Grant Hinds: A South African Content Creator
Grant Hinds, a prominent figure in South African media, has been captivating audiences for over 13 years. Starting his career as a tech expert on the popular youth entertainment show Hectic Nine-9, Grant quickly gained recognition as a trusted source for all things tech and gaming. Today, he has evolved into a renowned professional gamer and tech enthusiast, with a dedicated and passionate following of viewers across the country.
In a recent interview, Grant shared insights into his journey as a trailblazing content creator in South Africa. He discussed the origins of his deep affection for technology and his transition from television and magazines to digital platforms like YouTube, Twitch, and social media.
Grant’s Journey into Content Creation
Grant’s content creation journey began during his time working on Hectic Nine-9. He made the bold decision to leave television and join Zoopi, a digital video company, back in 2008. Despite skepticism from others, Grant had a strong passion for the internet and digital video. He spent two years honing his skills in online digital video production, realizing the potential of platforms like YouTube. When he eventually left Zoopi, he carried those skills into his own YouTube channel, where he found a receptive and engaged audience.
The Thrill of Being a Professional Gamer and Tech Enthusiast
What Grant loves most about his work is the opportunity to indulge his natural enthusiasm and passion for technology and video games. He has been passionate about these subjects since childhood and feels fortunate to now call them his job. Being able to share his excitement with others and create content around his lifelong interests brings him immense joy.
Behind the Scenes of Content Creation
While being a content creator may appear glamorous, Grant emphasizes that it requires being a jack of all trades. Running a successful content creation business entails understanding various aspects, from financing and business models to editing, shooting, and being your own art director, scriptwriter, and director. Grant also highlights the importance of building long-term relationships with clients, ensuring his work stands the test of time and maintaining honesty and reliability.
A Journey into Smart Home Technology
Grant embarked on his smart home journey during the lockdown period. As a tech enthusiast, he saw an opportunity to connect various devices and create a more streamlined and aesthetically pleasing home. The ability to ensure his family’s safety through connected security cameras and a smart alarm system further motivated him to explore smart home solutions. For Grant, it is not just about the technology but also about providing a better quality of life for his loved ones.
The Appeal of Xiaomi and its Products
Grant’s affinity for Xiaomi started with his wife’s desire for aesthetically pleasing and streamlined tech products. Xiaomi’s clean and modern design, along with its ability to seamlessly integrate into any home, appealed to both of them. Grant also appreciates Xiaomi’s ease of use and plug-and-play functionality, making it a hassle-free experience. Among his favorite Xiaomi products are the bulbs for their simplicity and the IR blaster smart speaker, which allows control of older non-smart devices.
Advice for Aspiring Content Creators
Grant advises aspiring content creators to focus on their genuine passions and create content around them. He warns against pursuing attention for the sake of attention, as it leads to an unsustainable career and a lack of credibility. Grant emphasizes the importance of investing time in research and becoming an expert in one’s chosen field. By deeply immersing oneself in the subject matter, aspiring content creators can provide unique value to their audience and build a loyal community.