A Journey from Humble Beginnings to Social Media Stardom
Edith Monikhe, a popular social media personality with over three million followers on TikTok and 530,000 on Instagram, has built a remarkable career as a content creator. Her journey offers valuable insights into the challenges and triumphs of navigating the digital space.
Early Life and Education
Born in Edo State, Edith grew up in the Fadeyi area of Lagos. She comes from a modest background, living in a one-bedroom apartment where life was often tough. During rainy seasons, the roof would leak, and meals were a luxury. Despite these hardships, her determination never wavered.
Her education began without formal early childhood schooling, but she eventually attended Excel Kings and Queens School and Anabelle Primary School. She continued her studies at Command Day Secondary School in Ikeja before graduating from Standard Highmark College. Later, she pursued Microbiology at Yaba College of Technology, earning both her National Diploma and Higher National Diploma.
The Start of a Content Creation Career
Edith’s journey into content creation began during the COVID-19 pandemic when online learning became the norm. She downloaded apps like TikTok and Triller, experimenting with video creation. In 2021, while visiting her sister in Ibadan, she made a fun video that unexpectedly went viral in the United States. Tunde Ednut later reposted another of her videos, which showcased her unique style and confidence.
In one of her videos, she danced to a viral song and humorously broke her back, inspiring many slim girls. This moment propelled her into the spotlight, encouraging her to create more content and evolve as an artist.
Creative Passion and Personal Growth
Although she studied science due to her father’s influence, Edith always had a deep love for art. She is grateful that she didn’t let her creative side fade away. Today, she balances her scientific background with her passion for the arts, showcasing her versatility.
Favorite Platforms and Tools
TikTok remains her favorite platform because of its potential for growth and networking. While she also enjoys Instagram and other apps, TikTok was her first and holds a special place in her heart. Initially, she created all her videos alone, relying on the app’s camera quality. However, as her content evolved, she started working with others. Unfortunately, excessive screen time led to an eye condition, prompting her to hire a professional for filming.
Income Sources and Industry Challenges
In Nigeria, TikTok isn’t monetized, so most of her income comes from music promotions and brand deals. She also earns from YouTube and Facebook. Her phone and phone camera are her most essential tools, highlighting the power of technology in modern content creation.
Staying Relevant in the Entertainment Industry
Edith’s passion for the arts has always been strong. She writes songs, sings, acts, dances, and models. Before becoming a content creator, she participated in competitions, even winning a prize from Wole Soyinka. She believes in continuous learning and collaboration, emphasizing that success isn’t just about the destination but also the journey.
Handling Criticism and Creative Blocks
Online criticism was a challenge early in her career, especially regarding her body type. However, she learned to focus on the positive feedback and the people who were inspired by her confidence. She also emphasizes the importance of taking breaks and revisiting old ideas when facing creative blocks.
Misconceptions About Content Creators
Many people assume that content creators lead perfect lives, unaware of the real challenges they face. Edith highlights that they too experience problems and emotions, and it’s important to recognize their humanity.
Family and Future Goals
Her family supports her work, with her father and grandmother often watching her videos together. She finds inspiration in her African upbringing, often referencing her mother’s tricks from childhood in her content. She avoids political or spiritual topics, preferring to keep her content light and relatable.
Looking ahead, Edith envisions herself as a fulfilled businesswoman and entertainer. She hopes to make waves in the industry with her music and step onto global stages. Her story is a testament to perseverance, creativity, and the power of self-belief.
