'Success takes time—consistency and perseverance lead the way' 

Monayac Karki
Founder, Uptrendly Media

Monayac Karki is the founder of Uptrendly Media. With over a thousand influencers linked to businesses, brands and events, Uptrendly has generated over a billion impressions through social media, with more to come. Karki is collaborating with brands, businesses and the digital market by creating the Uptrendly App, a platform hosting calls for influencers to create synergy and collaboration through specialised content. 

He was also involved in the success of the Creators Mela, an initiative launched by the US Embassy collaborating with Uptrendly and spearheaded by Sujana Gurung, a venture that connected thousands of Nepali youths with established creators in Pokhara and Itahari in early 2025.

In this edition of Business 360, Karki shares his insight on digital markets, influencer markets and brand collaborations, along with tips for creators. 

Top three apps

WhatsApp, Google Calendar, ChatGPT

To AI or not to AI

Creators do not completely rely on AI. A creator we endorse has interacted with ChatGPT so many times that this tool is like a member of their extended team. A few years ago, an influencer could possibly create one or two things a day. Now with AI, 15 or 20 do not seem impossible. Creators of an introverted nature who are reluctant to show their face are releasing content. AI evolution is a must.  

Top 3 traits for content creators

Creators who build content for the audience and not for the algorithm. Who understands their true niche, their true passion, and consistently produces on that niche. Who embraces negative criticism as a part of growth.

What are brands looking for in the spirit of collaboration?

Authenticity and a storytelling approach. Input on how the specific brand can solve someone's problem.

What are a brand’s priorities when searching for their creator candidate?

The overlap between the brand’s target audience and the creator’s reach. The personality of the brand – be it aspirational, premium, accessible, approachable, confident – the DNA of the brand expressed through the creator. The price – to address this we have created the Uptrendly app where businesses can post their listings and creators can submit a bid to be considered for a brand collaboration. 

Tailored content or general content

Tailored

Do top brands pick Nepali content creators?

Nepali creators are loyal, they are honest, and they come at a good price. Uptrendly will be the bridge between creators and global brands.

Why pick Nepal as the base of a creator’s operations? 

We think modern or fancy content is premium. But imagine, in Nepal, we have the backdrop to create something the world has never seen. Our culture is super rich, our heritage is brilliant. If a Nepali brand can harness that DNA, they can kill it in this market – selling their products at the most premium price globally.

Tips for content creators

Consistency is the key. People want success overnight but it will take time. Show up every day and embrace hardship as a part of the process. 

Marketing or branding, where’s the value?

Brands take influencer collaboration as a marketing opportunity but in reality the consumer is concerned with the emotions they associate with a brand rather than a marketing campaign with data and features because the volume of content in this market is massive and people tend to forget. But if they approach the creator with a branding proposition – “Hi, creator. This is my product designed for a target group that solves their problems. I think you are facing a similar problem so use our product and share your story.” With this approach the content is likely to get more traction. 

What Nepali brand do you believe in?

Current noodles. To think they would enter the market and shake up the big players by exploring the untapped niche of extreme spice is fantastic. There is always opportunity for brands to rise. Our Uptrendly app is also a great medium for small businesses to promote their business. I also like Monster Meals, a chain of restaurants currently at seven locations.

Top 3 gifts for adults

A getaway or an adventure trip to relax or explore new places. Something healthy – yoga mat, smart health tracker, cycle. Vouchers such as spa treatments, cooking workshops, something that gives memories over materials.

Top 3 gifts for children

Mind games and toys – chess, Rubik’s cube, LEGO technic sets, or strategy board games. Outdoor game sets. Books with adventures and life lessons.

Suggestion for digital gifts

A great piece of hyper tailored content.