WATCH: Shamein Makungu Sabeka's authentic vlogs transform perspectives on squatter camp life

In a world where influencers often showcase glamorous lifestyles and set unrealistic expectations for young people, Shamein Makungu Sabeka stands out by embracing her authentic self.

The 25-year-old content creator has launched her platform, ‘Shamein Unfiltered’, which candidly reveals the realities of living in a squatter camp.

Her refreshing honesty has resonated with South Africans, leading to a rapidly growing community on Instagram and TikTok that applauds her for her transparency.

Based in the heart of Johannesburg, a city rich with stories and opportunities, Sabeka has been vlogging for the past nine months about her life experiences, particularly her journey from adversity to empowerment.

Through her platform, she seeks to inspire others, demonstrating that regardless of one’s circumstances, it is possible to dream big and achieve one’s goals.

A unique perspective

Sabeka's motivation to document her life stems from a desire to share a narrative that is often overlooked.

“I wanted to tell a story that isn’t often told,” she explains.

“The reality of life in a squatter camp is filled with resilience, hope and determination. By sharing my journey, I hope to break stereotypes and inspire others who may find themselves in similar situations, demonstrating that where you start does not define where you can go.”

One of the most significant creative risks Sabeka has taken is openly sharing her life in the squatter camp while simultaneously building a professional career.

Despite warnings from others about how this could affect their perception of her, she prioritised authenticity.

“Many people told me it could impact how others perceive me, but I decided authenticity was more important,” she shares.

Today, her content resonates with thousands, allowing her to collaborate with brands and foster a supportive community around her journey.

Daily inspiration

Every day, Sabeka wakes up inspired by the potential impact of her story.

“Every message I receive from someone saying my journey encouraged them to keep going fuels me,” she says.

She genuinely loves her work, both as a Business Intelligence Analyst and a content creator.

“The opportunity to learn and grow continuously drives me forward,” she adds, reinforcing her commitment to her dual career path.

Among her various projects, Sabeka is most proud of the content that highlights life in the squatter camp while blending it with professional advice and motivational insights.

“These projects hold significant meaning for me, as they illustrate that success is attainable without forgetting one’s roots,” she explains.

They serve as a beacon of hope for others, encouraging them to dream beyond their circumstances.

Challenging misconceptions

Sabeka also reveals that she often encounters misconceptions about her journey.

“Many assume that my professional achievements mean I didn’t face challenges growing up,” she notes.

In reality, her path was fraught with obstacles that shaped her character and provided her with the perspective needed to succeed.

By sharing these experiences, she aims to challenge these assumptions and foster a deeper understanding of resilience.

Living in Johannesburg, she is inspired by the city’s energy and diversity.

“It’s a city full of opportunities, stories, and inspiration,” she says.

“If you’re willing to work hard and look beyond the surface, there’s so much to discover and achieve here.”

This vibrant backdrop fuels her creativity and passion for storytelling.

Looking ahead

As she looks to the future, Sabeka is focused on expanding her motivational content.

“In 2025, I’m planning to launch new vlogs that provide an even deeper look into life in the squatter camp, alongside sharing career advice to help others navigate their professional growth,” she reveals.

She is also exploring collaborations with brands and other creators who align with her mission of empowerment and authenticity.

For those contemplating a journey into vlogging and sharing their life experiences, Sabeka offers simple yet powerful advice: “Be authentic, be consistent, and don’t fear what others will think. Your story matters."

"Your experiences can inspire and uplift someone who really needs it. Take the leap, trust yourself, and keep going - even when it feels hard. The impact you can have is bigger than you imagine.”