TikTokWhether it's through originating world trends, or creating cultural movements like #HillmanTok University that redefine online education, the #BlackTikTok community continues to elevate, preserve and celebrate the influence of Black culture. Black creativity knows no bounds, and for Black History Month 2025, we're proud to celebrate the visionary #BlackTikTok creators, entrepreneurs, and voices who continue to inspire and shape our platform for the better.
We're kicking off our Black History Month celebration, with a spotlight on Black voices to watch, alongside the announcement of our 2025 SOAR Together business accelerator program with Black Girl Ventures, an in-app #BlackTikTok programming hub, in-person events, and more.
2025 #BlackTikTok Voices to Watch
There is a wealth of Black creators who are championing communities, breaking boundaries, and uplifting others both on and off of TikTok. This year, we are looking to the future with a special spotlight on industry-shifting Black creators, community voices and business owners who are making waves on Tiktok and beyond. Read about the voices driving historical impact in healthcare, education, entertainment, beauty, food and more:
@afamstudies - Dr. Leah Barlow is an Assistant Professor at North Carolina A&T State University who has redefined online education through her TikTok account. What started as a way to engage her African-American Studies class has grown into a movement, with over 550,000 followers in just one week. Dr. Barlow’s platform provides a critical voice in a time when African American history faces threats from book bans, inspiring educators to share syllabi, coursework, study guides, and key concepts across disciplines.
@golloria - Golloria George is a beauty content creator who champions inclusivity within the beauty industry. Recently named to Forbes’ 30 Under 30 list for social media, Golloria uses her platform to amplify voices, recognize product inclusivity, and advocate for better representation in the beauty industry. Her advocacy for inclusivity has made a significant impact on the beauty industry, earning her widespread recognition.
@nicolebloomgarden - Nicole Bloomgarden is a lifestyle content creator spreading awareness about the LGBTQ+ community through her engaging and insightful videos. She uses TikTok as a platform to foster understanding, break barriers, and bring visibility to important conversations.
@thelaybankz - Lay Bankz is an indie rap artist whose track “Tell Your Girlfriend” and “#3 Song of the Year” took TikTok by storm in 2024. Nominated for XXL’s Freshman Class, Lay continues to build her fanbase independently. She has cultivated a supportive following through her content on TikTok.
@xeviuniverse - Xevi is a TikTok creator known for his unconventional approach to sharing current and historical events. His unique take on news coverage has earned him recognition and a growing following, as he blends social commentary with storytelling in a way that captivates and engages his audience.
@laveganbaddie - Shanique Morris is a Montréal-based business owner who curates and sells vintage finds through her TikTok account. She creates engaging content showcasing her products, while also collaborating with local creatives for photoshoots and fostering a supportive community around sustainable fashion.
@hassanphills - Hassan Phills is a rising comedian known for his sharp wit and blend of humor with social commentary. Based in Toronto, he uses TikTok to engage audiences with thought-provoking comedy, which resonates with diverse groups both on stage and through his digital content.
@dontecolley - Donté Colley is a dancer, choreographer, and creator from Toronto. His infectious energy and uplifting messages combine dance with a mission to spread joy and inclusivity, making him a beloved figure in the TikTok community.
@cocoaasante - Cocoa Asante is a Black-owned and women-owned artisan chocolate company, handcrafting ethically sourced chocolates from Ghana. Since joining TikTok, the brand has seen significant growth, moving to a larger space and expanding its loyal customer base. After a viral Keith Lee review, she surpassed $100K in sales in less than two weeks and quit her job as a teacher to focus on growing her company.
@lashaygreenwood - LaShay Greenwood is a former teacher turned entrepreneur who launched her side hustle, The Mane Attraction, on TikTok, and quickly gained 1 million followers. With the support of her community, she quit her teaching job to pursue her passion full-time, building a successful business – empowering others to take the leap.
@sooslick - SooSlick, founded by Nigerian immigrant Elizabeth Adeoye, is a Black-owned fashion brand specializing in body sculpting clothing and shapewear. Since joining TikTok, SooSlick has achieved over 200 million views, 40K orders, and $1 million in sales, establishing a strong online presence through TikTok Shop.
@smard.art - Sylvine Maliko is a Montréal-based artist who uses her platform to celebrate and honor the diversity and resilience of Black culture. She has gained widespread recognition for her artwork and last year announced on TikTok her artwork to be made available at HomeGoods. Her content showcases the richness of the Black community through art, making a powerful statement about representation in the art world.
@thesatindiaries - The Satin Diaries, created by Mar Tut, is a beauty brand offering luxury hair accessories designed to enhance hair care routines. Handcrafted in Toronto, each piece combines style and functionality, promoting healthy haircare practices while offering high-quality, elegant products for everyday use.
Celebrating Black Voices on TikTok and beyond
Throughout February and beyond, we're celebrating the boundless creativity of #BlackTikTok through a series of in-app initiatives, IRL events, and programming across our #BlackTikTok in-app hub. Within the TikTok app, and on @tiktokcreators, we're spotlighting voices and Black-owned businesses from across the #BlackTikTok community. This month's programming will also include a special #ShopBlackOwned series, amplifying Black-owned brands who thrive on TikTok Shop. We'll also be taking our #BlackTikTok celebrations offline with IRL event moments and community experiences around the U.S.
Black Girl Ventures: SOAR Together Black-owned Business Accelerator Program on TikTok Shop
Last year, we announced an investment of $1 million to support the important work of nonprofit Black Girl Ventures to increase access to financial and social capital for Black and Brown entrepreneurs. As a part of our continued commitment and investment in the Black community, we are excited to announce 2025 SOAR Together, a Black-owned business accelerator program developed to help grow their businesses on TikTok Shop, in collaboration with Black Girl Ventures. For this year's accelerator program, we will select 20 businesses to participate in a 6-week program, which includes access to educational courses, plus business coaching and mentorship from celebrated guest speakers. Following completion of the program, businesses will be invited to convene for a special in-person graduation ceremony.
#ShopBlackOwned on TikTok Shop
TikTok Shop will feature a special #ShopBlackOwned campaign to elevate Black-owned brands and Black creators, widening their exposure and enabling them to reach their next big customer. This month's #ShopBlackOwned series will include product highlights in the TikTok Shop tab, in-app livestream shopping sessions highlighting Black-owned brands, as well as a documentary-style showcase that will spotlight breakout success stories across our community of diverse Black-owned small and medium-sized businesses.
Spotlighting the stories of TikTok's Visionary BLXCK Community
As part of our company-wide Black History Month celebration, our internal employee resource group (ERG) BLXCK will continue to amplify Black excellence and self-empowerment with curated sessions centered around mindfulness, and in-office celebrations that highlight the diaspora of Black heritage. These programs serve as an extension of the inclusive culture built to support our #BlackTikTok employees within and outside of the office.
@BlackTikTok - Follow the Community
We're committed to honoring and celebrating the excellence that is #BlackTikTok this month and all year round. Be sure to follow @TikTokCreators, and @TikTok to stay up-to-date on our Black History Month programming and trendsetting #BlackTikTok community.
