Meet Zi Xuen, a popular content creator on Instagram and TikTok, known for his engaging and heartwarming videos featuring his mother, who is also a fellow content creator. Together, they create fun, relatable, and entertaining content that resonates with audiences of all ages.
Whether it’s lighthearted skits, family moments, or lifestyle vlogs, their dynamic chemistry and genuine connection have captivated a loyal following. With a mix of humour, authenticity, and creativity, Zi Xuen continues to grow his presence on social media, proving that content creation can be a family affair filled with joy and inspiration.
What inspired you to start creating content on Instagram, and how did your mom become a part of it?
I started creating content on TikTok first. I started back in 2020 because I had always wanted to be famous somehow. I thought TikTok is the fastest way to become famous. So, I started doing lip-sync videos. You know, where audio plays in the background, and you sync your lips to it.
A lot of people liked my videos—mainly because of my face—and I grew very fast. I reached 100,000 followers on TikTok. At that time, I noticed that a lot of influencers were getting invited to events and receiving brand deals, but I wasn’t getting those opportunities, even with 100,000 followers on TikTok. Then I realised that a lot of companies preferred Instagram.
So, I started posting more videos on Instagram and researching trends. I officially started my Instagram in August 2023, posting videos every day to get into the algorithm. By January 2024, I had already hit 100,000 followers—it was really fast. My mom became a part of my content later on.
I saw a TikTok video of a girl pranking her mom, and I thought, “My mom’s reaction would be even funnier.” So, I filmed a prank video, recorded and edited it, and everyone loved it. After that, I started making more videos with my mom, and that’s how she became a part of it.
How would you describe your content style, and what do you think makes it resonate with your audience?
I think my content style is authentic and raw. A lot of influencers have a very polished image, and while I also want that to some extent, I feel like my personality is honest and cosy at the same time.
My mom and I don’t script our videos much. Sometimes, I’ll ask my mom to exaggerate a little, and instead, she’ll just end up scolding me more—but that’s all natural! We have a concept, but nothing is overly scripted. I think our audience likes how genuine and real we are.
What are some challenges working with your mom, who is also a fellow content creator?
One big challenge is that content creation isn’t a typical 9-to-5 job—there’s no fixed schedule. You have to organise your own time, and I’m not very organised. I’m more of a “last-minute person”—if I feel like filming, I’ll do it right away.
If I don’t feel like filming, I won’t. But my mom likes structure. So sometimes, when I finally want to shoot, my mom will say, “I don’t want to shoot today.” That makes it difficult to coordinate. I’m spontaneous. My mom is structured. That’s the challenge.
Can you share a memorable or unexpected moment from filming with your mom?
One memorable moment was when I ran out of ideas for a sponsorship video. I wanted to make it feel natural, but I couldn’t think of anything. Then, my mom started suggesting ideas, and they were actually really good!
I realised she’s quite creative. Another time, I was filming a Malay-language video in Japan, and my mom suddenly spoke fluently in Malay. I was like, “Wait, I didn’t know you were that fluent in Malay!” That was definitely unexpected.
A big misconception is that content creation is easy. People don’t realise how much time and effort it takes. For example, one prank video took me three hours to edit, but it was only a one-minute video.
How do you come up with fresh content ideas, and what goes into the planning and execution of your videos?
Coming up with content ideas is quite easy for me because I scroll through TikTok and Instagram all the time. I stay up to date on trends, and when I see something popular, I put my own spin on it—adding my personal style or involving my mom.
Sometimes, I get ideas at night when I overthink before sleeping, so I write them in my Notes app and film them later. In terms of execution, it’s very spontaneous. If I feel like filming today, I’ll do it. If I think I look good, I’ll start shooting. For video editing, I have a personal assistant who helps me, but I’m still involved in the process.
What are some misconceptions people have about content creation?
A big misconception is that content creation is easy. People don’t realise how much time and effort it takes. For example, one prank video took me three hours to edit, but it was only a one-minute video.
People assume it’s effortless, but there’s a lot of work behind the scenes. Also, I’m a student, so I have to balance school and content creation. I often edit videos at night, but I still have university in the morning—it’s a struggle.
What advice do you have for aspiring content creators who want to grow their audience on social media?
Just post without overthinking. Post what you like. A lot of people start, go viral once, and then stop posting. That’s a mistake. You need to keep posting consistently, figure out what your audience likes, and stay true to yourself. Do what you love, and don’t stop.
Where do you see yourself in the next five years?
I’m actually releasing music this year because I want to become a singer. My dream is to be an idol. But if that doesn’t work out, I might start a talent agency. After making my mom famous, I feel like I have a knack for helping people grow their brands.
If that also doesn’t work out, I’ll get a 9-to-5 job since I’m studying finance technology in university. But my ultimate goal? I want to be a celebrity. Like, a real idol-type celebrity.
Connect with Zhi Xuen: Instagram and TikTok.
