“Back in the day, people sat under trees to hear wise words from village elders. Now? They scroll through TikTok or Instagram.”
That’s how 22-year-old Chika, a student in Enugu, described today’s shift in who we listen to. Across the world, more people are asking: Are influencers the new community elders?
Influencers now shape what we wear, how we talk, what we believe, and even how we see ourselves. A 2024 report by Statista found that over 62% of Gen Z trust influencers more than traditional leaders or media outlets.
In the past, elders earned respect through years of experience. Today, many influencers gain that same respect through relatable content and viral posts.
But is this a good thing? And what does it say about how we view respect, wisdom, and leadership in this digital age?
What Made Community Elders Valuable
In many communities, elders were like walking libraries. They shared stories, gave advice, and helped settle problems. People listened to them because they had lived long, seen a lot, and made many wise choices.
Followers or likes didn’t choose the elders. They earned respect by their actions and years of experience. You could visit them in person, ask questions, and get thoughtful answers.
But today, things are changing. Many young people now follow influencers instead. That’s why some say influencers are the new community elders. They speak to large crowds, offer advice, and influence how people think, much like elders once did.
Rise of Digital Influence
Social media has transformed the way people share ideas. A person with a phone and internet can now reach thousands, even millions. They don’t need to be old or have titles. What matters is how well they connect with others.
Influencers build trust by sharing genuine stories, which can be humorous or profound. People like this because it feels personal.
Today, influencers are the new community elders for many young people. They offer quick advice, comfort, and updates, just like elders used to, but on screens and in short videos.
Why Young People Listen to Influencers
In the past, people turned to elders for advice, comfort, and support. Today, many people obtain the same things from influencers.
Here’s why so many believe influencers are the new community elders and why people listen to them:
1. Honest Stories Build Trust
Many influencers openly discuss their real lives, failures, successes, breakups, and difficult days. This honesty pulls people in. It makes them feel, “This person gets me.”
Unlike public figures who often appear perfect, influencers reveal their struggles. This raw truth is one of the primary reasons people now believe influencers are the new community elders.
They guide from experience, not just age.
2. Simple Language, Big Impact
Influencers speak in ways that feel friendly and clear. No hard words. No long talks. Just real talk. When they post about topics like self-worth or saving money, it sticks.
That’s because they talk like a friend, not like a teacher. This simple style helps people feel seen and understood.
3. Always Just a Tap Away
Elders of the past sat in family homes or village centres; today, “elders” post on phones. Influencers are easily accessible on Instagram, YouTube, or TikTok.
You can follow them, like their posts, or drop a question in the comments. It’s this closeness that makes many say influencers are the new community elders. This is they’re near, even when they’re far.
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4. Online Spaces Feel Like Home
Some influencers don’t just talk, they build real communities. Their comment sections, Telegram groups, or Instagram lives feel safe and warm.
People come together, share their thoughts, and even find support. It’s like a digital family meeting. In these spaces, followers look up to the influencer the same way people once looked up to elders.
That’s why many believe influencers are the new community elders because they help people feel seen and heard.
5. They Set Trends in Real Time
From slang to skincare, influencers decide what’s cool. With one post, they can start a movement or change how people think.
Elders once led change in slow, steady ways. Influencers do it fast and often with style. This power to shape ideas quickly is part of why they’ve taken on a new kind of leadership.
6. They Show Up Where It Matters
Influencers now speak on more than fashion or fun. Many raise their voices during elections, protests, or mental health campaigns.
They provide advice, raise funds, and stand with others during difficult times. This support role was once traditionally filled by community elders.
Now, it’s easy to see why people say influencers are the new community elders. They don’t just post, they show up when people need them.
Challenges and Differences
Even though influencers have become essential voices, there are still significant differences between them and the elders of the past.
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1. Not All Advice Is Wise
Elders earned their place through years of learning, watching, and helping others. Influencers may be popular, but not all of them give helpful or proper advice.
Some just want likes or money. That’s one apparent reason why not everyone agrees that influencers are the new community elders. Some lack the deep wisdom that elders were known for.
2. Fame Doesn’t Always Equal Trust
Just because someone has many followers doesn’t mean they should lead others. Some influencers promote harmful ideas or fake products.
Elders, on the other hand, were usually trusted by their people for good reason. Today, it can be hard to tell who’s real and who’s just selling something.
3. Fast Voices, Short Memories
Influencers often transition from one topic to another. One week it’s love advice, the next it’s politics. Elders, however, stayed with their people through time.
They remembered stories, family problems, and history. That’s a kind of care that’s harder to find online.
What It Means for Communities
The rise of influencers has transformed the way people connect and learn. Today, many young people turn to social media for help, not just for fun.
This has created new kinds of communities, online spaces where people feel heard and supported.
These groups can be powerful. People share ideas, help one another, and grow together. It’s a fresh way to build trust and care. But it also means we must choose who we follow with care.
When we say influencers are the new community elders, we’re saying they now shape what people believe, value, and follow. This brings both great power and great responsibility.
Conclusion
In many ways, influencers are the new community elders. They guide, support, and shape how people think, especially online. But unlike traditional elders, they don’t always offer deep wisdom.
Still, they matter. In this digital age, leadership takes on a different form. What matters is using that influence to build trust, share truth, and help others grow.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Are Influencers Replacing Community Elders?
Many see them as modern guides. While influencers offer ways to connect and learn, they don’t fully replace the deep-rooted knowledge and lifelong presence of elders.
2. How Do Influencers Build Trust So Fast?
They share real-life stories and respond to comments. This sense of closeness encourages people to open up more than they would with distant figures.
3. What Are the Risks of Following Influencers Over Elders?
Not all influencers have profound wisdom. Some may push trends that mislead or harm. It’s essential to verify sources, ask questions, and remain informed about what you believe.
4. Can Influencers Offer Real-Life Support, Not Just Online Advice?
Yes. Many influencers host meetups, workshops, or chat groups. These offline events help turn virtual trust into real-world bonds.
