TikTokCelebrating African Flavors: Lerato Mphahlele's Authentic Approach to Promoting African Identity on TikTok
Lerato Mphahlele’s mouthwatering recipes and vibrant content captivate audiences worldwide. Her unexpected journey into content creation during the COVID-19 pandemic has sparked a passion for showcasing African cuisine and culture. Her authentic approach and dedication to promoting African identity have made her a rising star on TikTok.
Please tell us about your background and why you became a creator.
As a professional Quantity Surveyor running my own consulting practice, I unexpectedly discovered my passion for content creation during the hard lockdown amid the COVID-19 pandemic. I started recording content out of sheer boredom, but little did I know that people would find my relatable recipes and lifestyle content engaging.
How has TikTok influenced your creativity and connection with your audience?
TikTok's authentic platform has significantly boosted my creativity and allowed me to connect more genuinely with my audience. It encourages me to be my true self, fostering a stronger sense of community.
How do you celebrate Africa Day, and what does it mean to you?
As a food and lifestyle creator, I celebrate Africa Day by sharing mouthwatering African recipes that showcase our continent's delicious and bold flavours. Africa Day holds deep significance to me as a time to honour and appreciate our rich cultural heritage.
How do you incorporate African culture and influences into your TikTok content?
I enjoy sharing easy-to-follow African recipes on TikTok, and I've found that they always resonate well with my audience. Through my content, I aim to highlight the diversity and beauty of African cuisine.
What impact do you hope to make on the lives of the youth as a TikTok creator?
As a TikTok creator, I aspire to inspire the youth and show them that it is possible to achieve their dreams. Coming from a small village in Limpopo, South Africa, I have defied many odds to reach where I am today. I want to instill hope and empower young individuals to rise above challenges and pursue their passions.
What role does music, particularly Afrobeats, play in inspiring and influencing your creativity?
African music's vibrant energy fuels my creativity and inspires me to create content that genuinely reflects our continent. I often incorporate music, especially Afrobeats, in my travel and lifestyle videos to add an extra dose of authenticity and joy.
Is there a memorable moment or interaction you've had with your TikTok community related to African culture or Africa Day that you can share?
Absolutely! One of my most memorable moments was when I shared a tutorial on making "Pap," a mielie meal starch dish. The diverse cultures in South Africa and across Africa prepare it differently, and my audience always provides valuable insights and feedback, sometimes critiquing my methods for needing to be more authentic to their cultural practices.
How does TikTok contribute to preserving and promoting African traditions, music, and culture?
TikTok stands out as a platform that embraces authenticity and allows creators to freely express themselves in their native languages, showcasing their food, lifestyles, and culture without filters. This unique feature promotes the preservation and promotion of African traditions, music, and culture on a global scale.
What role does your content on TikTok play in contributing to a global conversation about Africa's vibrant culture?
Through my TikTok platform, I educate people about preparing simple and delicious African meals while promoting travel within South Africa. By sharing the beauty and diversity of Africa's culture, I aim to contribute to the global conversation and break stereotypes.
How do you envision the future of African creators on TikTok?
I envision African creators being empowered to share their unique perspectives through various art forms, music, dance, travel, food, and conversations. TikTok provides an inclusive space where African creators can shine and showcase the beauty of our continent.
What does it mean to be African?
Being African means being part of a rich cultural tapestry that celebrates diversity. It makes me feel dynamic and proud to belong to a continent with thousands of unique cultures.
How can we celebrate African identity without relying on stereotypes or cultural appropriation?
To celebrate African identity authentically, we must embrace our true selves and showcase the multifaceted aspects of Africa beyond stereotypes. We can promote a more accurate and respectful portrayal of Africa by highlighting positive stories and diverse traditions.
What message do you have for the African youth on Africa Day?
My message to the African youth on Africa Day is to embrace and celebrate the beauty and diversity of our continent in a way that resonates with them personally. Each individual has the power to contribute to Africa's growth and showcase its vibrant culture.
What are some of the challenges and successes you have faced as a content creator in Africa?
As an African content creator, one of the challenges I've faced is gaining recognition and representation in the industry. However, I have also achieved significant successes, including collaborating with renowned brands such as Tabasco Brand, Kerry Gold Butter, and Gordon Ramsay to create content that resonates with the African audience.
What are some of the most important values or messages associated with Africa Day that you would like to promote?
Africa Day represents the embodiment of cultural diversity and should be celebrated by highlighting the various traditions and cultures through art, music, dance, travel, food, conversations, and more. It's about showcasing the richness of our heritage and fostering unity.
Lerato, with her delectable recipes and genuine passion for African cuisine, is making a significant impact on TikTok's global community. Through her content, she showcases the beauty and diversity of African culture while empowering the youth to pursue their dreams.
