Crisis Time in Social Media Influence in Kerala
As a Digital marketing specialist in Calicut, I have seen firsthand how social media plays a crucial role during crisis. As a result of social media, Kerala has faced several challenges. Take a look at some significant events and how social media played a role in them.
Table of Contents
Nipah Virus Outbreak
During this period of the Nipah virus outbreak, we experienced great horror. There was a big scare in 2018 when this deadly virus appeared out of nowhere. It became a medium for sharing essential updates and precautionary measures which helped disseminate critical information through the platform. However, misinformation and fear-mongering were also rampant via social media.
I used my account to update people through health officers on the symptoms and preventive methods while helping create awareness among them. This way, they would be pacified since they would know the correct things only. At the local level, health authorities and the government used social networks to keep real-time updates on cases, debunk myths, and offer guidance, among others.
COVID-19 Pandemic
The involvement of social media during COVID-19 further substantiated its presence during these times. Beyond being an informational resource during lockdowns it was also a tool for connectivity amongst people. The efforts to raise funds increased because there was unity in assisting those who needed help most.
I actively participated in different campaigns to collect money for PPE kits, food supplies and medical help. The response was incredible, indicating the value of collective energy. Sites like Instagram and Facebook were filled with requests for support, and people were very supportive. However, a wave of scams also swept across this period. It was depressing watching certain individuals prey on such situations.
We had to be extra vigilant by verifying that fundraisers were legitimate before giving or promoting them. This was important for maintaining trust through transparency and accountability. Donor assurance involved frequent updates and meticulous financial records showing how their funds were utilized for the intended cause.
Raheem Fundraising in Kerala
One of my favourite moments was Raheem’s fundraising campaign. Many people’s hearts were touched by Raheem a young boy who needed urgent medical treatment. His story went viral on social media and we managed to raise the funds required within days for his medication.
Social media influencers played a major role in amplifying his narrative globally. They used their fan base to create awareness about him as well as encourage donations from the public. This campaign served as an epitome of positive connections established between social media influencers and common men doing something good towards humanity.
Arjun Shirur Landslide in Karnataka
The Arjun Shirur landslide in Karnataka in 2024 was a stark reminder of nature’s fury, causing significant damage and loss of lives. At this time, social media played a major role in organizing assistance. We raised money through different digital platforms such as online contributions to buy drugs which are very crucial especially now. Once again, this calamity generated another opportunity for social media influencers to play an important role by publicizing the occurrence and thereafter organizing relief initiatives. These individuals used their platforms to expose the misery of the victims and called on those following them to do something about it.
Latest Landslip in Wayanad: Meppadi, Mundakai, Chooralmala
The most recent landslides in Wayanad specifically at Meppadi, Mundakai and Chooralmala have been disastrous. Destructions were many with various households losing their homes as well as their sources of income. Social media became indispensable for relief coordination.
We shared real-time posts through Facebook and Instagram on what was going on including the immediate needs of affected communities. Fundraising campaigns were launched for purchasing foodstuffs, clothing materials as well as medicine donations. This is where social media personalities came into play informing people about what was happening and urging them to respond.
The response was amazing with donations coming in from everywhere. On-ground relief work was coordinated by volunteers organized through social media. The positive impact of such a crisis on society is reflected in the warmth with which it responded, demonstrating how social media can be used for good.
Managing Fundraising and Tackling Scams
Fundraising management during such crisis requires tactfulness. Therefore, transparency and accountability are important values to uphold. We thoroughly kept all records for our donors and informed them regularly about their donations. This built trust and attracted more people to contribute.
Vigilance is required to deal with scams. For this reason, we urged individuals to only donate through trusted accounts and report any suspicious activity. A big stride also came in sensitizing the community on how to recognize fraudulent campaigns. We shared tips on how one could confirm if a fundraiser was authentic or not to consider if they should donate.
The Role of Social Media Influencers
Crisis management now depends on social media influencers. With their wide coverage, they bring a lot of support within a short time frame. In various fundraising and awareness initiatives in Kerala, influencers have been leading the way.
Their input would make it more credible as well as increase its popularity. I am a digital marketing specialist in Calicut and I work with influencers to achieve the desired results in our campaigns. Their capacity to involve people and mobilize their followers has facilitated the success of numerous fundraising and relief activities.
Conclusion
The influence of social media during crisis can hardly be ignored. It is inherently capable of uniting individuals and rendering necessary assistance. Nonetheless, it also carries challenges such as misinformation alongside scams. It requires caution, transparency and collective action from all stakeholders to manoeuvre through this terrain.
Looking back on these events, we have used social media to support each other brilliantly. We cannot stop making a difference even when everything seems hopeless. In my current role as a digital marketing specialist in Calicut, I need to use my expertise for the betterment of our community in every aspect possible. Let us be updated about what’s happening around us while still maintaining safety precautions against any situation.
