We were lucky to catch up with Amanda Dia recently and have shared our conversation below.

Amanda, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today Can you tell us about a time that your work has been misunderstood? Why do you think it happened and did any interesting insights emerge from the experience?

When I first started taking social media seriously, I was lucky to have friends who understood my journey and shared my passion. Together, we’d get dressed in unique, unconventional outfits, step outside, and take photos that set us apart from the norm. We knew we’d get judgmental looks—sometimes even outright questions like, “What’s your costume?” It was a lot to handle at times.

Even online, some of my own friends wouldn’t support me. Rather than encouraging my vision, they’d think, “What is she wearing?” instead of, “Let me support her, even if I don’t fully get it.” As a creator, you face a lot of uncomfortable situations, but that’s part of the process. Those challenges shape you. You learn not to let others’ opinions or comments distract you from who you want to become, even if they don’t understand it.

Ultimately, it’s often complete strangers who see your vision, who support and lift you up, and that’s one of the beautiful things about being a creator—knowing that despite the misunderstandings, there are people who connect with you and value what you bring to the world.

Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.

Hi! My name is Amanda Diallo, and I’m a 22-year-old fashion and lifestyle content creator.

I got into fashion about two years ago and started gaining traction last year. I’m known for my unique style, often blending kawaii, alt, Aliyah-core, and more to create looks that stand out. I really started trending when I began taking joint photos with one of my best friends, Aliyah’s Interlude. We’d wear coordinated, eye-catching outfits, and our looks really took off. Those photos sparked something big, and my following began to grow quickly as I kept posting consistently.

One of my viral moments came from a TikTok I made about my experience growing up in a toxic household and surviving sexual abuse. It resonated with so many people, and I received countless DMs from others who shared similar experiences. Other posts, like the “water challenge” I did on my mom, also went viral on Twitter, adding to my reach.

Most of my content now revolves around fashion and lifestyle, from sharing viral outfit photos to GRWMs on Instagram. I’ve had the chance to work with brands I grew up loving, like Ed Hardy, Shop Kolly, Dolls Kill, Shein, and Yitty. Getting to collaborate with brands I admired long before going viral—and even attending events like Coachella—has truly been a blessing.

What do you think is the goal or mission that drives your creative journey?

Yes, I want to inspire others to embrace their individuality and self-expression, especially those who feel misunderstood or judged for being different. I know what it’s like to feel out of place, and through my content, I want to create a sense of belonging and confidence for others.

I’m driven by the idea of building a community where people feel free to be themselves, to be bold with their style, and to speak openly about their experiences, even the hard ones. My ultimate goal is to use my platform not just to share fashion and lifestyle moments, but to make a lasting impact by helping others feel seen, heard, and empowered.

For me, it’s about making my journey a source of encouragement for others, showing that no matter where you start, you can build a path that’s all your own.

Let’s talk about resilience next – do you have a story you can share with us?

Growing up in an abusive home and constantly moving around, I had a deep need to feel seen and heard. As a kid, I found myself drawn to the idea of fame and storytelling—TV shows and movies became my escape. I was fascinated by the idea of acting and music, dreaming about connecting with others in a way that would make people feel something real. I remember telling my dad one day that I wanted to be an actress, but he just brushed it off. That moment stuck with me, yet it didn’t stop me from wanting to follow that dream.

I was always on social media, doing something—trying to make my mark. Even when my posts didn’t go viral and might’ve come off as cringy, I didn’t mind because just the idea of being seen by others was enough for me. Growing up without much love around me, I wanted to feel valued, to connect with others who might’ve been through similar or even worse experiences.

Fashion became my way of stepping out of my comfort zone. I didn’t dress in ways that would appeal to everyone, and I knew that. But as much as I longed for love and approval, I learned that not everything I do needs to be accepted by everyone. Embracing that was freeing, and it allowed me to truly be myself. Now, I create with resilience, wanting to show others that even if the world around you doesn’t understand or support you, you can build a path where your voice matters and where you can find your own way to feel seen, heard, and valued.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/yourfavthickums/?hl=en
• Twitter: https://twitter.com/yourfavthickums
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@Yourfavthickums