Although becoming a YouTube personality previously seemed somewhat impossible, and despite being a full time university student, Fatma Sadiq has been sharing her channel ‘London Girls’ with Aaishah Sharif for one and a half years.

The content on the channel ranges from giving recognition to important personalities, professions and passions and raising awareness towards certain topics to humorous challenges and tags.

Fatma admits that prioritising her education plays a significant factor in holding her back from expanding the channel more. However, there are various aspects she wants to include in the future.

‘More travelling, promote a clothing line, spoken word poetry, documentaries- things that make a difference’, she suggested.

While their channel, with almost 17 thousand subscribers, is continuing to grow, Fatma discussed the realisations she had come to, after their channel had received negative responses.

‘There are hate comments, specifically with the negative perceptions of Muslims. It usually occurs on videos where we have invited other Muslims on our channel to discuss a wide range of topics. Those who make negative comments probably look at thumbnail, and assume things without watching the actual video. But we've realised that like everywhere else there are backward minded people on YouTube who make racists remarks and assumptions’, she says.

The ability to distinguish the mindless hate from the genuine support has allowed them to continue with the same essence they began with, preventing a hindrance in motivation.

More so, there are various YouTube personalities or other celebrities that continue to inspire her.

‘Dina Torkia, I’m in awe of her self-confidence, her big personality and what she has to say or talk about is always so interesting. I just feel like she’s really cool and it’s inspiring!’ Fatma exclaimed. ‘Emma Watson as well. She has so much elegance, but she also focuses on real issues-things that matter. I would really love to work with someone like that.’ she added.

Nevertheless, there are people in her personal life who bring her motivation and inspiration in various ways.

‘My dad, he’s always so positive- he’s always smiling and happy around others, he’s never sad around them, and that encourages my happiness and positivity’, she commented. ‘And my friends too, Aaishah, Nadia and Ikram, they uplift me through their motivation, she expressed.

As the channels of YouTube personalities continue to grow, the more influencing they become on those who view them. The most influential personalities have a huge impact on YouTube viewers whether it be in terms of behaviour, attitudes or lifestyle.

When asked what type of influence Fatma wishes she could give on their channel, if she became the most influential YouTube personality, Fatma said:

I think the main aspect would be positivity-to smile, accepting who you are, and not being afraid to be who you are. Always trying your best to be happy and knowing that whatever struggle you’re going through, time will heal it.’

Hafsa Moolla, City and Islington Sixth Form College