From Million-View Mistake to Mirror Wisdom: How One College Student Accidentally Built a TikTok Empire During Quarantine
When Aliza Shan downloaded TikTok in January 2020, she had no idea that one video would change everything. The Toronto-born content creator was just looking for entertainment during those early pandemic days when schools and workplaces shut down. But her very first TikTok exploded with over a million views, and suddenly she found herself with hundreds of thousands of followers hanging on her every word.
**What sets Aliza apart isn't flashy production or elaborate setups—it's her refreshingly authentic approach to advice-giving.** Most of her content features her speaking directly to the camera, often filmed in a mirror, creating an intimate conversation feel that resonates with her audience of over 420,000 followers. Her videos tackle everything from relationship advice to beauty tips, but it's her relatable takes on everyday situations that really hit home. One of her most popular videos shows her reaction to getting a text from a crush—you know, that uncontrollable smile that takes over your whole face—and it perfectly captures those universal moments we all experience.
Born on March 22, 2001, Aliza represents a generation that learned to navigate both traditional education and digital entrepreneurship simultaneously. She's currently studying psychology at Ryerson University while juggling a part-time job and her growing social media presence. It's a balancing act that many young creators struggle with, but Aliza seems to have found her rhythm. She makes school her top priority while still carving out time throughout the week to create content and engage with her community.
**Her content style feels more like chatting with a friend than consuming polished media.** Whether she's sharing a new haircut she invented (which racked up over 200,000 views) or offering advice on navigating social situations, there's an authenticity that cuts through the noise of typical influencer content. She doesn't rely on trending sounds or elaborate editing—instead, she builds connection through genuine conversation and practical wisdom that her mostly young adult audience can actually use.
What started as pandemic boredom has evolved into something much more significant. Aliza didn't set out to become an influencer, but brands quickly took notice as her follower count climbed. The transition from casual creator to sponsored content happened organically, turning her creative outlet into a legitimate side business. She's proof that sometimes the most successful content comes from simply being yourself and sharing what you genuinely care about. In a platform often criticized for superficiality, creators like Aliza remind us that authentic connection still wins—even in a 60-second video filmed in your bedroom mirror.