South Africa
Nationally known influencer, Lasizwe, shares tips on influencing─── HEIDRÈ MALGAS 08:00 Tue, 23 Apr 2024
He wins over his audience by humorously depicting everyday human behaviour.
A nationally recognised influencer on TikTok, Instagram, and Facebook, Lasizwe Dambuza, is on a nationwide tour to support underprivileged students. Recently, he made a stop at the Central University of Technology, Bloemfontein, where he delighted a deserving student with a laptop.
At 25 years old, Lasizwe boasts an impressive social media following: 2.4 million on TikTok, 1.6 million on Instagram, and 2.5 million on Facebook. He wins over his audience by humorously depicting everyday human behaviour.
Dambuza shared that he initiated this unnamed project after seeing the struggles students face, noting that financial aid is often scarce and unreliable for many.
Reflecting on his career, Lasizwe said, “I began my journey in the influencing world about seven or eight years ago. It was quite taboo in South Africa at the time, with many questioning the concept and the person behind the screen. It’s been an exhilarating rollercoaster with both highs and lows.”
Through his influencing career, Lasizwe has not only built a considerable online presence but also forged partnerships with major brands that share his commitment to giving back to the community.
He believed that influencing can be a transformative side hustle for students, offering them a path to job creation.
“You don’t need a large following to start,” he explained. “Influencing can be a simple way to create a job, focusing on something you love, like pedicures or nail care. This could be your niche.
Lasizwe Dambuza. Photo Facebook
“By educating people on your platform about foot hygiene, the perfect toenail colour for summer, or anything related to toes, you can attract followers. It’s about putting yourself out there and turning your passions into opportunities.”
He emphasised the wide array of topics one can delve into within the influencing sphere, such as assisting individuals struggling with math or educating them about the weather. “There are numerous avenues in the influencing industry that can be incredibly beneficial to people,” he said.
“With the creative freedom this space offers you can venture into anything. One day, you might be influencing the realm of haircare, the next, you could be an eyebrow guru, or even a toenail specialist, advising people on proper toenail maintenance. And if you’re consistent, that’s how you carve out your niche and become an influencer,” he elaborated.
A student from East London received a laptop from the well-known influencer. Video: Facebook
According to him, the initial step to capitalising your influence is identifying your niche, a widely acknowledged strategy. “A niche is essentially what you’re comfortable discussing regularly. Imagine being asked about toenail hygiene at 2 am; you should be able to respond effortlessly, without hesitation.
“Once you pinpoint your niche and understand what resonates with you, the next question is how to monetise it. Platforms such as Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube offer avenues for collaborating with brands that align with your niche,” he explained.
“There are brands specifically focused on areas like toenail care with whom you can partner because your messages align, thereby creating a source of income.”
He reflected on the essence of being an influencer and stated: “As an influencer, your power lies in the ability to significantly influence – for better or worse. My greatest inspiration comes from observing everyday people, their interactions, diverse characteristics, personalities, and even their tones.”
