This section explores the lived experiences of content creators. Through their personal stories — from their creative beginnings, moments of burnout and negotiating audience expectations, to the pursuit of authenticity, they reflect on what it truly means to build influence today.
The Power Within
Once, I was a fat girl who tried every wrong way to lose weight, from skipping meals to taking pills. Then one day, I came across fitness influencers from Taiwan and the West who weren’t necessarily slim like Cinderella, but strong, healthy, and glowing with confidence. They could eat well, stay active, and still look amazing. That completely changed how I saw health and beauty. I decided to start working out properly — not to chase a number on the scale, but to build a body I could be proud of.
When I began my fitness journey in 2017, I created a social media account just for myself. I wanted to record my progress, document my workouts, and share my meals. Back then, not many Hong Kong people were into fitness, so I didn’t expect anyone to watch. But surprisingly, people did. Many girls who struggled with their bodies the way I once did began following me. They saw a bit of themselves in my story, and that’s how my small online diary turned into a growing community.
What keeps me creating even today is my genuine passion for fitness. Exercise isn’t something temporary; it’s something that stays with you. It makes me happy, not only because I can eat and still stay fit, but also because I can see real progress: more muscle tone, a stronger body, a reflection I’m proud of. As my following grew, I began to realise that my story had an impact. That gave me a sense of mission to help other women avoid the mistakes I made, and to inspire them to find strength through fitness.
Of course, it hasn’t always been easy. When my channel started gaining attention, I began to feel pressure, afraid that what I posted might influence others in the wrong way or be harshly judged. I used to post raw, unfiltered photos and videos, but soon I found myself spending hours perfecting each post, worrying about how I looked. I developed anxiety about my appearance and body, wanting to look prettier or more polished on camera.
It took time, and a lot of self-reflection, to learn to embrace authenticity again — to remind myself, and others, that every version of ourselves deserves appreciation. I have also been troubled by online malicious comments and haters, but I am learning to respond with a calm mindset, using humorous ways to reply to them.
Being a KOL isn’t enough to live on due to limited advertising income. Especially when the economy declines, companies’ marketing budgets become smaller.
Financially speaking, I don’t depend on influencer income even now. Being a KOL isn’t enough to live on due to limited advertising income. Especially when the economy declines, companies’ marketing budgets become smaller. I also run my own gym and work as a fitness coach. My social media is an extension of that — a platform to connect, inspire, and bring people closer to a healthier lifestyle.
Over the years, my audience has evolved. At first, most of my followers were young women looking to get fit. But after I got married and became a mother, I started sharing my pre- and postnatal fitness journey, and it began resonating with other mums. That, to me, has been incredibly meaningful. Knowing that my story can motivate women at different stages of life gives me a deep sense of fulfilment.
Looking ahead, I hope my content continues to empower more people. The more my influence grows, the more I feel the weight of responsibility to share positive, honest, and uplifting messages. My goal isn’t just to promote fitness, but to encourage self-acceptance and to bring a bit of strength and positivity into the world. ■