Fanum world

Abstract

Social media is changing the way celebrities communicate and connect with their fans, and for fans to form communities. However, an intense common identity and anonymity can also fuel toxic behaviours or even online abuse, and this can have a detrimental effect on young people involved in fandom.

Hence, Fanum World is an online interactive story project aimed at pre-teens (9-12 years old) who are entering into the world of fandom, and intends to demonstrate the dangers of toxicity among fans and to model positive fan behaviour. Through elements of interactivity, engaging visuals and interesting characters, Fanum World hopes to provide a meaningful and fun, yet effective way to introduce and teach pre-teens the cause and impact of toxicity within fandom.

Some of the topics explored in this project include the superficial beauty standards set by the pop idol industry, and how that affects fans and stars alike.