Switching Gears from a Fulltime Job to Content Creator

In the bustling crossroads of life and career, Awashish Ojha has navigated a path less travelled, weaving together a rich tapestry of experiences from banking to motovlogging. Born in Biratnagar and educated across India, Ojha’s journey is a testament to his pursuit of passion, self-discovery and creative expression. His academic path took him through Kerala, Coimbatore and Bangalore, culminating in a master’s degree from M.S. Ramaiah College in Karnataka. “My goal is to do something out of passion, to be my own boss, and to give back to society,” Ojha shares. This commitment to creative expression and self-direction has propelled him to explore diverse career paths.

Ojha’s professional journey began in 2007 with roles that included working in a call center, volunteering at Agro Enterprise Centre, and stints in media and hydropower. “I didn’t know what I wanted to do initially; I was exploring various fields,” he recalls. His tenure in media allowed him to develop public relations skills, but it was his work with Morang Auto, handling marketing for Yamaha and Skoda, that ignited his long-standing interest in automobiles. Despite a successful career at Hyundai, his dissatisfaction with banking led him to a new adventure in motovlogging.

The onset of Covid 19 became a turning point for Ojha. “During the pandemic, I found myself drawn to motovlogging on YouTube,” he says. Inspired by his travels and a suggestion from his brother, Ojha began creating content not merely as a vlogger but as someone who travels extensively. “I started motovlogging because of my travels. I didn’t set out to make videos; I just wanted to share my journeys.”

When it comes to creating content, Ojha embraces spontaneity. “I go with the flow, talk to people, and let the experience guide the narrative,” he says. His motovlogs are largely unscripted, capturing the essence of his journeys as they unfold. In contrast, his vehicle reviews are meticulously planned with scripts that delve into the history and significance of each automobile. “I believe in creating content that adds value and respects the audience,” he asserts. His approach reflects a commitment to authenticity, avoiding sensationalism and clickbait.

Balancing motovlogging with his responsibilities as a lecturer and parent is a complex task. “I manage my time by utilising gaps between university teaching schedules and public holidays,” Ojha states. He teaches at Malaysian and American universities which provides him with breaks to undertake trips. Despite the challenges, he finds joy in blending work with his passion for travel. “Sometimes, the work can become overwhelming, but my passion keeps me going,” he adds.

One of Ojha’s most memorable experiences was a solo ride from Kathmandu to Ladakh. “Stranded in a remote area with a malfunctioning scooter and no mobile signal, I had to rely on my resourcefulness and the kindness of strangers,” he recounts. This experience underscored his belief that “every difficult situation has a solution; you just need to stay calm and keep looking.”

Technological evolution has played a significant role in his vlogging career. Starting with a basic GoPro Hero 2018, Ojha upgraded his gear to include a better microphone and editing laptop. “I initially struggled with technical issues like air noise, but continuous learning and upgrading have improved my content quality,” he notes. His investment in an iPhone for video recording reflects his commitment to enhancing his production quality, despite the high cost.

Monetising motovlogging poses its own challenges. “YouTube monetisation requires a substantial subscriber base and watch time, and in Nepal, ad revenue alone isn’t sufficient,” Ojha explains. He relies on sponsorships and brand collaborations to sustain his vlogging career. “Patience and dedication are key. YouTube is a long-term game, and success doesn’t come overnight,” he advises aspiring content creators.

Ojha’s influence on travel and adventure in Nepal is evident. “I have seen people buying bikes and embracing travel inspired by my content,” he says. His active presence on social media and frequent updates has sparked interest and action among his followers. However, he also advises against feeling pressured by online social media standards and emphasises enjoying local travel experiences.

Navigating Nepal’s challenging roads requires preparation and caution. “Proper gear, like riding pants, boots, and helmets, is essential. Road conditions can be tough, so planning and riding skills are crucial,” he advises. Ojha’s personal experience with road vibrations has led him to seek bikes with better comfort for long rides, reflecting his attention to both performance and health. Looking ahead, Ojha is excited about future adventures. “I plan to travel to China, Thailand via Burma, and Europe via Pakistan,” he reveals. “These ambitious projects are contingent on various factors, including finances and health,” he says.

For Ojha, finding time for himself comes naturally during his travels. “Traveling alone allows me to reflect and recharge,” he explains. At home, he cherishes simple moments, like watching TV with his daughter, which provides a necessary balance to his hectic schedule. Ojha’s journey from banking to motovlogging is a compelling story of exploration and self-discovery.