GUAP GALA’S 2023 ‘CONTENT CREATOR OF THE YEAR’ NOMINEES SUPPORTED BY [@INSTAGRAM]

The iconic GUAP Gala is an experiential award show aiming to celebrate creative excellence with categories ranging from ‘Actor to Watch’ to ‘Writer of the Year’; this year, for the second time in a row, the gala will also highlight the ‘Content Creator of the Year,’ a category sponsored by Instagram. 

The social platform has always been vocal in its mission of supporting creators, and this sponsorship clearly showcases its commitment to that mission. The nominees embody creativity, producing content involving music, fashion, comedy, and so much more.

With almost 2 million followers across his platforms, Asher Glean has become a household name with his hyper-relatable comedic content, quickly speaking to universal experiences we all deal with.

Another nominated comedy creator is Hemah K, known for creating and starring in the hilarious online series ‘Gemma K’s Perfectly Perfect Love Life,’ a fictional show, already two seasons in, following an awkward single girl’s attempts at love. 

The Beta Squad has taken over everyone’s algorithm, a collective of five men producing videos centering on dating, pranks, and challenges. One of its members, Sharky, known for his sarcastic wit, passion for gaming, and overall infectious personality, is also one of this year’s nominees. 

Rising star Uche Natori’s social media channels scream all things beauty and fashion, with hauls, make-up routines, and weekly vlogs giving us an insight into her daily life. Combining humour, honesty, and glamour, her videos make entertaining and soothing watches. 

For London-born rapper Stepz, fame came suddenly when his breakout song Cramp Dat went viral on social media. Now, he pairs his music with comedy sketches showing different POVs. 

Finally, East Londoner Big Manny has swooped the internet with his science-centered content. Testing different experiments with his signature candid voiceover, the 24-year-old creates accessible educational content that’s also profoundly entertaining. 

The significance of this category is monumental. Rewarding content creators who rely solely on their talent and charisma to build careers without a big production behind them showcases how their creativity is at par with more historically recognized disciplines. 

Thanks to the sponsorship of Instagram, we’re seeing a shift where different forms of creativity are being democratized and celebrated, challenging existing elitism and creating a whole new culture where content creators from all backgrounds are being recognized and valued.

Discover more from GUAP’s Arts and Culture Section here.