You might remember the infectious laughter and entertaining antics of TIMOTHY ‘JAYDEN’ KAYANJA, 24, from last year’s festive season, when his TikTok video took the internet by storm and made him an overnight sensation.
However, there is more to this TikTokker than just his viral fame. With a passion for storytelling and knack for engaging content, he has carved out a niche for himself as a content creator and journalist.
In this exclusive Quick Talk interview, we sit down with Jayden to explore his journey, insights and what’s next for this talented individual.
Please tell Quick Talk more about yourself, Jayden…
My real name is Timothy Kayanja, although many people call me Jayden following my viral video dubbed “Jayden” [in the now-famous video that he recorded last December, Kayanja joked about the number of city children – all of whom he referred to as ‘Jayden’ – arriving for a village Christmas. The video started the trend of calling any spoilt child Jayden.]
I was born and raised in Namungoona, and I’ve always had a passion for media and storytelling. I recently graduated with a diploma in Journalism and Mass Communication from UMCAT.
What inspired that ‘Jayden’ video? You sounded really irked by the Christmas visitors!
[Laughs] Honestly, it was a completely spontaneous moment. I was just goofing around, trying to make my content as usual, because I had spent four years by then, posting on TikTok.
So, I posted it without thinking much of it. It’s the reaction that caught me completely off guard. I didn’t think it would go viral at all. At most, I thought, maybe a few friends would comment or share it.
When the notifications started blowing up, I was just in shock. Oh my God! I kept refreshing the page like, “Wait, what’s happening here?” [He dramatically puts his hands on top of his head]
What was the most unexpected reaction you received from fans after the video went viral?
Someone once stopped me in a supermarket and started acting out the video, word for word [yes, Ugandans really have time]. That level of memorization was wild and a bit humbling! Also, some people genuinely thought I was a young child, not an adult [Kayanja is small-statured].
True, there has been a debate on social media about your age. How old is this real-life Jayden?
I’ve seen all the guesses – from 10 to 20! [bursts into laughter]. I guess it’s because of my baby face! But to clear the air, I’m actually 24. You recently graduated.
How did your studies in Journalism at UMCAT prepare you for your current roles?
It actually gave me a solid foundation, understanding media ethics, learning how to communicate effectively, and most importantly, how to engage with an audience.
UMCAT helped turn my passion into a profession.
Quick Talk understands that you [earlier this year], became a TV host with Sanyuka TV. Are you still there?
Yes, I had a short stint there, and it was an amazing experience. It gave me exposure and taught me the pace of live TV. I moved on to explore other opportunities that gave me more creative freedom, especially on digital platforms.
Additionally, it wasn’t a job actually; but rather a one-time thing.
How do you balance everything you do?
[Besides TikTok, Kayanja has the occasional TV gig, and is often hosted on several YouTube channels]. Planning! I try to stay organized, and I always keep a content calendar.
Plus, I love what I do; so, even when it gets hectic, it never feels like a burden.
Who has been your favourite YouTuber or TikToker to collaborate with, and why?
That’s a tough one actually, but I would say Kasuku [Isaac Katende], because I have always admired how he does his stuff. For the TikTokers, I admire none, not because they are not good enough; however, there are those that are funny like Yash Popy and Mikey Seems Too Funny… these always make the content flow effortlessly.
Have you worked with any brands, and what was that experience like?
I’ve partnered with a few local and international brands. It’s exciting to bring creativity into advertising, turning promotions into something fun and relatable.
But I’m careful to only work with brands that align with my values.
What is the most memorable moment you have had while appearing on someone else’s platform?
Appearing on BBS TV, Sanyuka TV and Spark TV were unforgettable [what Gen Zs call amansanyalaze]. The hosts surprised me with clips from my content; I almost cried and laughed at the same time and it was a good experience.
How do you handle the pressure of staying relevant in the fast-paced digital world of social media?
I just focus on authenticity. Trends come and go, but being yourself never goes out of style. I also stay curious and keep experimenting with new formats and ideas.
Where do you see your career heading in the next five years— more TV, TikTok, or something new?
Aaah. I see myself doing a bit of everything; hosting my own show, maybe producing content behind the scenes, and growing my digital platforms. I also want to mentor upcoming content creators.
If you could go back and give your younger self advice before the “Jayden” video, what would you say?
I would say, “Stay grounded, enjoy the ride, and never let fear stop you from creating. You’re capable of more than you think.”
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