Aware of hidden agendas, people no longer believe in the possibility of absolute truth or complete transparency from institutions, public figures, and individuals. Yet they are still drawn to honesty, integrity, and – at times – even vulnerability, which they expect from peers and brands alike.

Dr. K has built a following as a mental health guru on the popular video-sharing platform Twitch, conducting interviews with high-profile gamers about their personal experiences and self-care within the digital landscape. What does popularity say about health and wellness in online communities?

When Naomi Osaka was fined $15,000 for not speaking to the press at the French Open, she requested that her fine be donated to charity. Mental health app Calm has stepped in to honour that request, by donating the same sum of money to French mental health charity Laureus.

Britons are emerging from lockdowns with a new consumer mindset: they’re rethinking overt consumption and are keen to support local and circular economies. Tapping into this is Thriftify, an online marketplace that brings charity shops into the digital realm.

Crafting and promoting a strong personal brand is key to finding success as an influencer, but is this creative labour always a solo activity? Canvas8 spoke to Colten Meisner, researcher at Cornell University, about how livestreaming creates a unique interplay between fans and creators.