From Snapchat to Forbes

It still feels surreal to reflect on my journey, the very path that led to my work as Novián Cherry being recognized in Forbes. From just sharing random moments on Snapchat to seeing my content reach nearly a million people and being quoted in a major publication about 'Economic Empowerment Through Performance-Based Monetization,' it felt like a distant dream. I remember the early days, much like the dedication shown by someone meticulously assembling a wooden table – focused on the task, not the crowd. That hands-on, authentic approach was truly at the core of what I was doing. Many people ask how I went from zero followers to where I am today. My biggest piece of advice, and something I truly lived by, is to just start. You don't need fancy equipment or a perfectly polished plan. I began with my phone, sharing what I genuinely loved and found interesting. Whether it was a quick DIY project, a glimpse into my daily life, or even just talking to the camera, the key was authenticity and consistency. It wasn't about trying to be someone I wasn't; it was about sharing my unique perspective and building a connection. Snapchat Spotlight was a game-changer for me. It’s an incredible platform for creators to get discovered based on performance, not just existing followers. This meant that even if you had a small audience, if your content was engaging and resonated, it could reach a massive audience. I learned to create short, snappy, and visually appealing Snaps that told a story or shared a moment effectively. Understanding how to capture attention in those few seconds was crucial. It wasn't always easy; there were definitely times when my views were low, and I wondered if anyone was even watching. But that's where the 'keep going, even when no one's watching' mantra truly comes into play. Building a community, which I see as my 'friends' and supporters, is also about more than just numbers. It's about genuine interaction. I always tried to respond to comments, engage in conversations, and create content that felt like I was sharing with friends. My followers aren't just statistics; they're the people who have supported me every step of the way, watching my journey evolve from those initial posts to reaching hundreds of thousands. Seeing my profile with over 800,000 followers now is a testament to that collective journey. For anyone out there dreaming of becoming a creator, whether it's on Snapchat, Lemon8, or any platform, here are a few things I learned firsthand: Embrace your unique self: Don't try to mimic others. Your authentic voice and interests are your biggest assets. Consistency is King (and Queen!): Show up regularly. Even small, consistent efforts compound over time. Learn your platform: Understand what makes content successful on the specific platform you're using. For me, it was mastering the quick, engaging format of Snapchat Spotlight. Engage with your audience: They are your community. Respond, ask questions, and make them feel part of your journey. Don’t fear the start: The scariest part is often just beginning. Forget perfection and just put yourself out there. My path, from that initial spark of an idea to a Forbes mention, proves that dedication, authenticity, and a willingness to simply start can lead to incredible places. It's truly about the process and the people you connect with along the way.