Anas Elshayib: From YouTube to Shaping Contemporary Arab Lifestyle

How did your content creation journey begin? Did you ever expect to reach this level of popularity and influence?

I started with a sincere heart and genuine effort on the Younow platform, presenting diverse content that blends humor with real interaction with my audience. I never expected my YouTube channel to reach 5 million subscribers with over 600 million views. All this success is due to consistency and perseverance despite difficulties, and I'm grateful that the Arab audience supported me with genuine love and conviction.

The Lifestyle Award you recently won—what does it mean to you personally? Do you feel additional responsibility toward your audience?

This award represents recognition of my effort and the value of the content I provide to millions of followers. I indeed feel great responsibility now, not only in content quality but in the messages I convey. I want to be a positive role model, especially for Arab youth who follow me. This award reminds me to continue presenting meaningful content that reflects both our Arab and humanitarian values.

You faced significant controversy over your recent visit to Algeria with certain female content creators. How do you handle this type of criticism?

This kind of controversy comes with fame and influence. I respect different values and cultures in each Arab country, and I understand that my actions may provoke varied reactions. But I also remember that I'm a 22-year-old young man trying to live his life naturally. What matters to me is continuing to respect the boundaries of each community, while being authentic with myself and my audience.

Arab content channels cover a wide range of topics. What subject do you feel is underrepresented on social media platforms, and would you like to focus more on?

I believe real social issues and problems that Arab youth face need more serious coverage. We focus heavily on entertainment and comedy, which of course is important, but I'd like to dedicate a larger portion of my content to discussing issues like mental health, education, and family life. I want to be a voice that reflects the reality of Arab youth authentically and without embellishment.

How do you balance your personal and public life as a content creator with this level of fame?

This is one of the biggest challenges I face daily. The line between personal and public life becomes very blurred when you're known like this. I've tried to set strict rules for myself, especially regarding my privacy and my family's. Sometimes I feel great psychological pressure, but I try to remember that my mental health is more important than any content or award. I've taken several breaks from filming and posting to recharge my energy.

What is your message to Arab youth who aspire to become content creators or influencers?

My message is simple: don't underestimate small dreams or simple efforts. Start with what you have, even if it's just a regular smartphone. Quality comes with repetition, hard work, and perseverance despite frustration. Also, don't lose yourself in your pursuit of fame. Maintain your values and principles, because your real audience will appreciate your authenticity more than anything. Most importantly, don't forget that fame is a responsibility, not just a privilege.

What are your future plans? Are you considering expanding beyond the digital world into TV or film projects?

Absolutely, I'm open to all opportunities that come my way. I love art in all its forms, whether digital or television content. But right now I'm focusing on developing my current content and making it more professional and impactful. In the future, I'd like to work on inspiring dramatic projects that reflect real stories from Arab life. I'm also thinking about establishing a platform to help talented youth develop their content creation skills. The goal isn't just personal success, but spreading real value and public benefit.