What does it take to turn a good story into influence? That question took centre stage at the ‘Going Green, Going Viral: Digital Storytelling & Influence for Sustainable Trade’ seminar, hosted by Gogo and Slwane during the 2026 Eswatini International Trade Fair.
The seminar brought together conversations around digital storytelling, sustainability and the realities of creating content in Eswatini, with influencers Zindzi Thwala and Mdura the Comedian joining the discussion.
While sustainability was at the heart of the seminar, the conversation quickly expanded into the wider digital landscape and the growing influence of content creators.
One of the key discussions centred on data collection and the importance of understanding the actual data behind digital platforms.
For creators and businesses, numbers can tell a story of their own from understanding audiences and their interests to knowing what content is performing and where opportunities exist.
The discussion highlighted that digital influence is not simply about going viral. Behind successful digital storytelling is an understanding of audiences, platforms and the information available to creators and businesses.
Artificial intelligence was another major talking point, with the technology increasingly becoming part of the content creation process.
From generating ideas to assisting with different stages of production, AI is changing how people approach digital content.
However, the conversation also raised the importance of understanding how to use these tools rather than simply relying on them.
While AI becomes more accessible, creators still need their own voice, creativity and understanding of the audiences they are speaking to.
For creators in Eswatini, the conversation became particularly relevant when access was discussed.
Building a career online from a small market comes with its own challenges. Content creators are not only navigating algorithms and changing trends, but also the realities of creating from Eswatini, where access to certain opportunities, platforms, campaigns and digital resources can sometimes be different from larger markets.
The discussion opened up questions around how local creators can position themselves for opportunities beyond the Kingdom while continuing to tell stories that are rooted in Eswatini.
Zindzi Thwala and Mdura the Comedian brought their own experiences to the conversation, offering insight into the realities of building an audience and maintaining relevance in a fast-moving digital space.
Their participation also reinforced the growing role of creators as more than entertainers.
Today, digital creators can influence conversations, introduce audiences to businesses and products, educate their followers and shape how places and communities are seen.
For businesses, this presents an opportunity to work with creators who understand how to communicate with audiences in a more personal and engaging way.
Ultimately, ‘Going Green, Going Viral’ was a reminder that digital influence is evolving.
Sustainability, data, artificial intelligence and creativity are increasingly connected, while creators are finding new ways to turn their platforms into spaces for storytelling and opportunity.
While Eswatini’s digital community continues to grow, conversations like these are becoming increasingly important particularly for a new generation of creators looking to make their mark both at home and beyond the Kingdom.
