I still can’t believe it. It feels like a dream – a dream come true!
Recently, I got invited to the first-ever WAVES Summit, a big event organized by the Government of India and YouTube for content creators like us. Out of 9000+ applicants, only 15 creators were selected as finalists. And guess what? I am one of them! I was selected under the YouTube WAVES Explorer Challenge – for travel creators. This is my first award, and I am feeling so proud and thankful.
🗓 Day 1 – Starstruck Moments
The event started with a bang. But on the first day, we were not allowed to carry our phones, so I couldn’t take pictures. But something crazy happened…
In the washroom, I met Sara Ali Khan! 😱 She asked me, “Where is Radhika?” And I said, “Who is Radhika?” Later I realized, she was talking about Radhika Merchant! Can you imagine? I was literally standing next to Sara Ali Khan and missed a photo!
Later that day, we also saw Aamir Khan and Vicky Kaushal. And the biggest surprise – our PM Narendra Modi came to the event! We were sitting on the second row, so close to him. It was such a proud and emotional moment.
🗓 Day 2 – My First Award
This was the most special day for me. We attended the YouTube Creator Collective, met so many inspiring YouTubers, and then went to Farhan Akhtar’s masterclass.
And the best part? I received an award! 🎉 Out of thousands of creators, only 15 were chosen, and I was one of them. This is my first award ever, and I felt like crying – tears of joy! Later, we had lunch, attended a panel by Aamir Khan, and I even gave an interview and a speech for YouTube. Everything felt so magical.
🗓 Day 3 – Learning and Fun
We joined a panel by Aamir Khan Productions on filmmaking, and attended a session by Amazon Influencer Marketing. It was full of useful information. We also played some games and won cool prizes.
🗓 Day 4 – Goodbyes and Gifts
On the last day, there were no big sessions, but we got lots of merchandise from YouTube, Amazon Music, RT, and more. You can check out all the goodies in the pictures. I felt like a kid on Diwali! 🎁
✈️ A Fully Sponsored Trip!
The entire trip was sponsored by the Government of India – flight, food, transport, and stay in a 5-star hotel. Everything was so well organized and comfortable.
💌 How to Apply?
I don’t remember the exact steps, but I got an email from YouTube, and I applied through that. So, if you’re a creator, especially in travel or any niche, keep an eye on your emails for next year’s opportunity!
💖 Final Thoughts
This event was not just a summit – it was a life-changing moment for me. I met top creators, celebrities, gave a speech, collaborated, and lived my dream. I am thankful for this chance and hope many of you get to experience this too.
Never stop creating. Never stop dreaming. One day, it all comes true.