Instagram Influencer Spotlight On: vanessa workman @theislanddrum

1) Tell us a little about yourself. What are you doing now and where do you come from?

I’m a semi-retired Respiratory Therapist, American ex-pat, travel & lifestyle blogger and freelance writer. I currently live on an island in Malaysia.

2) What are your topics of interest? What do you post on Instagram the most?

I have interests in culture and food, but it’s also part of my expat life, so it becomes a bit of my overseas lifestyle. Nature and outdoor activities also interest me.

3) How did your Instagram name come about?

The Island Drum is my website/blog name, which originally started as ‘weekly’ events on the island I base myself from. On Fridays (long ago) I would hear a drum beating and then some sort of announcements in Bahasa Malayu. I realized the drum was to get the community’s attention so they would know an announcement was coming from the village chief or ‘powers that be’.

4) What are some apps you use to edit your photos? Share with us your photo-editing routine!

I use Lightroom and Photoshop.

5) Any Instagrammers whom you really like? Which Instagrammer inspires you the most?

No one comes to mind at the moment, but I do appreciate unique content and unique approaches. I follow a lot of accounts from all walks of life, but the ones who are not constantly selling something influence me the most. Oh wait! Defpoints78 is a Malaysia based Lego account. They set up the cutest shots and always spot on with their message.

6) What’s your favorite part about being an influencer?

I’ve never really called myself an influencer, but it is fun when I can see followers get excited about something I posted. Or when they themselves tell me about a particular plant or food or add some history to a location shot I post.

7) What’s your favorite part about StarNgage? Any exciting campaigns that you have joined through StarNgage before?

I just joined. I like the fact that you are in my region as well as offer global opportunities. Although I am based in Malaysia, most of my Instagram followers are from the USA and followed by Malaysia, etc.. My blog readership is Malaysia, Singapore, USA, etc..

8) What are some of your top tips to brands for running campaigns? How do you maintain authenticity?

Be relatable to everyone, not just the ‘beautiful’ people.

9) What would your advice be on the importance of quality and original content?

It’s like going to a job dressed like a slob. If you are representing a business or a brand put your best foot forward and go the extra mile.

10) What do you like best about partnering with brands?

Learning more about marketing.

Topics:

• Art
• Fashion
• Food & Drink
• Gardening
• Health & Fitness
• Nature & Outdoors
• Technology
• Travel

Country:

Malaysia