My 4 Things of Influence: Thanya Fox

The ability to have an effect on others. Fox, 14, Thailand.

What does influence mean to you?

Influence to me is something or someone with the ability to have an effect on others, to the point where their mindsets are shifted. We thrive on this source of inspiration as if it were a fuel. Without this sense of direction, we’d be lost.

What qualities do people/things of influence have?

Passion. Drive. Influencers are the ones who stop wishing and start making a change. They face tasks head on, with determination. Their actions have motives, which, in my opinion, is what makes them so effective. But it’s important to remember, that they, too, have influences.

What is one person of influence and why?

Conan Gray has always held a special place in my heart. He is a rapidly growing YouTuber who manages to stay so pure and humble under the pressures of social media. You can see the genuine passion under his creative and absolutely adorable films. Conan’s influence inspires me to not only keep creating content, but to always stay true to myself.

What is one brand of influence and why?

Disney probably had the biggest influence on everyone’s childhood. Disney not only changed how animated films were made, but also how people viewed animated films. We all grew up with our eyes locked on these cartoons, so the stories are what shaped our morals and set the (sometimes negative) stereotypes which have stuck with us throughout our lives.

What is one experience of influence and why?

Over the summer, I traveled to the northeast of Thailand, to a province called Sisaket. I was there to volunteer at an organic farm. The goal was to face and solve issues not only for the farm but also for the local people from the surrounding village. This whole experience opened my eyes to these amazing people, who not only worked so hard to tackle their issues but were striving to be the best version of themselves. Now, every time I’m faced with an issue, I think of this particular experience and these people for a source of influence.

What is one “system” or platform of influence and why?

I find that the TEDx platform is one of the most influential systems. So many passionate people simply talking about things that interest them, their experiences, the list goes on. And with the help of the Internet, these thought-provoking talks are accessible to anyone around the globe. The use of words can be so effective; it’s crazy how watching one video can completely change your outlook on life.