Born in Kuwait and raised with a global perspective, Adrian Franco’s (@adrian.franco28) journey from Saligao to the digital space is one of self-discovery, resilience, and purpose. Blending motivation, lifestyle, and sports, he uses content to reflect, connect, and inspire.
Beginning
I was born and raised in Kuwait. For the first 15 years of my life, Kuwait was all I knew. But in June 2019, things shifted dramatically when I moved to Saligao to complete my HSSC at St Xavier’s Higher Secondary School. From there, I enrolled in a BSc Biotechnology course at St Xavier’s College, Mapusa. At 21 now, having graduated in April 2024 and taken a gap year, I’ve finally stepped fully into a space I’ve long observed from the sidelines, content creation.
For as long as I can remember, my page was just that: “mine.” A place where I stored memories and moments. But something changed during this break from academics. I stopped spectating and started creating. That shift was the beginning of everything.
Passions
What drives me? Three words: Motivation, Lifestyle and Sports
Motivation, because I’m obsessed with holding a mirror to my experiences and letting others feel seen in them.
Lifestyle, because I grew up watching the entertainment industry and creators who felt larger than life.
Sports, because football has always been in my blood, and rugby, though newer; has taken root in my soul.
Reckonings
My first year in college peeled back layers I didn’t know existed. The extroverted, confident version of me finally emerged. But that growth came with stumbles. Like many teens, I was caught off guard by the behavior of those around me. I hit rock bottom. And yet, it was my teachers, especially one that helped me navigate the emotional phase. They didn’t just support me; they unpacked things that went back to childhood.
In those conversations, I realised how unique every perspective is, and how crucial it is to understand where people come from. The more I shared my learnings, the more I was told, “That helped me in ways no one else could.” That’s when the idea of meaningful content creation really began.
Focus
Initially, I was all over the place, no niche, no clear path. But I knew one thing: “My account will either have substance or cease to exist.” That self-awareness helped me focus. I stopped trying to be everywhere. I stuck to what I do best.
Sure, there’s always a pull toward dopamine-rich “trendy” content. I’ve been guilty of doom-scrolling too. But I made a promise to myself: whatever I create should come from a mindful place. If even one person has a better day because of something I put out, it’s worth it.
Process
Content inspiration often strikes randomly, from a quote, a sunset, a line in a song. When it does, I grab my phone, open Notes, jot down keywords, and begin building around that spark.
Understanding engagement metrics on Instagram helps, but I don’t let them control me. I develop a rough script, think of a simple shot-list, and focus on what I want to say. Minimal cuts, basic transitions, and simple fonts, that’s my style. Why? Because I want the message to shine, not the edit.
While I’m not shy about using AI tools, the heart of my work lies in the writing. I believe in choosing words that stick, words that make your chest tighten or eyes widen. Whether it’s music videos, trailers, or Instagram Reels, I observe what lingers emotionally and recreate that feeling in my own way.
Inspiration
I gravitate toward cryptic art, work that forces you to pause, dig deeper, and reflect. That’s what I aim for too. I take notes from cinematic storytellers like Martin Scorsese and lyrical poets like Kendrick Lamar. I value creators who let their presence carry the content, not flashy editing.
From ‘The Sidemen’ to Logan Paul, the entertainers I grew up watching taught me what makes content timeless, not just viral. I admire creators who can tell a story with no fancy tools. That’s the kind of art I want to make.
Realness
I’ve always stayed true to where I come from. I know how it feels to stand out and how lonely that can be. There are consequences to choosing your own path. But I’ve learned to draw inspiration from other creators without losing my own voice.
I don’t follow every trend. I don’t jump on every reel format. If it fits, I’ll adapt. But my goal is never to mimic, it’s to evolve.
Community
Yes, this can feel like a solo journey. But I have an incredible support system. When self-doubt creeps in, they remind me why I started.
I’m now in the process of transitioning from “just another creator” to Adrian Franco. Not in arrogance, but in clarity. I know what I can bring to the table, and now I’m working to build the team that’ll help me reach the next level.
Balance
Outside of content, I play rugby and football. In April 2025, I represented Goa at the Senior Men’s Nationals in Assam. Rugby, a sport I once feared, has taught me more about resilience than anything else.
I’m also a lifelong Arsenal supporter, and any fan will tell you, that’s a lesson in patience, loyalty, and perspective. Working out gives me peace and confidence, which I channel back into my creative work.
Perspective
I never took a course in content creation. Everything I know came from YouTube, from creators I followed, from observing details that most overlook, like fonts, background music, or pacing in a story.
Now, I’m inspired by creators who are also entrepreneurs, people who manage storytelling and branding with finesse. Their journey motivates me to stay grounded and visually compelling.
I prefer doing the work rather than talking about it. Why spoil the surprise? I like keeping people on their toes. The unpredictability keeps things exciting for me and for my audience.
Advice
To anyone considering this path: Be ready for the lows. This space isn’t all pretty aesthetics and viral hits. You’ll feel isolated, you’ll doubt yourself, and people may not take you seriously. You have to “earn” that respect.
Believe in your “delusion” until others do. But stay grounded. Treat everyone with respect, that’s non-negotiable.
Looking back
I wish I’d started sooner. My environment back then normalised lack of ambition, and I fell for it. Now, I stress the importance of finding your tribe. Take part in everything, explore, and don’t be afraid to look like a beginner. Because you never know what you’re capable of until you try. And trust me; trying is the beginning of everything.
