The TikTok Level Up Africa Creator Day brought together influencers from across the continent to discuss their journeys, challenges, and experiences as content creators on the platform.
Among the key participants was Belove Olocha, who joined a panel alongside Felistus Mwangi and sports influencer Stone Avenue.
The panel explored the evolution of their content and how they’ve maintained success on TikTok.
Olocha, a rising creator known for her engaging content, reflected on her start in the world of TikTok.
When asked by panel host Felistus Mwangi how she began her TikTok journey, Olocha explained that it all started unexpectedly.
“I had just resigned from my job, and coincidentally, that was when Big Brother Naija launched its seventh season. While enjoying the show, I felt like sharing my thoughts and comments,” Olocha recalled.
She decided to record her first TikTok commentary, which garnered 10,000 views in just one day.
“This was a shocking feat, and I decided to lean in more as there was an audience waiting for such content,” she said.
The discussion also touched on measuring success and growth as a social media influencer. Olocha emphasised the importance of appreciating one’s current followers, rather than solely focusing on growth.
“People look down on their follower count and try to compare themselves with other influencers with millions of followers without pausing to appreciate the present followers they have,” she noted.
Olocha added, “Imagine you have a thousand followers, and they were to be here physically—you would understand that a thousand people are a lot.”
She stressed that every follower counts, and even influencers with millions of followers “started small.”
Olocha also shared how building a community has impacted her life. “It’s so humbling to see that anytime I go out, people recognize me, and it brings a warm smile to my heart,” she said.
However, she acknowledged that being a social media influencer is demanding. “Most times, I don’t even have the physical strength to film any content, but I am aware I am now part of something way bigger.
“It will be rude to keep a hundred thousand people waiting, especially when these people care about me as a creator,” Olocha explained.
When asked about TikTok’s role in supporting creators, Olocha was quick to praise the platform.
“TikTok is changing lives, especially among the younger generation. TikTok cares about creators and goes out of their way to teach creators how to navigate the platform to gain the most out of their creativity, which is extraordinary,” she concluded.
The event highlighted the growing influence of TikTok in Africa and underscored the dedication of creators like Olocha, who continue to shape the platform’s vibrant community.
