Social media celebrities are not public figures!

Technology and the use of social media have become a vital part of everyday life, especially for the younger generation. It is continually evolving and nowadays, everything is either tweeted, or posted to Instagram or Facebook. On social media, perception is everything, hence, some users become popular based on what they post and share with the world, mainly about their private lives. Sadly, these users, regardless of their age, may have a great influence on many of us. Why is it acceptable to portray some “popular” users as praiseworthy public figures? Why are they given the opportunity to represent the whole?

Some of these famous users might not even be the real people that they claim to be. With that in mind, they should not be claimed or treated as public figures just because they are popular on social media. These users publish only what they want the world to see, in order to attract attention and gain popularity. This trend is not only affecting us socially, but also culturally.

Our Emirati youth are being manipulated by what is presented to them on various social media channels. Some portray negative aspects that reflect badly on our society, and some present false behaviour just to attract attention. In addition, some of these users are taking advantage of their popularity and making it seem as if it is their permanent job. The truth is that social media boosts a false sense of self esteem through the number of likes, fans, and comments and for these “popular” users. Sadly, some of these users are invited to various social events just because they are “popular” and regardless of the reason for the event. As a result, people that are worthy of representing these events are being neglected.

It is beyond disappointing to note that society is accepting this trend. Is this trend going to fade away or is it the beginning of a new socio-technological era? Does appearance on social media shape the actions and behaviour of our Emirati youth?

- The reader is an Emirati student based in London, UK.