The days after reclaiming my voice felt like stepping into uncharted territory. I was no longer just a man telling his story; I was becoming a beacon for others, a rallying point in a sea of silence. But building influence wasn't an accident—it was a deliberate, sometimes painful, process of growth, connection, and trust.
The Early Days: Finding My AudienceAt first, my audience was small—family, friends, and a handful of strangers who stumbled across my videos or blog posts. I quickly realized that stories alone weren't enough. People wanted to feel seen, heard, and part of something bigger. So, I focused on creating content that wasn't just about me but about us—the everyday people fighting against corruption and injustice.
I began engaging directly—responding to comments, answering messages, and encouraging followers to share their experiences. This was the beginning of community-building. Every interaction mattered.
Collaborations and NetworksRealizing I couldn't do this alone, I reached out to other activists, bloggers, and content creators. Together, we shared resources, cross-promoted content, and even organized small virtual meetups. These collaborations expanded my reach and introduced me to new perspectives and tools.
One memorable collaboration was with a young activist in Lagos who had started a grassroots campaign against local government bribery. Our joint podcast episode sparked thousands of shares and connected two communities united by a common cause.
Navigating Trust and CredibilityWith growth came skepticism. Some questioned my motives; others doubted my story. In a society where trust is fragile, proving credibility was essential. I made transparency a cornerstone—sharing behind-the-scenes glimpses of my process, admitting mistakes, and consistently delivering value.
This openness built trust slowly but surely. People began to see me not just as a storyteller but as a reliable ally in the fight against corruption.
Leveraging Social Media and PlatformsSocial media was both a blessing and a challenge. Platforms like Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and YouTube became my megaphone but also a battleground. I learned to tailor content for each, understanding what worked where. Short videos gained traction on Instagram and TikTok, while long-form podcasts and articles found audiences on YouTube and blogs.
I also faced algorithm changes, censorship attempts, and the constant pressure to stay relevant. But by staying authentic and community-focused, I maintained steady growth.
Personal Growth and LeadershipAs the community grew, so did my responsibilities. I wasn't just creating content; I was leading conversations, mediating conflicts, and mentoring new voices. This required learning new skills—conflict resolution, public speaking, and digital marketing.
I invested in online courses, read extensively, and sought mentors who had walked similar paths. This personal growth was as vital as any technical skill.
Building influence was not a sprint but a marathon—a journey of patience, resilience, and genuine connection. Each new follower wasn't just a number but a person joining a movement. And with every connection, the fight against injustice grew stronger.