TikTok has officially introduced its inaugural global social impact initiative, the TikTok Change Makers Program. This groundbreaking program aims to highlight creators and non-profits making significant differences in their communities through the platform. The initiative is designed to support these individuals and organizations in building engaged communities, reaching wider audiences, and realizing real-world opportunities through dedicated tools, resources, and financial contributions.
Program Overview
– Duration: Six months
– Support: Provides selected creators with resources to build communities, reach new audiences, and unlock real-world opportunities.
– Grants: TikTok will donate over $1 million to more than 30 global and local non-profits. Each Change Maker will receive a $25,000 donation to support their advocacy work.
Selection Process
– Inaugural Cohort: The program celebrates 50 purpose-driven creators globally.
– Focus: These Change Makers are recognized for their efforts to advocate, inspire, and educate their communities on TikTok and beyond.
African Focus
Four African creators have been chosen as part of the TikTok Change Makers Program, including Charity Ekezie from Nigeria.
Charity Ekezie: A Nigerian Changemaker*
– Username: @charityekezie
– Advocacy: Charity dispels negative stereotypes about Africa and educates people about its true beauty and culture through her TikTok content.
– Partnership: She will collaborate with Paradigm Initiative, an NGO focused on empowering underserved young Africans with digital, life, and business skills while protecting their rights.
Charity’s Impact
“I use TikTok to dispel negative stereotypes about Africa and educate people about what an amazing place it is. I use my platform to not only entertain but spread awareness on the beauty of African culture and its people,” said Charity Ekezie.
Paradigm Initiative’s Perspective
“At Paradigm Initiative, we are constantly exploring creative ways to communicate our work in protecting and promoting digital rights and inclusion in Africa. This opportunity aligns perfectly with our goals. We look forward to working with Charity to reach new audiences and communicate key messages to the TikTok demographic,” said Adeboye Adegoke, Senior Manager of Grants & Programs Strategy at Paradigm Initiative.
Other African Change Makers
– Kenya: @theroamingchef, a self-taught chef and former rugby player known for his monosyllabic commentary “Done!”
– South Africa: @doctor.siya, who shares content on medical myths and sexual health.
– South Africa: @pilot_onthegram, the first South African pilot verified on TikTok, creates educational videos to inspire future pilots, especially women.
Program Goals
“The TikTok global community harnesses creative self-expression to drive positive impact by rallying support, raising awareness, and advocating for the causes they truly care about. We’re proud to launch the TikTok Change Makers Program to help social impact creators and non-profit organizations reach more communities, unlock real-world opportunities, and bring about lasting, meaningful change,” said Kim Farrell, Head of Creators at TikTok.
Get Involved
Over the next six months, TikTok will feature inspiring programming and impactful stories from the Change Makers. Join the movement by championing everyday good using #TikTokforGood.
To learn more about the Change Makers and their journeys, click [here](https://www.tiktok.com).
