Ghanaian social media personality Bannerman-Martin Lorretta, widely known as Aba Dope, has spoken candidly about her transformation from a target of online harassment to a thriving digital entrepreneur with over a million followers on TikTok.
In a recent interview reflecting on her rise to fame, Aba Dope revealed that cyberbullying was one of the earliest and most difficult challenges she faced when she began sharing content online. Before gaining prominence on TikTok, she was active on Snapchat, where she posted personal reflections and lifestyle updates.
According to her, the transition to TikTok marked a turning point in her career. She said she realised she was gaining attention and decided to shift platforms, a move that ultimately changed her life.
“Cyberbullying was my first difficulty, which I overcame over time. When I learned about TikTok, I was already on Snapchat, speaking about various things. When I realised I’d been noticed, I switched to TikTok. When I posted a photo of my physical appearance, people complimented me,” she recounted.
Despite the encouragement she later received, Aba Dope admitted that the early days were marked by harsh criticism and mockery. She explained that staying consistent with her content helped her gradually build confidence and cultivate a loyal audience.
The influencer also disclosed that her parents were initially unaware of her involvement in entertainment until she appeared on television. Prior to her online fame, she had served as a prayer secretary, a role that reflected a different phase of her life before stepping into the spotlight.
Over time, her persistence translated into tangible success. Aba Dope said her platform has brought her financial rewards, increased visibility and career opportunities, though it also comes with the pressure of constantly producing new content for a large audience.
“In my path of content creation, I’ve accomplished a lot in terms of financial success, popularity and celebrity. There are other challenges, such as having little spare time since millions of people are eager for new content, but it opens the road to further fame and money,” she said.
Beyond social media, she has expanded her brand into business, launching a restaurant and hosting a television show, further cementing her status as a multifaceted entrepreneur.
Reflecting on her journey, Aba Dope expressed pride in her growth, noting that while she has not yet reached all her goals, she remains satisfied with how far she has come despite the obstacles.
“I’m proud of myself for making it this far. I haven’t accomplished my goal yet, but I’m quite happy with my accomplishments,” she added.