In 2020 she was just another random girl dancing on TikTok. Today? Neevan Ferris one of the country’s biggest digital dynamos, and then some…
Digital content creator, model, dancer, event host, singer and amapiano enthusiast, Neevan Ferris has amassed an audience of nearly three million followers in less than three years, all thanks to the magic that is TikTok. The app catapulted her to success, opening doors to the influencer realm and even the music industry, where she collaborated with award-winning producer and musician Ameen Harron. Stopping by ClubX HQ this month, we caught up with Neevan to find out what she’s been up to lately and how she’s been growing her brand.
Girl about Town
Growing up, Neevan was exposed to many different genres of music, from house and Afro-pop to kwaito. The rhythm of her hometown, Kimberley, instilled a passion for dance. “I’ve always loved to dance since I was a baby. I even begged my mom to take me to dance classes, but unfortunately, we didn’t have the funds,” she says. “Dancing allows me to express myself in ways words can’t.”
Neevan and her family moved to Cape Town a few years ago as she wanted to study psychology. However, the Covid pandemic hit, leaving her with loads of free time and having to find ways to entertain herself.
“My content creation journey started during lockdown. As with everyone else, there was not much to do besides social media and television. TikTok started trending at the time and I gave in,” she chuckles. “I created an account.”
At first her content was more lip-syncing and throwback music reactions than dancing. “As I started creating more content, my following grew and I had my first viral video, which is part of the reason why I am where I am today.” And it’s as simple as that: going viral.
It literally changed her life. Since then, Neevan has become synonymous with acing dance challenges, coming up with some of her own, and just being a full-on TikTok baddie. She owns the space with finesse. Her aim is to entertain and to consistently find new ways to engage other dancers (or total newbies looking to learn). “It’s about being authentic and different. People like someone that’s different,” she states. “Your unique personality is what will set you apart. That’s what you need to bring to the table to be successful.”
Shake It Till You Make It
From dope hip-hop moves to gwara-gwara, Neevan can get down to just about any beat, but she has her go-to, of course, which is currently amapiano. “I love amapiano! I don’t have a specific reason as to why I love it. It’s just a genre that has really grown on me, and whenever I listen to it, I feel free. If I can’t do a certain dance move, I just play some Amapiano. It literally gives me courage!” she says enthusiastically.
Neevan’s infectious energy and creative choreography have resonated with a global audience. But being a mover and shaker at the top of her game definitely attracts a fair amount of criticism from online trolls. Thankfully, Neevan has managed to find ways to keep herself sane through it all.
“If you’re going to be in the spotlight, trust and believe you will have your fair share of hate and judgement, and sadly not all of us can handle it,” she admits. “I think my strong point is that I’m very nonchalant. I was like that even before all the ‘fame’. So when it comes to the hate on social media, it takes a lot for it to have an effect on me. But when it does, I can always rely on my mom. My mom is my go-to for everything I struggle with in life. I call her sometimes just to talk about it, cry a little, get it off my chest, and then I can move on.”
As she continues to work on growing her career in the social media space, and building a lucrative brand, Neevan admits it’s a learning curve that comes with new lessons every day.
“Saving is very important. Being in the content creation industry can be quite unpredictable. You don’t have specific pay dates and jobs aren’t always guaranteed,” she advises. “And the reality is that you are expected to create content every day with no off days.”
@neevan_ferris Who’s watching the F1 race 👀 #neevan_ferris #fyp ♬ Gqoz Gqoz – SilindokuhleShabangu
Keeping her cool
One of her biggest dreams is to collaborate with big Amapiano artists such as Focalistic, Kamo, Major League and Musa Keys. Eventually, she’d also like to create her own perfume, since fragrances are her guilty pleasure. Staying consistent in achieving one’s goals and dreams can take a toll, but Neevan is all about balance and living a life that makes her happy and content.
“I live by self-affirmations. It’s a good mood booster,” she explains. “And when I’m feeling down, I listen to some good music and surround myself with friends or family. That always uplifts my spirits.” It’s true, even baddies can have bad days. Confidence is something that takes work and perseverance.
“People tend to take confidence as arrogance or being ‘full of yourself’, as some would say, but it’s important to understand that confidence is key and instead of looking down on it, we should be embracing it by uplifting others,” she asserts.
“I think being called a baddie can be a good thing, depending on the context. You could be a genius when it comes to cooking or a bad-ass sportswoman, and that would give the term ‘baddie’ a positive connotation… It’s about perspective.”
With her drive and ambition, and doors opening to so many new possibilities, Neevan is proud to be a South African. “Where does one even start! We have incredible diversity as a continent, the warmth of our people, our resilience and, of course, the beautiful people,” she says. “There’s a lot currently lined up for me that I can’t spill just yet, but my brand will keep growing and uplifting others. This is just the beginning!”
The Influencer Phenomenon
As her digital presence grows, Neevan embraces the role of influencer with humility and enthusiasm. She uses her platform to promote not just dance, but also social causes close to her heart. From advocating for mental-health awareness to supporting local artists, Neevan’s influence extends beyond entertainment.
“I once read a quote that said: ‘Believe in yourself and be proud of who you are. Don’t let anyone tell you differently. There is beauty in everyone, and no one should stop you from growing into a confident and strong young person.’ This is what I want my followers to know and be inspired by,” she says.
“I’ve realised I kind of have a responsibility. It’s not just about dance; it’s about making a positive impact. I want to inspire people to pursue their passions and give back to their communities.”
Neevan’s collaborations with other influencers and brands further amplify her reach. She makes content with youth dance groups and rising talent, all eager to associate with her dynamic persona. Despite the commercial success, though, Neevan remains grounded, always crediting her peers, community and fans for her ability to keep going and make new content that spreads positive vibes.
Neevan Ferris is more than just a dancer or TikTok star; she’s a symbol of passion, resilience and cultural pride. Her journey from being an “introverted wallflower” to occupying the screens of millions is proof of the transformative power of dance and the opportunities of the Digital Age.
As she dances her way into hearts and history, Neevan reminds us all of the beauty of staying true to yourself and the magic that happens when you simply just take a leap…
About Neevan
Full Name: Neevan Ferris
DOB: 8 December 2000
Age: 23
Star Sign: Sagittarius
Hometown: Kimberley, Northern Cape
Quick Q&A
Pet Peeve: Dirty feet
Your Fashion Icon: Rihanna
Fashion Staples: Earrings, sunnies and a handbag
A Song You Always Dance To: ‘Sister Bethina’ by Mgarimbe, of course!
Describe Yourself in One Word: Goofy
A Quote You Live By: “Your network is your net worth.”
3 Things You Can’t Live Without: My dog, my cellphone and food
Best TikTok You’ve Ever Posted: Lip syncs of the movie Noem My Skollie
What’s in her handbag?
Lipgloss because no one likes ashy lips!
Perfume to always smell good.
Tissues for emergencies.
A pair of earrings because I always forget to put some on.
My shades just in case we’re out in the sun.
Words: Charndre Emma Kippie
Photography: Zhann Solomons
Dressed by: THE FIX
