MONROVIA — Contrary to popular belief, the rise of bloggers in Liberia is a testament to the country’s immense growth and creativity within the creative sector, as many individuals continue to leverage digital platforms to showcase their talents and promote local culture. People from various backgrounds are making their mark, driven by the desire to elevate Liberia’s image on global stages.
While numerous sectors have contributed to this narrative, the entertainment industry has been at the forefront, successfully bringing Liberian music and culture to international recognition. This growth has been facilitated by awards, collaborations with international artists, and an evolving narrative surrounding Liberia’s creative scene. Pioneering figures like Kerkula Blama have played a crucial role in this transformation.
In the dynamic landscape of Liberian media, one name stands out: Kerkula Blama, affectionately known as Aketella. With a career spanning several years, he has become a leading voice in Liberia’s blogging community, using his platforms to promote entertainment and cultural awareness. From humble beginnings in Bong County to becoming a household name, Kerkula’s journey is a testament to the power of digital media.
Born on April 25, 1994, in Salala, Bong County, Liberia, Aketella experienced the tumultuous years of the civil crisis that plagued the country. His parents are Gbandi natives of Kambolahun in Lofa County. From Bong County, they relocated to Monrovia when the war situation improved. There, he began his education in the Snow Hill community. After finishing his primary education, he attended Firestone Liberia Senior High School, laying the foundation for his future endeavors.
Currently a junior student at the African Methodist Episcopal University (AMEU), Aketella has seen his passion for blogging flourish alongside his studies. His early exposure to various musical genres and storytelling techniques motivated him to delve into blogging. Inspired by a few individuals who were blogging, albeit on a limited scale and primarily on Facebook, Aketella recognized an opportunity. “Most of them were blogging only for fun,” he recalls. “I believed that with my expertise from working as a writer with Plus Liberia, I could do better with my own platform and change the narrative.” He envisioned transitioning from casual Facebook blogging to a more authentic blogging experience on the World Wide Web, which has since inspired many upcoming bloggers to see the medium as a viable career path.
Aketella’s breakthrough came in 2016 when he started his journey in music production and blogging. He initially collaborated with local artists, gaining experience and honing his skills. His passion for writing led him to launch the blog LIB Geez, which quickly gained traction and paved the way for his entry into the entertainment industry.
In 2020, Aketella rebranded his blog as Geez Liberia, which has since grown into Geez Media Inc., encompassing various media platforms across Africa. His commitment to showcasing Liberian talent has resonated with audiences both locally and internationally.
His influence further expanded when he ventured into vlogging on YouTube, where he engages with topics relevant to the entertainment scene. As of now, his channel has amassed a significant following, reflecting his growing impact in the digital space. Additionally, Aketella has made his mark as a radio personality, hosting popular shows that connect listeners with the latest trends in entertainment.
Aketella’s achievements have not gone unnoticed. He has received multiple nominations for prestigious awards, including the WAFRIC Awards and Paynesville Entertainment Awards. His blog has been recognized for its contribution to the media landscape, and in 2022, he became the first Liberian blogger to surpass 150,000 followers on Instagram.
Beyond his professional accomplishments, Aketella draws inspiration from Edwin Jaleiba, a renowned Liberian blogger and his role model. He believes in the transformative power of music and media as tools for unity and cultural exchange, embodying the spirit of collaboration that defines the modern entertainment industry.
Ultimately, Aketella’s journey reflects the vibrant potential of Liberia’s creative sector. His story is a beacon of hope, illustrating how passion, dedication, and innovation can propel individuals and nations toward greater recognition and success on the global stage.
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