From tech to trends: SZ fuels my content journey

For Indonesian content creator Aileen Sierends Davina, nothing beats the thrill of watching her Instagram post about YouTube livestreamer IShowSpeed’s recent visit to Shenzhen, which has surpassed 380,000 views.

Aileen Sierends Davina

Currently a freshman at The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shenzhen (CUHK-Shenzhen), Aileen recently discussed her viral video with Shenzhen Daily. “If I didn’t visit Shenzhen, I might not have gained so many followers,” she said, adding that the city has offered her countless opportunities to explore new experiences and share them with her online audience.

Aileen described her encounter with IShowSpeed — better know as Speed — in Shenzhen earlier this month as a once-in-a-lifetime experience and one of the craziest things she has ever done. Chasing after Speed, Aileen managed to stand out from the crowd and get close to the internet sensation during his visit to Shenzhen Talent Park in Nanshan District to experience drone food delivery.

When asked how she secured a front-row spot near Speed, Aileen explained that she had visited the drone delivery location with friends two months prior, so she knew exactly where to go. “Everyone else was following Speed as he walked toward the spot, but I dashed straight to the drone site to wait for him. When I arrived, there were only about five people there. I believe life gives you what you put into it,” said Aileen.

With Chinese ancestry, Aileen had decided to study in China during high school. After researching universities across China, she chose CUHK-Shenzhen for its academic excellence and international environment.

“Shenzhen is a big city with fascinating technologies, like food delivery drones and innovations showcased at Huaqiangbei,” said Aileen. Beyond cutting-edge tech, Shenzhen also offers diverse entertainment, from shopping malls to concerts by international acts like Imagine Dragons.

Aileen noted that some students in her country learned about CUHK-Shenzhen through her posts and decided to visit the campus during open-day events.

She stated that coming to Shenzhen was one of the best decisions she has ever made — a turning point in her journey as a content creator. Aileen began creating content in high school for fun, mostly sharing travel experiences and makeup brands. However, with millions of Indonesians doing the same, she sought a unique angle.

When planning to study in China, she decided to focus on content about life in Shenzhen and China, offering insights for Indonesians interested in visiting or studying there. Now, nearly all of Aileen’s posts revolve around China — her city explorations, campus life, and travel adventures — helping her audience see the real China.

“Many people in my country knew China was changing rapidly, but they only believed it after seeing my posts. I also share helpful services for international students like me. My content reassures those interested in visiting or living in China,” Aileen shared.

This creative habit has also helped Aileen discover her true passion. “I feel like I can help people — my university, friends, and brands. Knowing I’m needed and that my followers await my content is motivating. Content creation isn’t just part of my life anymore — it’s my career. I want to pursue being an influencer,” she said.

Sometimes, Aileen feels burned out after editing posts herself, but discovering new ideas or useful information reignites her energy.

From her perspective, Shenzhen provides endless opportunities to chase her dreams. “I have gotten so many opportunities — through campus, Shenzhen Daily, and joining the Z10 Club initiated by EyeShenzhen. These experiences have allowed me to speak publicly, gain new experiences, and make friends from different countries. I love Shenzhen. It feels like home,” said Aileen.