Why the Influencers trend is catching on in SA marketing and the names you should get to know.
Instagram is where we go to find all that’s fresh, trendy and creative.
Growing rapidly year on year, now more than ever, Instagram is one of South Africa’s MAJOR relevant social media platforms.
A rise in social media users in South Africa
Research firm World Wide Worx reported that Instagram users in South Africa increased 32% between 2016 and 2017 with another 8.5% growth during 2017 and 2018.
This is a trend that is in line with smartphone penetration in the country.
Arthur Goldstuck, the managing director of World Wide Worx, said: “Back in 2010, we had about five million smartphones in use in this country. Now there are more than 30 million smartphones in use and most people when they go onto the internet for the first time through a smart phone, it’s usually via Facebook or Instagram or one of the other social networks.”
Brands are keen to tap into that opportunity and that’s why Influencers marketing is MORE than just a buzzword right now.
The Smartguys to follow
Instagram’s latest statistic says there are more than 3.8 million people using the social media platform in South Africa. That’s a lot.
Among those nearly 4 million accounts are loads of very cool male influencers making their mark. But with so many pages on offer, who are the LOCAL GUYS you should be following on Instagram right now? WHO are the movers, shakers and local taste makers?
Here are 5 Bloem Smartguys who’s Instagram pages are killing it right now
Tony Peng
The artistic virtuoso behind creative lifestyle and concept design company ENVIE, documents his superbly stylish life. Expect delectable dining, splendidly suave outfits and lots of travelling.
Christoff Steyn
The very talented Architectural Retail and Interior Designer of Roodt Architects. A bona fide man of style. He is the mastermind and architectural designer behind the NEW OFS Smart Repair HQ. Expect a master class in design, composition and art.
FJ Potgieter
The exceptional photographer and creative entrepreneur behind successful wedding and lifestyle photography brand, Eye Poetry Photography. Expect absolutely beautiful photography, moody landscapes and a family and friend pic or two.
Evert Kleynhans
The outstanding new media designer behind television and video production company Rooistoel documents his love of coffee, family and super interesting camera shots. Expect loads of adventure and lots of tech.
Casper Bosman
The Bloem-based fashion designer ‘grams his life designing impeccable clothing for the world’s most beautiful women and looking immaculately groomed at glittering soirées. With over 21 K followers, he is one of the most stylish men on Instagram.
Other South African influencers definitely worth a follow
Francois van Coke
The infamous front man needs no introduction. He’s totally rock n roll and as bad ass as they get. Expect skinny jeans, very cool tattoos, Van Coke gear and a lot of supremely talented musos.
Tiaan Nagel
The very stylish editor of House and Leisure sure knows a good composition when he sees it. Expect beautifully curated spaces, sublime architecture and wonderfully plated food.
Schalk Bezuidenhout
The wacky-jersey-wearing comedian is simply hilarious. One of the funniest men on Instagram right now expect big hair, a zany mustache and A LOT of very bright wardrobe pieces.
Tilone
The local Durban designer’s Insta account features his eponymous T-shirt line inspired by Fashion Icons such as Karl Lagerfeld, Grace Coddington, Anna Wintour and Coco Chanel. Expect one of the chicest Instagram pages yet.
The Lawry
Talk about #wanderlust on steroids! The Cape Town based Travel & Adventure Blogger’s Instagram is jam packed with the most exquisite travel photography. Expect beautiful beaches, turquoise skies and pics featuring his blonde babe girlfriend @campsbaygirl.
