An up-and-coming comedian, Dave Browne, has described a recent encounter with popular YouTuber Niko Omilana as “life-changing” after the online star offered to fulfil Browne’s dream of performing in the United States.
In a video on Omilana’s NDL YouTube channel, the 26-year-old influencer challenged himself to travel from Brighton to Scotland without walking. During the challenge, Browne, 37, who lives in Haywards Heath, West Sussex, offered the use of his car. The comedian drove Omilana and his crew from Brighton to London and later to Nottingham.
While on the road, Browne shared his aspirations of performing stand-up comedy in the US and eventually selling out London’s O2 Arena. His dream came true when Omilana offered him an all-expenses-paid trip to perform at the New York Comedy Club alongside renowned comedian Akaash Singh.
“This was a life-changing moment for me,” Browne said. “I’ve been making YouTube videos for 14 years, and now, for the first time, they are getting comments.”
Since the video’s release, Browne’s YouTube channel, SmileyDaveUK, has seen a subscriber increase of over 600%, with the video itself garnering more than 800,000 views within 24 hours. Browne is optimistic about his future and aims to sell out the O2 Arena within five years.
Niko Omilana, who has over 10 million subscribers across his channels, is known for his viral stunts and even ran for London Mayor in 2021. His latest act of generosity is further cementing his influence on both the digital world and the lives of those he encounters.