In Conversation with: Amanda Sandz

Amanda Sandz is an easy going, bubbly individual. An explorer, always ready to discover new places and connect with new people. A multi-passionate creative with interests in vlogging (YouTube), photography and fashion design, just to name a few. 

I have a passion for creating content and made the decision to share this with a wider audience. I went from barely posting on social media to starting a YouTube channel and posting more of my casual photography on my Instagram. 

How did your name come to be?

It’s a combination of my names. There are quite a few “Amanda’s” out there, so I added my nickname to the mix and voilà, Amanda Sandz. 

When did you start your channel and what type of content do you focus on?

I launched my YouTube Channel in August 2020, so it’s been about 5 months now. It’s a lifestyle channel so there is a mix of content, something for everyone. I’ve had videos on places to visit/travel, best spots to grab food, my top Netflix recommendations, shopping hauls and so much more. I haven’t limited myself because I have a lot to offer. 

I also have more conversational content where I focus on motivational messages and a segment that I call “real talk”. I’m going to be doing a lot more of these, this year and beyond. I touch on relatable issues that we all face in life and I particularly love the discussions we have in my comment section – it’s good for people to know that they are not alone. 

I summarise what the channel is about in these two short videos:

1. Introduction video

2. Channel update

Currently uploads are available weekly. 

Here’s the link to my YouTube channel, I’d love for people to connect with me:

Amanda Sandz

What do you hope people will get from watching your content?

I create to inspire, motivate and encourage. I want my content to show people that you don’t have to change who you are to be accepted or appreciated – that each person is enough and has something unique to offer. 

On my Instagram I share the things that I love: travel, photography and inspirational quotes/captions. I create refreshing content and want people to draw from this. 

Who are your favourite content creators?

This is a tough one 🙂 I’m inspired by different people for various reasons. I’ll name two:

Patricia Bright. Her story is so inspirational, and I think she’s a testament that you can pursue your passion and make a career of it. She speaks of how people used to judge her for posting vlogs on the internet, but she continued anyway because she enjoyed it. She’s grown her channel to 2.9 Million subscribers and that’s big. 

Tari Karemba is one of my faves, I’m inspired by her creativity and passion. I’ve learnt quite a few things on hair and beauty from her. 

What are your highlights of being a content creator?

Being a content creator allows me to tap into my inner creativity. I love that I can express myself through my content. I’ve also grown as an individual because of this. 

A major highlight has been creating a space and community that I can connect with. I’ve had the privilege of connecting with people around the world. I’m truly grateful for everyone who’s joined me on this journey. 

Another highlight is when people reach out to me and tell me that something I said/did inspired them too – for me this is everything. 

How did you kept yourself motivated throughout 2020?

– Prioritising “me time” so that I could refocus 

– Surrounding myself with a supportive team 

– Through prayer 

– Listening to motivational messages to uplift me 

Who are the rocks in your life?

God, my family and my best friend.

What are the songs that have kept you going throughout 2020?

I’ll name a few, in no particular order:

Hallelujah by Burna Boy – it’s a vibey song with a deeper meaning. A song about gratefulness and I’m big on being grateful in every season. 

Mufudzi Wemombe by Trevor Dongo feat. Feli Nandi – It’s a very beautiful song. It speaks about an underdog who everyone believes will amount to nothing because he’s just a cattle herder. He triumphs in the end – shocking them all. This resonates with me personally because I’ve seen that at various stages in life, people labelled me based on their own views/opinions. However, it’s not their opinions that write my story, God does. 

Mutare by Sha Sha – I love this song because it’s about remembering your roots and appreciating all the people who’ve made sacrifices and been there with you along your journey. I felt that. Possibly my favourite song from Sha Sha.

Reckless Love by Cory Asbury – A worship song that reminds me that God’s love for me is limitless, that He’s always with me through the highs and the lows. 

Do It Again by Elevation Worship – Another worship song that keeps me going every year. It serves as a reminder that if God did it once He can do it again – just keep the faith. 

Bank on It by Burna Boy – This is a great song. The lyrics, the beat and the harmonies, Burna did a thing here. 

Ubomi Abumanga by Sun-El Musician – I love this song because it’s a reminder not to give up. A reminder that life goes on so get back up and keep going.

Umlilo by DJ Zinhle – it’s a vibey song that uplifts my mood. I always want to break into a dance when it comes on. 

What is your favourite thing about being Zimbabwean?

Zimbabwe is such a beautiful country; I hope to explore it more. I also love the people, there’s a sense of community amongst Zimbabweans. We also have a great sense of humour 🙂 

What’s the best advice you ever been given?

To be authentic and true to myself. I’ve applied this everywhere in life and found that there’s a freedom in just being me – no facades, no pretences. I learnt to appreciate that there’s only one me. 

How would you like to be remembered?

As an authentic person who encouraged others to live full, intentional lives. Someone who inspired people to look around and see the beauty in even the smallest of things. I want to be remembered as someone who encouraged people to follow their dreams and believe in themselves.

Social media

YouTube: Amanda Sandz

Instagram: AmandaSandz