Camilo Cifuentes, The Influencer Changing Lives of Colombia’s Street Sellers

Camilo Cifuentes, a Colombian influencer dedicated to altruistic work, has transformed the lives of numerous street sellers in Manizales, Colombia. Through his social media platforms, he has moved thousands of internet users by showcasing the daily lives of many Colombians who work on the streets to support their families. His content, full of empathy and generosity, has not only had a social impact but has also sparked a wave of inspiration among other digital creators.

Who is the Colombian influencer Camilo Cifuentes?

Camilo Cifuentes is one of the most beloved content creators in Colombia, thanks to his social awareness and close connection with the community. He began his journey on social media around three years ago by sharing humorous videos. However, over time, he decided to use his digital platforms for something greater: helping street vendors and people in vulnerable situations.

What makes his work truly unique is that Cifuentes never shows his face. His videos, recorded anonymously, show him buying everything a street seller has to offer—often paying more than the actual value of the goods. In some cases, if he buys food, he distributes it to people living on the streets. With each gesture, he brings joy not only to those he helps but also to his followers.

In one of his most viral videos, which accumulated over 28 million views on TikTok, Cifuentes asks a young seller for 20 of her homemade desserts. While the young girl explains that she needs to prepare more because she doesn’t have enough, Cifuentes offers to pay immediately: Instead of 160,000 COP (approximately $36), he offers her 400,000 COP (approximately $91), causing her to cry with emotion. Later, he gives her another million pesos (approximately $227) so she can invest in her small business.

@camilocifuentes96 Repartiendo fresitas con crema en la calle. Su TikTok @Ojo Dulce🍓 #paratii #foryoupage #videoviral ♬ sonido original – Camilo Cifuentes

One cannot appreciate the influencer’s kindness without putting into perspective the precarious situation of many Colombians. In Colombia, around 50% of the workforce works in the informal sector, many of whom are independent street workers: delivery drivers, moto-taxi riders, street vendors, recyclers, and car washers.

In a country where the minimum wage is set at 1,423,500 COP (337 dollars), the amount of donations made by Cifuentes, which may seem trivial to North Americans or Europeans, is a true fortune.

His impact online and in real life

According to Cifuentes, the real protagonists of his stories are the people he helps. That’s why he avoids appearing on camera, choosing to stay away from the spotlight and the negative aspects of fame. His motivation stems from values instilled in him by his family, who taught him that “it is better to give than to receive.”

The content creator first gained popularity on TikTok, where he now has over 4 million followers. His content later went viral on Instagram, where he has more than 1 million followers. Although he has given a few interviews, he always insists that his face not be shown, maintaining anonymity as a core part of his digital identity.

Beyond the numbers, the true value of Cifuentes lies in the example he sets. Thanks to his actions, he has inspired other content creators who now replicate his format, also helping people in need.

Cifuentes doesn’t work alone. He is supported by a team made up of his mother, brother, and girlfriend, who actively participate in the creation of his videos and in the social work he carries out. His content doesn’t follow a script—he prefers to act spontaneously, walking the streets in search of people he can help, making each encounter with a street vendor genuine and authentic.

@camilocifuentes96 “La recompensa la recibimos arriba” 🥺🫶🏽 #parati #foryou #videoviral ♬ original sound – Camilo Cifuentes