also have to book good locations, work with videographers, and also edit the videos.
“I use social media tools to make my work easier, but most times, it takes hours and several retakes to get the best 60 seconds video for a brand.”
She also disagreed that all a female influencer needed to be successful was to flaunt her beauty. She said, “Social media influencing is about marketing a brand to attract customers. It also creates more brand awareness, which enables customers to have more insights into the brand, and what the brand can achieve to satisfy their needs.”
Speaking on her current projects, Yomidun said, “I am currently working on building my own clothing brand.”
On whether she had ever faced gender discrimination and sexual harassment, the social media influencer said, “I have not faced sexual harassment and gender discrimination in the course of my career. I have a management that represents me.”
She also stated that being in the limelight came with its peculiar challenges. She added, “Being in the public eye comes with a lot of backlash, bullying and negative comments. Sometimes, people create and circulate rumours about one just to bring one down. However, I always remain consistent in achieving my goals. I only focus on the positive reviews and constructive criticisms to constantly improve.”
Advising budding social media influencers, Yomidun said, “My advice to them is that they should be tenacious in building their brands, even when people don’t give them the chance to achieve their dreams. Everyone’s dream is valid if they remain consistent. I would also advise people to have role models that they can look up to for guidance and support.”
Giving her definition of success, she said, “Success, to me, is doing what one loves and being authentic while at it. I believe one is successful when one has found one’s purpose, and commits one life to it.”
