Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Manny Moon. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Hi Manny , thanks for joining us today. We’d love to hear the backstory behind a risk you’ve taken – whether big or small, walk us through what it was like and how it ultimately turned out.

The biggest risk I’ve taken was leaving my hometown to go to college and simply figuring life out as I went.
As someone who was financially independent from a young age, I had to piece together how I’d make things work—especially moving into a predominantly white town where very few people looked like me or understood the creative lifestyle I lived. I was an artist, a cosplayer, and a content creator. In Indiana, most people around me were focused on traditional 9-to-5 careers, starting families, and settling down. But I knew deep down that path wasn’t for me. Even with a full-ride scholarship, my financial struggles didn’t disappear. I still had to work part-time while attending school full-time, all while managing my mental health. That took a toll on my grades early on. I struggled with focus in class, needed extra time on tests and homework, and found learning languages especially difficult because everyone else seemed to be picking it up so quickly. I changed my major four times, and eventually had to take an extra, unfunded year to finish my degree. I remember sitting with myself, questioning if this was really for me. But I told myself—if God placed me here, He must believe I can handle it. So I pushed forward. One of the boldest moves I made during that time was quitting my part-time job to focus on my passions—gaming, cosplaying, and content creation—while completing my final year. I didn’t have everything figured out, but I was determined. Through community funding, I raised enough money to support my last semester. I was even accepted into a film program in Los Angeles, which became one of the best, most life-changing experiences I’ve ever had. I flew myself out with just two months of rent saved and made it through the entire semester on grit and faith. I was the happiest I had ever been.
Content creation helped me cover bills while I finished school, and I finally switched to a major that aligned with my true interests: cinema production. I also began prioritizing my physical health—journaling, working out, eating better, traveling, and leaning into meaningful conversations with friends across the country.
Now, looking back, I sometimes wonder what would’ve happened if I had given up years ago. Today, at 24, I’m working full-time as a content creator, traveling across the country for paid events, and building my film portfolio—doing what I love. Taking that initial leap taught me that every risk is a doorway. I’ve stopped asking “what if something bad happens?” and started wondering “what if something good does?”
I wanted to see how good life could get—and I’m still super excited and finding out.

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

Hi! I’m Marissa Moon—also known as Manny Moon online. I’m a 24-year-old full-time content creator, gamer, and cosplayer from Hammond, Indiana. My journey into the creative world began early and naturally. Growing up in a big, nerdy family with five siblings, we didn’t have much financially—but we had each other, anime marathons, video games, and tons of imagination. From watching Inuyasha, Naruto, Teen Titans, Pokemon, to Justice League Unlimited, and ThunderCats to drawing and crafting, I found my voice through art, even before I had the words to express myself.

I hold a Bachelor’s degree in Media with a concentration in Cinema and a specialization in Black Studies. I pursued this path because I’ve always believed in the power of media to represent, empower, and reflect Black culture—and to give voice to stories that deserve more light. Whether it’s through cosplay, film, or streaming, creative expression has been my outlet to heal, connect, and inspire.

I began sharing my love for anime, pop culture, and art online around age 12—posting on Tumblr, Instagram, and Twitter before social media was even what it is now. At first, it was just about connecting with people who loved the same things I did. Over time, it became clear that this passion could be something more. After attending my first anime convention in 2015, I fell in love with cosplay and realized it was more than just a hobby—it was a way to celebrate the characters I adored and carve out space as a Black woman in a space that didn’t always feel welcoming. I wanted to prove that there’s no right age, skin tone, or body type to cosplay what you love.

By 2019, I took a leap and began turning my passions into a career. I left my 9–5 job at Apple, started streaming from my PlayStation, and took every opportunity to grow. Thanks to the support of my community, I was able to build my first PC and expand my work in content creation. Since then, I’ve partnered with brands and organizations like Hot Topic, BoxLunch, Logitech, G-Fuel, HyperX, AT&T, and Skillshot Media. I’ve also traveled as a featured guest to conventions across the country and became a 2024 BroadcastHERAcademy Fellow, a nonprofit program that empowers women in gaming.

In the midst of building my brand, I founded Eclipse Studios, a collective that blends gaming, art, content creation, and film. The goal is to uplift other creatives—especially Black and marginalized voices—by offering mentorship, collaboration, and resources that help them navigate and thrive in this industry.

What sets me apart is my deep-rooted passion, resilience, and intention behind everything I create. I’m not just in this to entertain—I’m here to open doors, create representation, and remind others that your dreams are possible, even when the odds feel stacked against you.

I’m most proud of how far I’ve come despite the challenges: navigating mental health struggles, financial hardships, being a first-gen student, and working through college while building my brand. One of my proudest moments was being accepted into a study-abroad film program in Los Angeles, where I made my first short film and worked on sets with other aspiring filmmakers—all while living off crowdfunding and community support.

Now, my goals are to continue growing my craft—whether it’s improving my sewing and cosplay builds, leveling up my directing and videography skills, or stepping into modeling and acting. I want my journey to be a beacon for others who may feel unseen or unsupported, especially those battling their own mental health.

What I want potential clients, followers, and collaborators to know is: My work is rooted in authenticity, cultural appreciation, and a genuine love for this community. I’m building something bigger than myself—something that speaks to every nerdy kid who felt out of place, every Black artist looking for their space, and every dreamer waiting for a sign that it’s okay to be exactly who you are and stand on it.

How did you build your audience on social media?

Honestly, it all started with a desire to connect. Outside of my siblings and a few school friends, I craved a space where I could share my love for my interests and find others who felt the same way. I was definitely one of those kids online way earlier than I probably should’ve been—jumping on Facebook, Tumblr, Twitter, and even MySpace at just 10 or 11 years old. Looking back, I’m grateful I was so immersed in online culture so young because it really taught me how digital interaction works and shaped how I engage with communities today.

Growing an audience wasn’t my initial goal—it still isn’t, really. What drives me is the idea that my creativity might reach and inspire someone the same way others once inspired me. My advice for anyone starting out is simple: focus on expressing what you love. When you’re creating from a genuine place, people who vibe with your energy will naturally gravitate toward you.

My journey truly took off on Tumblr and Instagram, where I built fandom pages around Naruto and Marvel that gained a lot of traction. Eventually, I created a separate account focused on gaming and cosplay—two of my biggest passions. In 2015, I started attending conventions, which really helped me learn more about the cosplay niche and also opened my eyes to how white-dominated the space was. That awareness fueled me to keep showing up and sharing my perspective.

From there, things evolved. I started posting funny gaming clips and moved into streaming on Twitch, beginning with just my PS4. I think what really helped me grow was the way I combined my nerdy interests with my silly yet humble personality. I made an effort to support others, collaborate with other creators, and stay authentic—and that energy came back to me in many ways.

Once TikTok came into the picture, it became even easier to connect with people from all kinds of niches. The more I leaned into being myself and lifting up creators– especially other Black cosplayers, the more my audience grew. I also started sharing anime relatable content, as well as tutorials and my progress—whether on crafting, vocal tips, or cosplay builds—and those educational, value-driven posts really boosted my reach.

At the end of the day, people are always online looking to learn something new or connect over shared interests. So if you’re just starting out, don’t be afraid to post what excites you. Offer value, whether that’s through education, humor, or simply being real. Give support, share your journey, and most importantly—have fun with it. Growth will come in its own time.

Is there something you think non-creatives will struggle to understand about your journey as a creative?

One of the biggest misunderstandings I’ve noticed is how people perceive the content creator lifestyle—especially when it comes to mental health, time management, and finances. From the outside, it might seem like we’re just having fun online, but behind the scenes, it’s a full-time job with very real demands.

When you’re starting out, you are your entire team. You’re the director, the editor, the writer, the talent, the marketer, the accountant—and sometimes even your own therapist. There’s no one holding your hand when you first start. You’re juggling creative vision with technical execution while learning how to market, budget, engage, and perform—all at once. And it can take years to find your rhythm, find your team, and build a platform that actually sustains you.

Many non-creatives don’t realize that this lifestyle requires the same level of commitment as any other job, if not more. The content doesn’t just magically appear—it takes time, energy, and constant creative problem-solving. We don’t clock out at 5 PM. Social media stops being a break or a hobby—it becomes your job. And with that shift, your “free time” becomes limited. Any quiet moment you get is precious—used to plan, recover, eat, breathe, or care for your mental health.

What’s more, people often underestimate the emotional toll of putting yourself out there so publicly. You’re constantly navigating feedback, algorithms, expectations, and the pressure to stay relevant—while still trying to stay true to your voice. You might go through burnout, imposter syndrome, or periods of self-doubt, and still have to show up as your best self for your audience.

Another thing that gets overlooked is how unpredictable the finances can be. Especially in the early stages, you might be investing more than you’re making. You’re buying equipment, traveling, paying for software or costumes, and spending countless unpaid hours creating. It’s a slow grind, and success doesn’t happen overnight ( well– maybe not for me but, maybe it can for you…)

So if you’re not a creative, here’s something to consider: just because something looks effortless online doesn’t mean it is. It’s a lifestyle built on passion, resilience, and an unwavering belief in your vision—even when no one else sees it yet. If you’re watching someone chase their creative dreams, try to offer support instead of judgment. That encouragement might be the one thing that keeps them going.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://beacons.ai/moonkiller17
• Instagram: https://instagram.com/moonkiller17
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/moonkiller17
• Linkedin: http://www.linkedin.com/in/marissa-moon-343b401a2
• Twitter: https://twitter.com/moonkiller17
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC5d80V6PVrcnM-GE2h2_ynA
• Other: Tiktok: https://tiktok.com/@moonkiller17

Image Credits

Main Cover Photo: photographer: Shinobichenault
Chicago c2e2 rogue photo photographer: davidsabat
Joker photographer: outdoornerdaizen