From the lush jungles of Bali, Nigerian influencer and entrepreneur Abike ‘Papaya Ex ‘Raheem shared a series of stunning photographs — a visual manifesto of a dream achieved.
In one captivating image, she sits poised on an elephant partially submerged in a tropical river, her hand raised in a salute to the sun.
The photos, shared from her exclusive birthday celebration at the luxury resort Numa Bali, were captioned with a powerful reflection: “No one told me I’d be here today, turning what I read in books into reality.”
This moment of serene triumph in Indonesia is the latest peak in a meteoric rise for the 31-year-old, who has carved a unique space as a “modern entertainer”—a blend of influencer, actress, producer, and businesswoman.
The Bali elephant, a symbol of wisdom and strength, mirrors her own journey: from sharing fashion content online to building a multi-faceted empire that now includes million-view film projects and high-value brand partnerships.
Bali Dreaming: How Papaya Ex turned aspiration into reality
The Path to a Million Followers and Beyond
Papaya Ex’s remark about “books” and “reality” hints at a journey of intentional self-creation. Her digital fame, now boasting over a million dedicated Instagram followers, was celebrated not quietly, but with the same grand energy that defines her brand.
In June 2022, she famously “splashed millions” to thank her fans, hosting a massive event in Lagos complete with performances, a trade fair, and jaw-dropping giveaways, including a brand-new Lexus saloon car and numerous iPhones. The celebration was a statement: her success was communal, flashy, and hard-won.
More Than a “Viral Moment”: Building a Legacy
What sets Papaya Ex apart in the crowded digital landscape is its strategic expansion beyond the “highlight reel.” She has leveraged her platform and signature “Arab Money” energy—a theme of aspirational luxury—to build tangible ventures.
From Skits to Silver Screens: Moving beyond skits and cameos, she ventured into production. Her first film, “The Night Market,” amassed over 2.3 million views on YouTube within just one month of release, proving her storytelling could captivate audiences at scale.
The Business of Influence: Her credibility isn’t just measured in likes, but in investment. The landmark ₦50 million (approximately $55,000 USD) brand ambassador deal with Zikel Cosmetics in 2024 stands as a testament to her serious commercial appeal.
Advocacy and Authenticity: Perhaps most importantly, Papaya Ex has used her voice for advocacy, speaking candidly about mental health awareness within the influencer community. This willingness to discuss the pressures behind the glamour has established her as a relatable and resilient thought leader, adding depth to her brand of unapologetic success.
The Meaning of the Moment
The Bali photos, therefore, are not a random vacation. They are a curated chapter in her ongoing narrative. The image of the elephant’s trunk wrapped gently around her shoulders speaks to a harmony with immense power—perhaps reflecting her own navigation of fame’s might.
The serene backdrop of Numa Bali is the physical manifestation of the “good things of life” she once wished for her followers.
Papaya Ex is redefining what it means to be a creator in Africa and beyond. She represents a new generation of “hybrid hustlers” who are actors one day, brand moguls the next, and mental health advocates in between. Her journey from 40,000 followers to million-dollar deals and viral films is a masterclass in personal branding evolution.
