Brandon B on WAVES 2025: How AI Will Democratize Storytelling and Empower the Next Generation of Creators

WAVES 2025: YouTuber Brandon B on How AI Will Amplify Creators

Brandon B, a YouTube creator with over 15.8 million subscribers, recently spoke about the future of creativity and AI at WAVES 2025 in Mumbai. The event, inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi at the Jio World Centre, brought forward fresh ideas on how AI tools will open new doors for storytellers worldwide.

At just 25, Brandon Baum (known online as Brandon B) has spent over half his life mastering visual effects (VFX). Starting at age 12, he taught himself After Effects and has since grown into a leading voice in digital storytelling. Now in Mumbai for the inaugural World Audio Visual and Entertainment Summit (WAVES), he joined a panel discussing how AI is reshaping the creator economy.

Using AI to Enhance Creativity, Not Replace It

When asked if AI threatens his job, Brandon’s answer was measured. “Maybe at some point over the next century,” he said, “but for now, AI is an amplifier.” He believes AI will lower the technical barriers that have traditionally kept many talented storytellers out of the game. Instead of mastering complex software or investing in expensive hardware, billions will have access to powerful creative tools.

This democratization will let new voices emerge from everywhere—not just traditional creative hubs. “The greatest storytellers will come from all across the globe,” Brandon predicts.

Why Technical Skills Still Matter

Brandon doesn’t see AI as a threat to craftsmanship. The deep technical knowledge behind VFX taught him composition, framing, and visual storytelling at a granular level. “These skills will evolve but won’t disappear,” he says. Future filmmakers who dive into technical details will still gain an edge, but the skills won’t be mandatory for everyone.

Storytelling Over Spectacle

For Brandon, the story is always the starting point. Before any video is made, he asks: “If this wasn’t a video, would it work as a short story?” He warns that creators sometimes rely too much on flashy visuals, losing sight of the narrative. The upcoming wave of AI tools will make impressive visuals easier, but the real test will be the strength of the story.

Brandon believes the next decade will return storytelling to the center, with technology serving to elevate ideas rather than overshadow them.

From Self-Taught VFX to YouTube Success

Brandon’s journey began with a cracked copy of After Effects downloaded at age 12. He spent years learning through tutorials and uploading videos, even when views were scarce. After a stint in traditional TV, he realized YouTube was his true creative outlet. During the pandemic, he launched his own channels, building worlds and characters that now reach millions.

Understanding the Audience Over Algorithms

When it comes to content strategy, Brandon shares a valuable mindset: swap the word “algorithm” with “audience.” Instead of chasing platform mechanics, focus on what genuinely connects with viewers. This shift in perspective helps maintain authenticity and build lasting engagement.

Experiencing India Through Creativity

This is Brandon’s first trip to India. Besides participating in WAVES 2025, he plans to immerse himself in the local culture by filming at food markets and popular hotspots. “We want to shoot at least 10 videos here,” he says. Collaborating with local creators and absorbing new experiences will fuel his storytelling.

For creatives looking to stay ahead, Brandon’s approach offers practical insight: embrace AI not as a threat but as a tool, focus relentlessly on story quality, and keep audience connection at the forefront.

Learn more about how AI is impacting creativity at Creative Bloq.
Explore storytelling techniques in a digital landscape at New York Film Academy.