EXCLUSIVEDrew Afualo Shares Her Biggest Piece of Advice for Aspiring Influencers: 'Stand Firmly Behind What You Do'

Drew Afualo is dishing on what it takes to be a social media star.
Aug. 27 2026, Published 7:30 a.m. ET
Drew Afualo worked hard to achieve her success and find her audience.
From launching her podcast, "The Comment Section with Drew Afualo," to making both the Forbes Top Creators List and the TIME100 Creators list, the influencer knows what it takes to capture the public's attention.
Afualo speaks exclusively with OK! about her biggest piece of advice for aspiring social media stars, her most thought-provoking interview, gearing up for her wedding and her partnership with Popsicle.
Biggest Piece of Advice for Aspiring Influencers

Drew Afualo advises aspiring influencers to 'stand firmly behind what you do.'
With the rise of influencer culture, the TikTok star feels authenticity is the only way to gain a following and keep people engaged in what she's doing.
"Find something you genuinely love and put your whole heart into it, whether that’s a cause you care about, a hobby you’re passionate about, or a creative pursuit that excites you," Afualo says. "Stand firmly behind what you do, lead with genuine intent and people will connect with that."
"My community always tells me that my words help empower them, but at the same time, it’s their support that has empowered me," she continues. "There is always a lot of noise online. However, the kindness and thoughtfulness that comes through from my community has given me the support to keep doing what I do."
Favorite Guest She's Interviewed on Her Podcast

Drew Afualo says Dwayne 'The Rock' Johnson has been one of her favorite podcast guests.
While Afualo has sat down with numerous celebrities, one guest stands out from all of the rest.
"I love all my guests, but getting to interview Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson was such an amazing, full circle moment," the star admits.
"He is such a kind, genuine person who I am so lucky to know. Being able to connect with him over our Samoan heritage made it such a beautiful, personal moment for me," she notes.
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Her Wedding Day

Drew Afualo married Pili Tanuvasa in Hawaii.
Afualo recently tied the knot with her longtime partner, Pili Tanuvasa, in a romantic ceremony in Hawaii. Although the day was incredible, she admits there was some chaos in the lead-up.
"It has been both equal parts crazy and rewarding," she explains about prepping for the big day.
"Family is paramount to me, so I was most looking forward to sharing the special day surrounded by them and my best friends who are like family to me as well. And of course, marrying my incredible, handsome husband!" the bride gushes.
Partnership With Popsicle

Drew Afualo joined forces with Popsicle to represent Team Orange.
Now, Afualo has joined forces with Popsicle to remind her followers to cool down and enjoy their favorite sugary snack this summer.
"Popsicle has always been a staple summer treat of mine, so when the opportunity presented itself, I was all in to represent Team Orange," she raves.


