As part of our continued committment to showcasing and celebrating Indigenous creators and stories year-round,  we recently announced the TikTok Accelerator for Indigenous Creators – a new online training program designed to empower storytellers to grow their TikTok presence and learn the necessary skills for on-platform success and beyond, presented by National Screen Institute. 

With applications received from 12 provinces and territories, thirty participants were chosen by an independent jury comprised of  screen industry professionals and Indigenous TikTok creators with input from TikTok Canada. Designed with traditional elements, the curriculum provides customized, skills-based education sessions, from navigating TikTok to technical training, career building and digital wellness. It also offers hands-on exercises and opportunities to connect with professional industry experts and peers. The program will begin with a sharing circle led by Elder Allen Sutherland and online classes start on November 8th. 

“We have so many untold stories that are waiting to be shared,” said program advisor Sherry Mckay. “Because there are teachings in each story, my hopes are that these creators will gain the technical skills and knowledge to not only tell their stories but inspire others to do so as well.”

The TikTok Accelerator for Indigenous Creators is hosted by advisor and Indigenous content creator Sherry Mckay (@sherry.mckay), advisor Justina Neepin (@justinaneepin), and program managers Sarah Simpson-Yellowquill and Cheyenne Bruneau. Under their guidance and expert knowledge from presenters such as Celina Myers (@celinaspookyboo), Brett Mooswa (@brettstoise), Jayroy Makokis (@jayroymakokis), Fawn Wood (@fawn.wood) and Duece Moto (@hoodoo_manystrikes), participants will each create a robust marketing plan and develop a series of videos to set them on the path to success. 

Congratulations to the program's first-ever participants, listed below. Read more about each participant here.