Sanyuka TV presenter Hellen Menta is setting her sights on one million social media followers as she continues building her profile as a media personality, content creator and influencer.
The Ugandan entertainer, whose real name is Hellen Natukunda Muganga, says consistency, authenticity and careful selection of brand partnerships are central to her approach to digital content.
Born in Kyengera and raised in Nansana, Menta has combined her television career with acting-based promotional videos for businesses and artists. She says content creation has positively affected her livelihood, giving her another avenue to develop her career.
In a brief interview with MBU, Menta explained that digital influencing offers greater flexibility than traditional media, allowing her to create content on her own schedule while reaching audiences beyond television.
“Influencing is done comfortably and in my timing than traditional media,” she said, adding that it appeals to more people than traditional media.
Balancing both careers requires a structured routine. Menta said she works on television from Monday to Saturday and reserves Sundays for shooting TikTok videos.
She also relies on someone else to edit her videos, allowing her to concentrate on developing ideas and performing in front of the camera.
Her creative process begins with thinking through a concept before shooting. She draws inspiration from everyday experiences, including things she sees and hears, with the aim of telling stories audiences can relate to.
However, consistently producing content is not always easy. Menta identified having to appear on camera even when she does not feel like it as one of the most challenging parts of the job.
She sometimes follows trending topics to keep her videos relevant, while maintaining a connection to her own experiences and personality.
Menta also says she takes brand partnerships seriously. Before promoting a product, she makes an effort to examine it and use it herself.
“I always endeavour to focus and scrutinize the product and use it before influencing for it,” she said.
When it comes to online criticism, the presenter said she has learned not to give excessive attention to negative comments, noting that many people enjoy her content.
She also believes authenticity can help content spread quickly, even in a digital environment where videos are heavily edited and trends change rapidly.
For aspiring media professionals, Menta encouraged them to embrace social media rather than depend entirely on traditional broadcasting.
“I urge them to join as soon as possible because traditional media is not enough,” she said.
Her ambitions extend beyond increasing her audience. Menta wants to have all her social media channels verified, grow her follower numbers and reach one million followers within the next few weeks.
She hopes a larger audience will give her a wider platform to express herself and strengthen her brand.
For Menta, the goal is to keep building on her television experience while using digital content to reach more people and create new opportunities.