The self-made mythos is as powerful as ever, despite societal upheaval testing its limits. Even mundane pastimes have been monetised as people cash in on massive audiences and leave no niche unexplored. Selling out is no longer a source of embarrassment, it’s just what makes the world go round.

Headlines about hashtag squatting and unchecked privilege have given many social media users a negative view of influencer culture. Yet while people may call out the perfect lifestyles presented online, these cultural figures remain as relevant as ever. So, how should they wield their power?

Only Fans is a social platform that normalizes sex work, fuels hustle culture, and uses a subscription model to turn social currency into cash. It empowers creators to be in charge of their brand and is part of a growing number of platforms that contribute to The Passion Economy.

Changing algorithms, non-stop advertising, and the dissemination of misinformation all contribute to declining trust in social media giants. Enter the passion economy: online community platforms built around niche passions. What does this mean for the state of social play?

Contra is an online community that aims to improve the way freelancers find work and build professional connections and relationships. There are more freelance workers in the US than ever before – as the gig economy evolves, they’re looking for platforms that provide control and security.