The Black TikTok community continues to redefine creativity and influence across various domains!
TikTok has launched its #BlackTikTok Visionary Voices list for 2024, paying tribute to the Black creators, entrepreneurs, and industry disruptors who are leaving their marks on the platform and beyond. The social media giant is using the occasion of Black History Month to recognize and amplify the cultural contributions of the #BlackTikTok community.
Among the creators recognized on the Visionary Voices list are:
- @aliyahsinterlude (New York, NY): Aliyah’s Interlude, an artist with a unique blend of music and fashion influence, known for her trendsetting style and hit single “IT GIRL.”
- @accessbytay (Toronto, Canada): Taylor Lindsay-Noel, an entrepreneur using her platform to inspire change and promote disability and accessibility awareness.
- @misswondroussoul (Toronto, Canada): Ms. Hassan, a creator combining a passion for teaching and fashion to inspire educators and students through unique outfit videos.
- @nyane (Amsterdam, Netherlands): Nyane, a content creator and entrepreneur with a focus on fashion and beauty, empowering diverse beauty standards.
- @onestopchop (Stafford, VA): Daven Gates, a home cook and Army Vet, using TikTok to share cooking as an outlet for mental health.
Lindsay-Noel shared her aspirations with Because of Them We Can, stating, “My personal identity definitely influences my TikTok content. Being Black, female, and disabled, I strive to show all aspects of myself while challenging stereotypes and highlighting areas and achievements that often go unseen.” She added, “My ultimate goal with my content is to change the landscape of accessibility within communities and to continue the reach and awareness of disability representation in media. Being an honoree during Black History Month is something I am deeply grateful for because I know it will only help to continue to spread the work that I am hoping to achieve in this lifetime.”
The list also includes industry disruptors such as GRAMMY Award-winning artists @cocojones and @victoriamonet, multi-hyphenate creator @doctor.darien, and artist @igobylu.
Recognizing the impact of small-owned businesses (SMBs), TikTok celebrates entrepreneurs like @lorvaeeyewear, @pochigoods, @realmcandles.ca, @theskincarebakery, and @topicals, highlighting their creativity and innovation across various industries.
TikTok is not only honoring these individuals but also bringing the #BlackTikTok celebration to life with a series of in-app initiatives and real-world events. The platform introduces the #ShopBlack program, in-app livestream events, #BlackMusic playlists, and the #BlackTikTok creator grant program in partnership with Black Girl Ventures. Live events include the Visionary Voices Black Hollywood Brunch and a special advanced screening of the movie Bob Marley: One Love in partnership with Paramount Pictures.
To further the celebration, TikTok has commissioned a custom mural in Atlanta by visual performance artist Fabian Williams. The mural, set to be unveiled on February 5th, pays tribute to the ways Black creatives and innovators in Atlanta are shaping the future, exploring themes of Black liberation, innovation, and joy.
As the platform honors Black creators and entrepreneurs, it reinforces its commitment to fostering an inclusive and diverse community.
Interested in exploring more positive Black stories on TikTok? Follow Because of Them We Can and our Black History Month series on TikTok @officialbotwc.
Cover Photo: TikTok Celebrates Impact of #BlackTikTok & Visionary Creatives In Honor Of BHM/ Rapper Baby Tate attends festivities for TikTok’s Inagural Visionary Voices List in 2023 / Credit: Getty Images