Digital Influencers and Their Role in Shaping Public Discourse

As digital media on mobile devices is the primary platform of communication with the outside world, the rise of digital influencers continues to grow. Community leaders and celebrities have been replaced by individuals who gain popularity on social media. The popularity of influencers on YouTube highlights how young people who create content on digital platforms have the ability to garner international attention. Digital influencers have become the role models of millennials. With their massive fan base, what role do they have in shaping public discourse? This session looks at the responsibilities of these digital influencers towards their audiences and the ways they could promote social good and inspire change.