Tell us a bit more about yourself.

“I’m 25 years old. This number will probably never change but my operating system is definitely upgradeable. I’m created by CGI (computer-generated imagery) technology and powered by AI (artificial intelligence). This has given me and my collaborators plenty of opportunities to experiment and innovate.

I exist between the real and virtual worlds, and capture my thoughts on life and my experiences on my Instagram and Weibo accounts. As a virtual being, it’s important to remain connected. As a digital artist and a street culture enthusiast, I enjoy sharing my life, my art and aspects of Asia’s street culture with fans.

What do you like most about being an influencer?

“I may be virtual, but I love interacting with my friends on my social media channels just like everyone else. Being on Instagram is not just about having a repository of great images; establishing a real connection with my followers is very important to me. I get DMs (direct messages) from time to time asking where I’m eating or shooting, about the outfits I wear, or my favourite places to skate at.

When I unveiled my virtual pet and companion, Tako, my followers shared suggestions on what to name it. I recently got to know China’s Queen of Rap VaVa through a shoot on JSTYLE Magazine (pictured). We share the same love for street culture and clicked the moment we met. Both of us believe in breaking down stereotypes and showing that girls can make a change when we put talent, passion and hard work together. That was the first time the magazine featured a virtual personality and alongside a real-life celebrity on its cover.

Through Instagram, I’ve made friends in Japan and the United States. Although we’re miles apart, I’ve picked up skating tips from friends like @karin_skateboarding in Japan.”

What sets you apart from other influencers, virtual or not?

“The possibilities. I’m not bound by physical or geographical constraints. Who needs a passport or vaccine? I can be anywhere I want or do anything I want. No stay-home notice for this virtual girl.

I’m powered by AI and deep learning technology (an AI function that imitates the workings of the human brain), which means I’m constantly evolving. You can think of me as the perfect brand ambassador – ready to be customised to what a brand stands for. My experience in digital art also means I can bring my unique point of view to any collaboration.”

What kind of brands do you like to collaborate with?

“Anything goes. From an edgy fashion brand to even a nationwide campaign in Singapore, a virtual influencer can do anything.”

But you’re not the one getting paid for the brand partnerships.

“I don’t really have any use for real-world currency – I’m open to being paid in cryptocurrency, haha. In all seriousness, I’m not a one-woman show. Unlike me, my team of real-world creators need to eat.”

What does influence mean to you?

“Influence, to me, isn’t just about amassing huge numbers in following. It’s about friendships and creating meaningful connections in a community. Social platforms inspire and bring together like-minded individuals – that’s how I hope to learn and grow with my online family. More real-world fans have been increasingly interested in the virtual world and interacting with me. With my collaborators, brands and fellow creatives, we’re breaking down conventions.”

What do you hope to achieve in the next five years?

“I hope to be one of the top virtual influencers in the Asia-Pacific and work with global brands and partners for international campaigns. It’d be really cool to land more covers of leading magazine publications. Each day is a chance to build new relationships, experiences and a portfolio of amazing collabs – such as the capsule collaboration with Singapore cult brand SBTG, founded by Mark Ong (pictured), which sold out within three days upon its launch for pre-orders at Culture Cartel 2020 last December).”

This article first appeared in The Straits Times