TikTok has officially announced the launch of its 2024 Change Makers Programme in South Africa, dedicating a substantial grant of $1 million (approximately R18.7 million) to support content creators and non-profit organizations making a significant social impact within their communities.
A First for TikTok in South Africa
This initiative represents TikTok’s inaugural venture into a global social impact creator support program on South African soil. The primary goal of the Change Makers Programme is to highlight and amplify the work of local creators and non-profits that are using the TikTok platform to instigate positive change and contribute to their communities in meaningful ways. The program also aims to celebrate and elevate the diverse voices that make up TikTok’s global community.
Comprehensive Support for Change Makers
Over six months, TikTok will provide these change-making creators with various support mechanisms. This includes assistance in building engaged online communities, expanding their reach to new audiences, and unlocking opportunities that have tangible effects in the real world. The social media giant plans to achieve this by offering dedicated tools and resources and facilitating donations to selected non-profit organizations. These efforts are aimed at enhancing the creators’ ability to make a more substantial impact in their respective causes and initiatives.
Financial Support for Local Non-Profits
TikTok has announced its commitment to donate over $1 million to more than 30 local non-profit organizations in South Africa, championing a variety of significant causes. This philanthropic gesture is part of the social network’s broader initiative to support community-driven change through its 2024 Change Makers Programme.
Each selected change-maker within the program will receive a direct donation of $25,000 to bolster their advocacy efforts. This financial support is intended to enhance the effectiveness and reach of their work, thereby amplifying the positive impact they have within their communities.
Spotlighting Purpose-Driven Creators
TikTok has taken the opportunity to spotlight four purpose-driven creators from Africa, chosen for their potential to significantly influence and inspire their audiences on TikTok and beyond. Among these distinguished individuals are Dr. Siyamak Saleh and Melissa, known as @pilot_onthegram, both hailing from South Africa.
Dr. Siyamak Saleh: Educating on Reproductive and Sexual Health
Dr. Siyamak Saleh is a medical professional and an award-winning content creator who specializes in reproductive and sexual health education. His contributions to global public health include consulting for the World Health Organization (WHO) and disseminating valuable information through his TikTok channel.
Partnering with the WHO for this program, Dr. Saleh leverages the platform to produce engaging content that raises awareness about sexual and reproductive health and dispels common myths using evidence-based information. His approach aims to empower a global audience to make informed health decisions, promoting overall well-being and addressing gaps in sex education.
Melissa: Breaking Barriers in Aviation and Mental Health Advocacy
Melissa, recognized by her first name on social media, is a trailblazing South African pilot and content creator celebrated for her aviation-themed TikTok videos. As the first pilot in South Africa to receive verification on the platform, she uses her influence to encourage aspiring pilots and aviators, particularly women, to defy industry stereotypes.
For the Change Makers Programme, Melissa has chosen to collaborate with the South African Depression and Anxiety Group. She is dedicated to using TikTok to break down barriers, inspire the next generation of women, and raise awareness about the importance of mental health, offering support to those who may be facing challenges in this area.
Global Recognition and Local Impact
To mark the commencement of this initiative, TikTok is celebrating by revealing a global list of 50 purpose-driven creators from around the world who embody the spirit of the Change Makers Programme. For more information, visit the local Change Makers Content Hub. Over the next six months, the hub will feature inspiring programming and impactful stories.