DUBAI: Anas Bukhash, a famous social media influencer with over 2.3 million followers on Instagram, has made a thought-provoking statement: ‘Curiosity is in the DNA of human beings, but as we grow, the fear of criticism takes over, inhibiting us from expressing ourselves or reaching our true potential.’
Speaking during the session “The Story of an Emirati Podcaster” on day one at the 1 Billion Followers Summit in Dubai, Bukhash discussed his varied entrepreneurial ventures, including working as a mechanical engineer, followed by stints in the petrochemical industry, humanitarian works, football clubs, etc., before embarking on his journey as a content creator and eventually starting his YouTube channel #ABtalks. His channel now boasts over 2.1 million subscribers and has featured world-renowned personalities, including Bill Gates, Jay Shetty, Ronaldinho, Laila Abdullah, and Angham.
‘When I launched #ABtalks, a lot of people argued that a long interview format would not work. But I stayed true to my convicti
on. I posted every week, and since the launch of my channel, I have interviewed world-famous personalities, including Bill Gates,’ said Bukhash, adding, ‘It pays to stay consistent.’
Bringing the well-received format of #ABtalks to the stage of the 1 Billion Followers Summit, Anas Bukhash conducted ‘A Social Talk with Mishary Alafasy.’ Alafasy is a Kuwaiti imam, preacher, and nasheed artist.
Discussing his journey, Alafasy attributed his social media success to his passion for Quran recitation from a young age. ‘Since kindergarten, I have been a presenter and a reader. I started my channel in 2004-5, which was way ahead of its time. Yet, it was well received.’
Alafasy boasts more than 8.2 million followers on Instagram and over 9.5 million on YouTube. Talking about positive and negative feedback on his social life, Alafasy encouraged content creators to take criticism positively. ‘Turn negative feedback to your advantage and use it to improve yourself. Always remember, innovation will put you at odds with
others. If you have a clear goal, nothing else matters, and nothing should bother you,’ said Alafasy.
The social media giant also advised content creators to stay true to themselves. ‘Many people forge their personality according to social media. It should not be the case.’
Organised by the first digital media institution of its kind in the Middle East, New Media Academy, the UAE’s premier hub for content creation is taking place on January 10-11, 2024, at the Emirates Towers and the Museum of the Future in Dubai.
The largest event of its kind globally, the Summit brings together over 3,000 content creators, influencers, and creatives from all around the globe, including 100 expert speakers, to address and inspire over 1 billion people worldwide and discuss new media’s role in supporting economies and contributing to sustainable development agendas.
Source: Emirates News Agency
