Joshua Hatchett, or more commonly known by his social media username, actjoshh, is a neurodivergent 20-year-old who is growing his impressive social media following day by day.
Originally from Romford, Joshua currently travels and lives between Brentwood and Upminster, where his mother lives.
Joshua’s social media journey began in Covid lockdown where he posted one spontaneous TikTok video which has since developed into an army of 239,000 followers and 20 million combined likes on his posts on the platform.
“I started in lockdown because I was pretty bored, I didn’t expect it to kick off like it did but I just carried on from there,” Joshua told the Recorder.
“My audience grew pretty naturally. I didn’t have to do specific things.”
He also has more than 18,000 followers on Instagram.
“I post a lot of stuff about autism awareness. I post going to events, a bit of everything really. I like posting about going to events.
“I strive to create a space where people feel understood, empowered, and inspired to embrace their authentic selves.
“When I was growing up, I felt like I didn’t fit in. It’s been hard for me and I want to inspire others and make it easier for others.”
He says his social media activity “can be quite stressful at times” but that he has had messages from people to say he has helped them.
“It really encourages me to want to do more.”
Joshua was awarded for the best Instagram account under 10,000 followers at the UK Top Influencer Awards 2024 (pictured with reality star Georgia Harrison) (Image: Joshua Hatchett) In April last year, Joshua won a UK Top Influencer Award for the best Instagram account with under 10k followers – which he has since grown by another 8,000.
One of the most popular videos on Joshua’s TikTok involves him surprising his mum, Zoe Hatchett, with a Christmas hamper and £1,000 in cash last December.
“I saved up to thank her for being my rock and biggest supporter. Her reaction was priceless, and it’s a moment that has stayed with me, reminding me why family and gratitude are at the heart of everything I do”, Joshua said.
“I wanted to give back to her near the end of 2024 as this was my most successful period. Towards the end of the year I was being offered paid brand deals.”
@actjoshh Surprising my mum with £1000❤️ #mum #surprise ♬ original sound – xavier
He says he is now working with Universal Music and doing campaigns with the company on his Instagram.
Joshua explained that he had very few friends during secondary school and college which meant he had less judgement when starting to create content.
“Obviously everybody always has an opinion on social media but thankfully I always have more nice comments than hate comments.
“I am just taking the journey as it comes but of course I want to take this further.
“I’m not bothered about the number of followers I hit, I don’t think that’s really important.
“I enjoy doing this as my work and I enjoy spreading positivity the most. That’s what’s important.
“I did get bullied in school so to get to where I am now is a big achievement for me.”
“My advice would be to just start. It’s natural to feel apprehensive at first but the most important thing is to take that first step.
“Remember, your voice matters, and your perspective is unique. Whether you’re neurodivergent or not, there’s an audience out there who will connect with your authenticity.
“Don’t compare yourself to others or aim for perfection right away, focus on sharing what you’re passionate about and being yourself.
“It’s okay to make mistakes. That’s how we learn, and if you’re worried about judgment, just know that the people who genuinely resonate with you will support you.”
He also noted the importance of setting small and achievable goals such as posting once a week to begin with.
“Most importantly, have fun with it and be proud of every step you take.”
