March 29th: Today’s Feature

March

Emmanuel 'Big Manny’ Wallace, a 26-year-old content creator with a strong educational background in Biomedical Science, has undeniably established himself as a prominent figure during the lockdown period. With both a BSc and M.Sc. degree under his belt, he has become a household name by skilfully producing scientific-based content that has proven to be invaluable for numerous school students worldwide.

His influence extends far beyond the shores of Britain, as he has managed to amass a devoted following on various social media platforms. Through his engaging and informative content, Big Manny has captivated the attention of individuals from all walks of life, transcending geographical boundaries. His ability to simplify complex scientific concepts and present them in an accessible manner has made him a go-to resource for students seeking clarity and understanding.

By leveraging his expertise in Biomedical Science, Big Manny has successfully carved out a niche for himself in the digital realm. His dedication to creating content that is both educational and entertaining has earned him the admiration and respect of his followers. As a result, he has become a trusted source of knowledge, providing a much-needed resource for students navigating the challenges of remote learning during the lockdown.

Emanuel Wallace, also known as Big Manny, has managed to bridge the gap between the laboratory and the average person's backyard, captivating audiences with his relatable and accessible approach to chemistry. In a surprising turn of events, one of his videos showcasing the creation of an alloy using sodium and potassium has garnered an astounding 3.5 million views in less than four months. This achievement not only highlights the growing popularity of his content but also emphasises the impact he has had on educating millions of fans about the fundamental theories of chemistry.

The overwhelming response from his followers further demonstrates the effectiveness of his teaching style. One follower expressed their appreciation by stating, "I would've found science much more enjoyable if it had been taught in this manner." This sentiment is echoed by many others who have been captivated by Big Manny's ability to make complex scientific concepts relatable and engaging. By bringing chemistry out of the confines of the laboratory and into everyday settings like the backyard, he has successfully made the subject more approachable for a wider audience.

Through his videos, Big Manny has not only made chemistry trendy but has also sparked a newfound interest in the subject. His ability to break down complex theories into easily digestible content has resonated with viewers, allowing them to grasp the intricacies of chemistry in a way that traditional teaching methods may have failed to achieve. By making chemistry relatable and accessible, he has managed to bridge the gap between scientific knowledge and the general public, inspiring a new generation of science enthusiasts.

The process of producing a single 60-second clip can vary in duration, typically taking anywhere from two to four hours to complete, depending on the nature of the experiment being showcased. These clips are predominantly filmed in Wallace's own back garden, providing a familiar and accessible backdrop for viewers. Wallace's primary focus is to ensure that the content of the videos is not only engaging but also educational, aligning with England's national curriculum. While some experiments mirror those conducted in schools, a significant portion of the content is designed to be entertaining and engaging for viewers of all ages.

Wallace's approach to creating content is characterised by a conversational and light-hearted tone, aimed at making complex scientific concepts more approachable for his audience. By covering key topics such as exothermic reactions and chromatography in a simple and engaging manner, Wallace strives to make science more accessible and enjoyable for his viewers. He intentionally avoids using overly technical language, opting instead for clear and straightforward explanations to ensure that the information presented is easily understood by a wide range of viewers.

Big Manny's unique charm lies in his use of slang, which is an integral part of his persona. His East London Street accent, coupled with Jamaican patois, enables him to establish a strong rapport with children who might otherwise be hesitant to engage in scientific discussions. By embracing his distinctive linguistic style, Big Manny breaks down stereotypes and challenges preconceived notions. Unfortunately, he often faces criticism from individuals who mistakenly associate his accent with a lack of knowledge or expertise. However, Wallace, acknowledging the power of language, asserts that one's manner of speaking does not determine their intelligence. In fact, he attributes a portion of his own success to his ability to communicate with people in an informal and relatable manner.

Wallace's dedication and hard work are truly paying off as he continues to inspire and educate people through his science-related content. His impact is evident through the messages he receives from individuals who credit him for helping them with their studies and motivating them to pursue a career in science. The satisfaction he gains from knowing that he is making a difference in people's lives is the driving force behind his work.

As Wallace's influence grows, he has been able to collaborate with various brands, such as BMW, to explain the science behind their products and technologies. He believes in the importance of making science accessible by breaking down complex concepts into everyday language and relating them to real-life situations. In addition to educating his audience, Wallace prioritises safety by demonstrating experiments with proper protective gear and cautioning against attempting them at home. His emphasis on safety and expertise underscores his commitment to responsible science communication and ensures that his followers understand the risks involved in scientific experimentation.

Big Manny's videos have achieved remarkable success, attracting a staggering 3 million followers from around the globe. Such popularity has elevated him to a level where he is now recognised on the streets, with people approaching him and asking, "Are you the science guy from TikTok?" This level of recognition is a testament to the impact and reach of his content.

Among his notable achievements, Big Manny has had the opportunity to appear on the renowned children's TV show, Blue Peter. This experience holds a special place in his heart. However, one particular moment that stands out for him is his collaboration with Oxford University Press. The prestigious institution approached him to help promote their new science textbooks. This collaboration brought him immense joy as he had personally learned from their textbooks during his school days. It was a full-circle moment for him, being able to contribute to the same educational resources that had shaped his own understanding of science.

Currently, Big Manny is dedicated to expanding his content by creating longer-form chemistry videos. His goal is to delve deeper into scientific concepts and provide his audience with a more comprehensive understanding of the subject. Additionally, he harbours ambitions of hosting his own science documentary series on television, where he can further explore and showcase the wonders of science.

In addition to his scientific pursuits, Big Manny is also a talented musical artist. He produces songs that not only serve as an additional medium for his fans to engage with science but also offer a glimpse into his personal life. This multifaceted approach allows him to connect with his audience on various levels, making science accessible and relatable to people from all walks of life.

Remarkably, Big Manny's impact extends beyond school children. His videos have resonated with older individuals who had studied chemistry during their school days but never fully grasped the subject. Many of them express that watching his videos has significantly enhanced their understanding of chemistry. Even parents have shared that their young children, some as young as four years old, are captivated by his content. Big Manny's ability to cater to such a diverse audience demonstrates that there is something for everyone in his videos, making science accessible and enjoyable for all.