YouTubers often get judged for making their living posting silly videos on the Internet. Here are just four YouTubers who I feel have a positive impact on their communities through their successes.
1. Olan Rogers
Olan Rogers first spun his way onto my radar after his "Ghost in the Stalls" story video. Story videos are big on YouTube these days, but I would argue that Olan’s are some of the most entertaining. Olan is also a great source of positivity and an inspiring example of how hard work can lead to success. Olan opened his own soda parlor, where he holds fan nights and provides free floats and video game tournaments. Olan has recently been working on an eagerly-awaited cartoon, "Final Space." Olan's positivity and work ethic are a great source of inspiration.
2. Hannah Hart
Hannah Hart’s "My Drunk Kitchen" videos are undoubtedly a source of classic YouTube entertainment. But Hannah is far from just a drunk girl throwing together questionable mac and cheese dishes while under the influence -- she also makes puns. Just kidding! Hannah’s videos are full of her best advice on topics like sexuality and mental health and an overwhelming sense of positivity. In addition to inebriated cooking, Hannah has many charity projects with fans, movies and a memoir, which will be released in October.
3. Lilly Singh
Lilly Singh has said that the point of her videos is to make people happy. Her impersonations of her parents even made it onto the radar of Jimmy Fallon. After a worldwide tour and her own lipstick line, Lilly’s most recent endeavor involves Rafiki bracelets, which provide livelihood and opportunities for women in Kenya.
4. Nathan Zed
Nathan Zed rose to popularity on Vine but naturally graduated to YouTube. Nathan’s videos are refreshingly real and knowledgeable. He talks about topics ranging from the responsibilities of popular YouTubers, to the Black Lives Matter movement. Nathan manages to combine his sense of humor with his passion for important topics, (like how Ted Cruz is the Zodiac Killer). Lin-Manuel Miranda recently followed Nathan on twitter, so it's obvious that everyone needs to get it together and watch some Nathan Zed videos.
Let's face it - you're probably killing time by even reading this article. Do yourself a favor and check out some of the links mentioned above for some great YouTube videos that you won't feel (as) guilty about spending time watching!
