When she’s not causing a frenzy on Twitter, she’s creating a safe space for her online community with impactful conversations. Beyond being a top voice on the internet, she wears many hats. Meet Virtuous Irianele, popularly known as Osasbaby; a talent manager, brand strategist, influencer marketing strategist, storyteller and community manager.
On this episode of Interneting: The DIY Way, Osas takes us on her ride as a digital nomad, reflecting on her journey as a creative and how the internet has influenced her over the years.
Can you share your journey of how you started utilizing the internet as a creative platform?
In 2015, I had just found out about Instagram while running a WordPress blog on the side. I figured that it wouldn’t hurt to expand my storytelling skills to the app and so I did. Every time I posted a story on WordPress, I’d take screenshots and post excerpts on Instagram so people could go read it on my blog. I was fresh out of school as well as a whole lot of others, we didn’t really have a lot of options when it came to teen blogs so I positioned myself as one and made a lot of people subscribe. I couldn’t have done it without WhatsApp tbh because those broadcast messages helped me a lot.
What’s your most memorable moment as a creative?
I’ve had a lot but in 2017, I saw my name on an award nomination list under the categories – “Teen Writer of the Year” and “Storyteller of the Year.” I was in my hostel when someone sent the link to me, at that time, I saw people fight to be nominated because it was a big deal back then. I figured I would enter my blog that year and cross my fingers but I didn’t have to. I won the first category even though I couldn’t make it for the award show and I screamed round the hostel. I was used to being validated but this one was special.
What are some common misconceptions about being a creative on the internet, and how do you address them?
The major one has to be people thinking that I’m not a nice person. I don’t bother addressing this one because a lot of times, if and when they see me in real life, they’ll change their mind.
How do you handle criticism or negative feedback on social media platforms?
By critiquing the “criticizers” back. We can go critique for critique 🙏🏾
How do you manage burnout as a creative?
I take a break and watch a fun series. Sometimes, I feel like I have to take a break from watching series to be a creative. I always know when to go off, the issue is coming back.
What’s the weirdest or funniest comment or DM you’ve ever received on social media about your work?
I’ve had a lot of audacious people in my dm, I honestly can’t remember off the top of my head.
Can you share a funny story from your journey as a creative that still makes you laugh today?
In 2015, I was offered 5k to sell my script for a short film. He was so convincing. He really told me to sell the script but my name won’t be in the credits. I may have been hungry but I could manage my hunger. The way I ran!
Two people you’d love to see answer these questions?
Fisayo Fosudo and Asake
The DIY Collective 