A network of like-minded individuals is certainly necessary to achieve a steady income.
I personally think that the contrast is more interesting. On my first month on Steemit I discovered two postings (intoduceyourself) of african guys with the intent to report from their daily lives. I was fascinated by this and therefore I see great value here as well.
Unfortunately, I am still waiting for their contributions.
RE: Steemit vs. global wage gap [en]