Getting Up Close with Kiara: Unfiltered and Unscripted

The Southern Live recently had the privilege of catching up with Kiara, a rapidly ascending TikTok sensation. In this exclusive interview, Kiara opens up about her remarkable journey, her perspectives on fame, her personal life, and her experiences as a brand ambassador. Join us as we delve into the captivating world of Kiara!

Can you tell me a bit about yourself, who is Kiara?

Kiara Tiktok.…..Well, my name is Kiara Fungai Gava and I was born on 06/06/1997. I am Shona from Zimbabwe. Not married yet, and no kids I am the second-born child, a born-again Christian and I’m passionate about business. I never knew a simple question could be so hard to answer.

Outside of TikTok, what else do you do?

I own a few small businesses, but I’d rather not mention them by name. Trust me; there are wicked people out there. I decided to have something small for myself because I can’t work. I have ear problems, which motivated me to start a business and take care of myself.

I’ve been dealing with ear problems for six years now. It’s been a challenge for me. My parents divorced when I was one year old, and I didn’t grow up with them on good terms. After school, I had to learn to work for myself and take care of myself at a very young age. I can hear with both ears, but they are too sensitive. I can’t handle loud noises. Everything I need to hear must be at a very low volume, or I won’t hear it.

How did you get started on TikTok?

I started TikTok in June 2022, just a few days before my birthday. I had always watched other people on TikTok but never had the courage to create my own account because I wasn’t much of a social media person. I didn’t have a Facebook or Instagram account.

 I used to have Facebook as a teenager, but I stopped using it when I was in grade 10. However, last year, I was going through depression, and I started TikTok to keep myself busy since I couldn’t work due to my ear problems. Another reason was that I wanted to start a bridal shop in Zimbabwe, but I realized I needed to be on social media to market my business. I didn’t expect to have so many followers.

How has your life changed since you’ve gained a large following on TikTok?

There are many opportunities that have come my way because of TikTok. I don’t have to pay for certain things anymore, unless I really want to. I’m a brand ambassador for a few salons, so I get services like nails, makeup, and massages for free. TikTok has reduced my stress, and I’m not as depressed as I used to be. I can go on TikTok and start laughing, which helps a lot.

You mentioned earlier about your family struggles. Can you describe any conversations or discussions you’ve had with your family about your TikTok content?

My mom is my biggest fan, and my whole family supports me. They are happy for me when I’m making content. They help sometimes, especially when I’m shooting content outside the house. TikTok made me realize the fun side of me that I never thought I had. Sometimes when I’m not feeling okay, I go through my videos and start laughing. I believe that God saw how depressed I was and made me start TikTok, and I actually started laughing from the videos I make.

Since the TikTok fame, how has your dating life been? Has it become easier or harder?

 I never include my relationship on social media. When I talk or meet up with my boyfriend, TikTok life remains outside. I always make sure he doesn’t feel like I’m more superior to him. So, my relationship hasn’t changed or had any challenges because of TikTok. I’m very open with my partner, and I don’t usually collaborate with guys on TikTok because I don’t want the other person to feel uncomfortable. If I were to collaborate, I’d ask him for permission. So, I know my role in a relationship, and fame stays far from my relationship.

Can you share one of the most memorable reactions or comments you have received from a celebrity about your skits and videos?

Many celebrities have commented, and I feel so happy. Micyunging, Julian King, Boishona, Mr. Moreni, Zeb Tsikira, and many more have appreciated my videos.

But the best experience was with Victor Ivyic. He liked my videos, followed me, and I was extremely excited. I reposted his likes on my videos, and he said he loves my videos. His close friends are also huge fans. Since then, he has been a good friend, motivating and guiding me.

How do you handle negativity on social media?

I used to respond to bad comments, but Victor told me to ignore negativity on social media if I want to grow. It can be tough because I’m a soft person and I want to respond sometimes. So, nowadays, I just ignore negative comments, although it can be hurtful because people can be mean. Not everyone is happy, and most of those who leave negative comments have fewer than 500 followers.

Can you share a personal experience of a certain heartbreak that almost left you in ICU?

There was a time I thought I was in love with someone who I thought was the one, but it turned out I was the side chick. He was in a long-distance relationship with someone, and I was the side chic. He had saved her number as “Mom” in his phone, so I didn’t suspect anything.

However, I started suspecting and I texted her, only to find out she was also his girlfriend. We decided to meet at his place, and it turned into quite a drama. When he arrived and saw both of us sitting on the couch, he was shocked and said, “What is going on here, Kiara?”  hahaha!!

It was a complicated situation because his grandfather had just died that same day. We ended up comforting him and even attended the funeral. It was a strange and emotional experience. Afterward, I couldn’t handle the fact that he had two women, so I walked away, lost weight, and my mom was worried about my health. I eventually had to move to Cape Town because I couldn’t handle the situation.

Who are your top 5 content creators?

Victor Ivyic,Astra, Moses and Jennifer Frank. I find their content amazing.

 What are you currently listening to?

I listen to Gospel a lot. My favourite singers are Kim Walker and Danny Gokey. From Zimbabwe, I enjoy Julian King, Micyunging, and Holy Ten. Holy Ten is actually my number one, and my “Gangster Girlfriend” character on TikTok matches his voice.

If you could offer one piece of advice to those who look up to you, what would it be?

Never trust anyone, trust God only. People can betray you, so you don’t want to trust a human being.