Maria Ntumba isn’t your average influencer. In a world where partnerships can sometimes feel like a free-for-all, this young creator stands out by treating every collaboration as a carefully crafted choice.
Known for her authenticity and tight-knit bond with her followers, Maria opens up about the thoughtful process behind her brand deals—a process rooted in ethics, quality, and trust.
For Maria, picking a collaboration is never a roll of the dice. “With my team, we strategically select my collaborations,” she says. It’s a team effort with a purpose: every potential partnership gets a close look. Her agents dive in first, vetting brands for credibility and making sure they vibe with her values. Then it’s Maria’s turn. When products arrive, she puts them through their paces.
“After I receive the brand’s products, I test them and, if they meet our expectations, then I can share them with my community,” she explains.
This isn’t just about quality control—it’s about keeping things real for her followers, affectionately dubbed her “Maria’s.” They know a recommendation from her isn’t just an ad; it’s something she believes in.
Maria’s approach isn’t just meticulous—it’s professional to the core. Every negotiation kicks off through a dedicated email, a system that keeps things clear and focused.
“Brands contact me directly via this email, and from there we start the collaboration,” she shares.
It’s a simple but effective setup that cuts through the noise, letting her prioritize what matters: creating top-notch content and teaming up with brands she can stand behind. This transparency builds partnerships that last, grounded in mutual respect.
That dedication has paid off in a big way. Maria’s resume boasts names like Fenty Beauty—yes, Rihanna’s game-changing brand—alongside Sephora France, Pull&Bear, and Jennifer. These aren’t just logos on a list; they’re proof she’s playing at the top level while staying true to herself. Each collaboration reflects her knack for blending authenticity with influence, showing that you don’t have to sell out to succeed in the social media game.
Maria’s got wisdom to share, especially for those just starting out.
“To new influencers, I would advise taking the time to truly understand the principles and reliability of the brand with which they will collaborate,” she suggests.
It’s practical but profound: figure out who you are, and let that guide who you work with. In a space where flashy deals can tempt anyone, Maria’s advice is a reality check—build something real, not just something that looks good on camera. It’s how she’s carved out her own path, steering clear of the fakery that often gets called out in the influencer world.
Maria Ntumba is more than an influencer—she’s part of a shift. With a mix of strategy, honesty, and a firm no to anything she doesn’t trust, she’s helping rewrite what partnerships can look like. Her story shows you can make it big online without losing your soul.
For Maria, every deal is a chance to deepen the trust she’s built with her “Maria’s” and to keep growing in a digital world that never sits still. She’s not just collaborating; she’s setting a standard.