Zara expressed her addiction for TikTok, says she's spent over $7000

Zara, a pseudonym for a young woman in her 20s with Somali roots living in the U.S., has spent thousands on TikTok, drawn in by the platform's live battle feature. This phenomenon, particularly popular among Somali users, involves influencers representing different clans engaging in verbal sparring to solicit financial gifts from their followers. While initially excited by the competitive spirit of these "Big Tribal Games," Zara later uncovered a darker side to the trend, which she shared with the BBC World Service.

During these battles, which can attract tens of thousands of viewers, influencers encourage their audience to send gifts—some valued at hundreds of dollars. The winner is determined by the number of gifts received in each five-minute round, with the loser acknowledging their opponent's clan superiority. Events can be hyped online for months, creating an atmosphere charged with anticipation and rivalry.

Zara, motivated by a desire to defend her clan's pride, became immersed in the battles, recalling how thrilling it felt to support her side. However, her obsession led her to spend over $7,000—money originally earmarked for university fees. She reflected on her addiction, admitting that her parents would be devastated if they knew of her expenditures, questioning the lack of gratitude from influencers in return for her hard-earned money.

This story underscores the complex relationship between social media, identity, and financial responsibility, as Zara navigates her addiction amidst the pressures of cultural representation and online performance.