TikTok
TikTok creators around the world create a positive impact on and beyond the platform. We see this every day through videos from heartwarming heroes like Barbara Costello (@brunchwithbabs) who inspire us with judgment-free advice, to modern educators such as Luke Springer (@iam.mrluke) whose engaging approach to teaching brings together creativity and authenticity, as well as vibrant personalities like Arthur Baucheron (@arthurbaucheron) who show us that life is not limited by physical conditions, and sustainability champions such as Zolia Isabel Rondon Rodas (@meninadasvassouras) who share creative eco-friendly solutions to everyday problems.
Building on our ongoing commitment to foster a global community who is passionate about using #TikTokforGood, we're honored to introduce the TikTok Change Makers Program, our first-ever global social impact creator elevation program that spotlights creators and non-profits who create meaningful change in their communities through TikTok. Throughout this 6-month program, we will support these creators to build engaged communities, reach new audiences, and unlock real-world opportunities through dedicated tools, resources, and donations to designated non-profit organizations, which will allow them to drive an even greater impact around their causes.
Introducing the TikTok Change Makers
To officially launch this program, we are celebrating and unveiling our inaugural global list of TikTok Change Makers, comprising 50 purpose-driven creators from around the world. Whether it's spreading positivity or sharing good deeds, these Change Makers continue to advocate, inspire, and educate their communities to drive collective change on TikTok and beyond.
Meet the TikTok Change Makers from Sub-Saharan Africa and learn more about their incredible journeys. Click here to get to know more about the Change Makers from all over the globe.
Charity Ekezie (@charityekezie), Nigeria
Charity Ekezie knows that the general population outside of her home continent doesn't know much about Africa, other than stereotypes seen on TV and film. She uses her platform to (sarcastically) dispel rumors and myths about what life is like in Africa.
Dr. Siyamak Saleh (@doctor.siya), South Africa
Dr. Siyamak Saleh is a medical professional and multi-award-winning content creator, renowned for his expertise in reproductive and sexual health education. He impacts global public health as a consultant for the World Health Organization (WHO) and through his influential TikTok channel. By debunking myths and providing evidence-based health information, he empowers a global audience to make informed health decisions.
Dennis Ombachi (@TheRoamingChef), Kenya
A former rugby sevens international player, Ombachi reinvented himself to become a social media star with a global fan base in just a few years. After an injury forced him to retire, Dennis’s depression became more severe and in 2018 he was diagnosed with bipolar disorder. Dennis turned to cooking to keep him sane and during the pandemic, he turned his full attention to creating cooking content. He says his secret is to keep them “short and snappy” and in 2022, he received the TikTok Award for Best African Content Creator.
Melissa (@dpilot_onthegram), South Africa
Melissa is a trailblazing South African pilot and creator known for her engaging aviation videos on TikTok. As the first in her nation to be verified on the platform, she’s committed to inspiring future pilots and aviators - especially women - to challenge stereotypes in the industry. Her passion for flight and mentorship shines through her content, encouraging others to soar to new heights.
Championing causes with non-profit organizations through the TikTok Change Makers Grant
As a platform that celebrates creativity and authentic expression, TikTok brings together creators, non-profit organizations and businesses with a shared vision to rally support, raise awareness and funds for causes that matter. We've also seen over 50,000 posts under the #TikTokforGood hashtag, showcasing the strength and impact of a community that's keen to drive meaningful change and unlock real-world impact.
As we continue forging meaningful partnerships between creators and non-profit organizations, we are also introducing the TikTok Change Makers Grant as an integral part of the TikTok Change Makers program. Through this Grant, we are donating over $1 million to over 30 global and local non-profit organizations supporting a variety of important causes, making a $25,000 direct donation in honor of every Change Maker to support their respective advocacies while elevating the impact of their work.
"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, TikTok.
“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 from Nigeria
"I leverage TikTok to create fun and engaging content that not only raises awareness about sexual and reproductive health, but also debunks the most common myths with evidence-based information. This approach empowers a global audience to make informed health decisions, promoting well-being worldwide and bridging gaps in sex education.” said Dr Siyamak Saleh from South Africa
"We are pleased to work with TikTok and content creators worldwide on the TikTok Change Makers Program. By leveraging our combined strengths, we can broaden our reach to communities globally, impacting health and other important issues affecting people. This program enables us to connect with wider audiences, encouraging creativity for meaningful advocacy and health communication," said Dr. Alain Labrique, Director, Department of Digital Health and Innovation, World Health Organization (WHO).
“At Paradigm Initiative, we are constantly looking to explore creative ways to communicate the great work we do to protect and promote digital rights and inclusion in Africa. We strongly believe that this opportunity brings life to that aspiration. We are looking forward to working with Charity in the coming months to reach new audiences and to communicate key messages to this demography of TikTok audiences”. “We appreciate TikTok for this partnership and look forward to continue to work together with TikTok and other platforms of expression to advance digital rights and inclusion objectives in Africa and the rest of the world” said Adeboye Adegoke, Senior Manager, Grants & Programs Strategy, Paradigm Initiative
“We are thrilled to announce our partnership with Dennis Ombachi and TikTok to amplify children's voices across Africa. This collaboration will ensure that the perspectives of African children on crucial issues such as Climate Change, Education, and Digital Wellbeing are heard loud and clear. Together, we are committed to empowering the next generation and ensuring their voices make a difference,” said Jennifer Kaberi, CEO of Mtoto News.
Harnessing #TikTokforGood with the Change Makers
Through the TikTok Change Makers Program, we aim to showcase the diverse voices and the strength of our global community as they educate, advocate and inspire their communities to drive meaningful, positive and lasting change.
Learn more about how you can help make real change happen by checking out your local content hub, which will feature inspiring programming and impactful stories over the next six months. Join your fellow Change Makers by championing everyday good using #TikTokforGood, starting today!
