Influencer Bernice Nunah lights up New York's Times Square billboard, sparking online debate

Kenyan model and content creator Bernice Nunah, has set social media abuzz after posting her reaction to seeing herself on a digital billboard in New York’s Times Square. 

In the clip, Nunah’s amazement and emotions are obvious, she pauses and gestures excitedly, and celebrates the surreal moment of spotting her own image on the billboard.

The video quickly went viral, drawing congratulatory messages from fans who praised her for achieving international visibility.

Not everyone, however, interpreted the moment the same way. Some viewers were quick to note that the Times Square appearance resulted from a paid advertisement campaign, prompting debate in the comments about authenticity.

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A post shared by Bernice Nunah (@bernice.nunah)

While some defended Nunah, arguing that buying a billboard still requires heavy investment, others felt the distinction mattered when influencers present milestones to such a wide audience.

@Linus Juma, commented, “proud of you”, @WilliamMorumbe, said, “congratulations”, but @Breanna Mwa Ngïh, asked, “Mi hushangaa ukiekwa Kwa billboard....then? and @Kimotho Tha Captain, insisted that, “She paid to be featured”

Nunah, has built a strong following through lifestyle and entertainment content and her reaction video elicited her followers because Time Square Billboard, is famed for its massive digital displays, which is a common destination for brands and personalities seeking broad, high-profile exposure. 

For influencers, securing space there, can serve as a strategic move to boost visibility, partnership, brand deals and even monetization.

Times Square, long known as the "Crossroads of the World", remains the globe’s premier stage for monumental outdoor advertising. 

Its towering billboards have featured legendary figures like Serena Williams for HP while spotlighting rising stars from diverse backgrounds, including Mrs. China USA, Rachel Song to now a Kenyan model, Bernice Nunah. 

Over the decades, these vibrant displays have celebrated cultural moments, launched careers, and kept Times Square at the heart of global publicity and pop culture.