Abubakar Finiin (@kidsofthecolony), the London creator behind the viral travel series Kids of the Colony, joins CREATOR:The Podcast to discuss how he turned BBC rejection into a huge YouTube success. In this episode, Abu shares his journey from university student to independent TV producer, including how he convinced his friends to travel to Bangladesh, Somaliland, and Morocco to explore their parents' homelands. Host Ross Borden explores Abu's unconventional approach to filmmaking, from learning camera equipment for the first time in Dhaka to creating authentic cultural exchanges through working local jobs like delivering water in Somaliland and serving tea to elders. Abu offers behind-the-scenes insights about funding episodes through regular day jobs, plus the viral TikTok moment that changed everything and brought attention from major publications like The Guardian. Whether you're an aspiring creator or simply interested in authentic travel content, this conversation delivers valuable perspective on building something meaningful without industry permission or experience.

To learn more about CREATOR: The Podcast, visit creatorthepodcast.com

00:00 Introduction to Abubakar Finiin

01:14 Origin of Kids of the Colony

03:13 Choosing Countries for the Series

05:43 Why the Show Resonated Globally

07:56 Advice for Aspiring Creators

08:57 Show Format and Early Challenges

10:33 Life in Somaliland & Creating Challenges

12:51 Producing and Filming the Series

13:00 Somaliland Explained

13:40 Future of Kids of the Colony

15:24 Funding & Brand Deals

16:53 TikTok & Viral Growth

19:37 Full Circle with Networks

20:11 Closing Thoughts & Where to Find Abu