There is a notion that creatives find work from their passion, but how does one keep that flame ablaze long enough to withstand generations of change? Ask content creator and YouTuber Aiken Chia, whose name rings familiar for the ones who enjoy good food and even better conversations.
“I have been in the entertainment industry since I was 21, and I am 35 this year. At heart, what I do is still the same: to create meaningful and impactful content, with heart and quality.” Aiken has witnessed it all: the rise of the YouTube scene in Singapore, to the sudden emergence of TikTok and how it took the world by a storm. “To evolve is to stay true to yourself. After all this time, I find greater importance in keeping my integrity. That includes my character, work ethic, and creativity.”
Despite the seemingly volatile landscape, Aiken knows who he is as a creator. Perhaps more aptly, where he stands as one. As expected from someone with a 20/20 vision, evident in the works he produces.
“I am blessed with opportunities I could have never imagined having, coming from a single-parent, lower-income family, and I plan to make the most of it. So instead of keeping up with trends, I always keep in mind to pour my love for this life into something that can in turn inspire others. My platforms may change, but my vision stays clear.”
To some, being authentic in the sea of endless audiences seems daunting. To Aiken, it seems to come almost naturally. It comes easy when your persona is, in fact, not one. In a way, Aiken is that friend in a group whose positivity is just radiant.
“I aspire towards being congruent, both on and off camera,” he says. On set, Aiken is friendly and all-smiles, though it being the first time he has met the crew. He puts many at ease, with his lighthearted jokes and charismatic personality that seems too real to have not been. In between his jests and laughter, there is a layer of pensiveness that makes him human. In a way, talking to Aiken does not feel like talking to a hard-to-reach influencer, but feels closer to reconnecting with an old-time friend for a coffee.
“Previously, I would show the more excitable, enthusiastic, and extroverted side of myself. As I venture longer as a content creator, I have been showing a more reflective and thoughtful side. To me, that is a deeper level of authenticity for myself and my audience.” It stands true, as he walks down the memory lane of how far he has come to be. Beyond the weight of his influence and the facade of fame, he remains humble and down to earth, the mark of a man who has hiked the mountains to get to where he is.
