Sullivan Anderson 
Kai Cenat, the most subscribed streamer in the world, has broken his own record as the most subscribed to streamer in Twitch history. “I know my role in life,” Cenat began his trademark motivational speech at the end of his sub-a-thon during the month of November. “You have to make sacrifices, and you have to continue putting yourself in the position to achieve and be great. How do you be great? Have discipline and put time into it. Think different. Be different. Live different,” he stated. The media sensation had been live for 30 days straight.
Cenat, known for his energetic, ambitious personality, started his career seven years ago, posting on Twitch, YouTube, and other streaming platforms. Here are some things we can learn from his perseverance.
- Don’t let humble beginnings dim your light.
Cenat and his family lived in a shelter at one point in Georgia during his childhood. “I always think to [those moments] and realize where I came from,” Cenat explained in an interview with Complex. “I don’t take anything for granted.” He could have let his experiences discourage him, but it only motivated him to go harder for his family. Don’t let anything stop you!
- Let your haters be your motivators.
When Cenat was in high school, his principal took a look at his videos and called them trash. The streamer says he never forgot that. “You have to be careful with what you say,” he explained when discussing the early doubters in his career. Still, he made his way through the industry and believed in himself.
- Keep trying until you find what works.
Cenat described himself as an actor, comedian, and various other titles in his first YouTube video. He also did skits at one point. His skits were what first got him traction. With a laugh, he told Complex, “My first skits were cringy. At the time, it was one of the best ideas I ever had… It’s all a part of the process. You have to go through it.”
- Short term sacrifice will earn long term reward.
When Cenat was in college, he stayed up late and frequently pulled all-nighters to keep his content on a consistent schedule. The balance of going to classes, having a social life, and creating content was a struggle for Cenat, but he knew his hard work would pay off. Things might look shaky in the moment, but staying focused and disciplined certainly pays off.
- Stay true to yourself!
Cenat made his unique qualities his superpower. He would get in trouble in school for being the “class clown” and getting into mischief. Now, his energy is what reels subscribers and viewers in.
We are so proud of you, Kai Cenat! You are truly an inspiration for the younger generation, and we can’t wait to see what more you do with your platform.
By Sullivan Anderson, North Carolina A&T State University Alumna
Instagram: @SullivanGrace_
TikTok: @sullivangrace
True Star Media’s content is made possible thanks to donors like you. By donating at truestarmedia.org/donate you are helping to empower young creators and transform lives.
