This archive report was first published on 3 January 2020.
On social media, Faiza Hemed is known as @hujabi_villain, but her name is Faiza Hemed. She's a digital media specialist and content creator who has made a name for herself in the online comedy space.
Published on January 3, 2020, Faiza's story is one of passion, creativity, and breaking barriers.
As a former accountant, Faiza's transition into digital media was a deliberate one. She landed a job at a digital media company three years ago, where she met her colleague Cherie Lindiwe. It was Cherie who discovered Faiza's comedic side and encouraged her to pursue it.
However, Faiza is quick to point out that her content is not just comedy, but satire. 'At the end of the day, there's a lesson to be learnt from the content I produce,' she says.
When asked about who else she thinks is funny on social media, Faiza names several Kenyan comedians, including Chebet Ronoh, Esther Kazungu, Mammito, and George Kimani. She also gives a shout-out to the 'Kenyan meme gods' who are always creatively making people laugh.
As for making money in Kenya as an online personality or comedian, Faiza advises being strategic and intentional with content. 'There are various ways you can make money online; I'd say shout outs, sponsored posts, brand collaborations, YouTube monetisation, affiliate marketing, and selling merchandise,' she says.
However, Faiza emphasizes that producing high-quality content is key to achieving success in the online comedy space. 'You have to be intentional with your content, it should not be wholly viewed as a hobby,' she advises.
As a Muslim woman, Faiza has faced her share of challenges and expectations. 'There are so many people who have opinions on how we (Muslim women) should live our lives not only within our community but also from the outside looking in,' she says.
But Faiza is determined to break out of those boxes and live her truth unapologetically. 'I have a lot to prove to myself, and living my truth unapologetically is how I break out of those boxes,' she says.
Looking to the future, Faiza is excited about the growth of the entertainment and comedy space in Kenya. She's currently focusing on her YouTube channel, Faiza Hemed, and a channel called THE FAMM, where she produces fun, interactive content with five other people.
