Alisa Nowikow

Every morning, I start my day with a cup of strong, black coffee, staring out the window of my small apartment in St. Petersburg, Russia. The city is bustling as always, with people hurrying to work, couples strolling hand in hand, and the occasional street musician adding a touch of melody to the chaos.

At 21, I find myself in a place I never imagined I would be. My work is unconventional, to say the least, and not something I can openly discuss due to the nature of our laws and the ever-watchful eye of social media censors. Let’s just say I make films, ones that I upload to the Internet, earning more than I ever thought possible. This career was born out of necessity, growing up with little money and a modest education. My parents, hardworking and humble, did their best, but they couldn't provide much. From a young age, I had to fend for myself.

The digital age has been a blessing. I’m able to create content on my terms, turning my ideas into reality with great success. This work has given me a sense of independence and self-worth that I never had before. But it's a double-edged sword; I know I can't do this forever. My body won’t always look this young, and new, younger competitors will emerge. For now, I’m enjoying the lifestyle I’ve become accustomed to, even though it comes with its own set of challenges.

Maintaining this standard of living means constant production, which can be exhausting. The work is demanding, and sometimes I receive disturbing messages from strangers. My parents eventually found out about my job. That conversation was one of the hardest of my life. They were angry, disappointed, and it took time for them to come to terms with it. But when they saw how my success translated into tangible improvements in their lives, their attitudes softened.

Today, after my coffee, I’ll spend hours filming and editing. It’s a routine I’ve grown used to, one that keeps me grounded in this unpredictable world.