Addis Meiraf Program interview with Solomon Gaga

Addis Meiraf Program interview with Solomon Gaga

Artist Rahel Getu and Actress Kidist on Addis 97 program. “It’s been great for someone like me that’s just now reaping the benefits of utilizing such a platform, or it can be used to do real harm to others – as we’ve seen in the past few months with the unrest in Ethiopia. It’s a delicate tool – one that needs to be navigated through balance & proper guidance. Or else, it would be easy to get lost in.” says Abel, commenting on Ethiopia’s internet culture. 

As much as the internet has democratized access to information and limitless contact with people from all over the world, it is not without its setbacks. TikTok has been accused of harvesting user data without consent and suppressing content that is in conflict with the owner of the company ByteDance and the Chinese government. But the opportunities a platform like TikTok offers can be great for someone looking to promote their work or become an internet influencer. As the Ethiopian media grows to accommodate younger creators, these content creators can redefine entertainment and change the media landscape.

Abel is hoping to capitalize on the space online marketing is creating for influencers and content creators. “I see the positive impact; so, now my work revolves around creating engaging digital content about my life that highlights my values to my audience. It’s been truly amazing to see the response and reception from people. Building a personal brand, developing content that resonates with the brand, and then growing your audience base because of those content has become a valuable commodity in this new digitally enabled world of marketing.