Click Awards 2026: Why Kenyan Online Publishers Should Think Like Founders

By Jane Odeny

At Kenya’s 2026 Click Awards and International Creator Day at the University of Nairobi, one message stood out across the panel discussions: that content creation is no longer just a hobby, but a viable business and career path.

Speakers challenged upcoming creators to stop thinking like influencers chasing virality and start thinking like founders building long-term ventures. The first step, a section of the panelists argued, is strategic clarity. Before publishing any content, creators were encouraged to ask two fundamental questions: What am I communicating? and Who am I communicating to? Understanding the audience remains the key to meaningful and sustainable digital platform growth.

Panelists warned that creativity alone is not enough if it cannot survive market shifts, platform changes, or audience fatigue. Successful creators are those who treat content as a long-term asset built through patience, planning, and consistency rather than short-term virality.

Speakers encouraged aspiring creators not to wait for expensive cameras, studio equipment, or perfect conditions. Instead, they urged them to use available tools, build gradually, and improve over time. In an industry driven by attention, authenticity often outperforms production budgets.

Beyond creativity, the session explored the legal and commercial realities of online publishing. Panelists advised creators to understand the difference between operating as personal brands, sole proprietors, or registered companies. Protecting intellectual property, owning one’s creative work, and structuring a business properly were presented as essential steps for long-term success.

Data privacy and taxation were also part of the conversation. Creators who collect audience information, whether through newsletters, subscriptions, online courses, or brand campaigns, were reminded that they may have legal responsibilities under data protection laws. Income generated through content creation, speakers emphasized, should also be treated as taxable business income.

Most importantly, creators were encouraged to develop resilience. Negative comments, criticism, and online backlash are part of the liberal digital economy, the panel noted. The challenge is learning to filter noise, accept constructive feedback, and remain focused on long-term goals.

The writer is a research assistant at Free Press Publishers.