TikTok is set to donate $1 million as grant to support 30 global and local non-profit organisations under its TikTok Change Makers Programme on the back of its commitment to foster a global community passionate about using #TikTokforGood.
As part of the TikTok Change Makers grant, each changemaker will receive a $25,000 direct donation to support their respective advocacies, to elevate the impact of their work within the community they serve.
The six-month programme will support selected creators from around the world in building engaged communities, reaching new audiences, and unlocking real-world opportunities, which will be achieved through dedicated tools, resources, and donations to designated non-profit organisations.
Kim Farrell, head of creators at TikTok, stated that the program marks the platform’s first-ever global social impact creator elevation initiative, spotlighting creators and non-profits that drive meaningful change in their communities through TikTok.
According to Farrell, the initiative aims to showcase the diverse voices and the strength of its global community as it educates advocates and inspires communities to drive meaningful, positive and lasting change.
“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 Programme to help social impact creators and non-profit organisations reach more communities, unlock real-world opportunities, and bring about lasting, meaningful change,” Farrell stated.
Farrell disclosed that the platform is unveiling an inaugural global list of Change Makers, comprising 50 purpose-driven creators from around the world to officially launch the program.
“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.”
As part of the TikTok Change Makers Programme, four purpose-driven creators from Africa have been selected to make a significant impact and inspire their audiences on platform and beyond.
In Nigeria, Charity Ekezie, known as @charityekezie, has been chosen as a Changemaker. She uses her platform to sarcastically dispel the myths about stereotypes and educate people about the reality and beauty of African culture.
“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,” she stated.
Ekezie will partner with Paradigm Initiative, an NGO that works to connect underserved young Africans, empower them with crucial digital, life, and business skills, and ensure the protection of their rights.
“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,” Adeboye Adegoke, senior manager, grants and programs strategy, Paradigm Initiative stated.
He stated that Paradigm Initiative programmes include Life Skills, ICT, Financial Readiness, Entrepreneurship (LIFE) training, and other digital rights programs. According to him, the partnership with Ekezie will help to reach new audiences and communicate key messages to the demography of TikTok audiences.
“We appreciate TikTok for this partnership and look forward to continuing 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” Adegoke stated.
