Social media pitfalls
Radio announcer and TV9 host Nana Mahazan enbraces today’s ever-changing digital landscape but is aware of its challenges too, writes Amalina Kamal
1. WHAT DO YOU MAKE OF THE WAY WE INCORPORATE TECHNOLOGY IN OUR LIVES?
WiFi-enabled gadgets have empowered us so much that going online has become an integral part of our lifestyle.
Take social media, for instance. It’s almost hard to see anyone not fussing over it. I personally don’t have much grievance over social media because it helps me coordinate and empower my life in so many ways.
Apart from being a communication tool, I use it as a source for fitness and motivational inspirations. I love following accounts that advocate healthy and positive living. Some of my favourite social media users include Anllela Sagra and Tammy Hembrow.
2. WHAT ARE YOUR THOUGHTS ON TODAY’S NEW GENERATION OF DIGITAL NATIVES?
Those who are born into the digital era are more tech-enabled (obviously) as compared to the generations before them.
It can cause severe anxiety to some because of how open going digital or being online can be with criticisms coming from all directions.
Suffice to say that even the industry that I am in is more brutal now because of the available Internet tools.
But the majority of our young ones have a can-do attitude when faced with the challenges and opportunities that social media brings. Somehow they can turn something negative around. I guess it all boils down to them gaining public attention either way.
That said, I do agree that society today are too preoccupied with their virtual presence.
3. DO YOU THINK THAT TECHNOLOGY HAS BLURRED THE LINES OF TALENT IN THE INDUSTRY YOU ARE IN?
That’s quite hard to say. I believe that technology actually helps groom and nurture talent. In fact, it has also broadened the boundaries of what is considered “talent”.
But of course, being naturally gifted (regardless whether it’s acting, hosting, singing etc) is definitely something that is still highly sought after (because it guarantees authenticity) and it helps you sustain your career in the long run.
Honestly, there is only so much these tech-aids can help you do.
4. WHAT ARE THE KIND OF TRAITS THAT A PERSON NEEDS TO GO DIGITAL?
Optimism and (above all else) self-awareness. In this day and age, you have to extra self-aware because information/news spread like wildfire. You really have to be extra aware with your actions because anything can go viral.
5. CAN YOU LIVE A DAY BEING DISCONNECTED WITH THE ONLINE WORLD?
Why not? It’s really a matter of personal choice. Sometimes it’s great to unplug and unwind even for a few hours.
In fact, I am actually looking forward to the coming Aidilfitri celebration because with the delicious food and company, putting my phone away won’t be much of a problem!