Celebrating Black Creators on TikTok

From viral trends to promoting Black Joy through various forms of art and expression, the #BlackTikTok community is leading the way in cultural innovation. This Black History Month and beyond, we are celebrating and amplifying the impact of Black creators on our platform.

To kick off our Black History Month 2023 celebration, we are introducing the Visionary Voices list, which recognizes 15 Black creators who are making a significant impact on and off TikTok. These innovators are using their platforms to educate, entertain, and advocate for the Black community. The honorees are divided into three categories: Creators, Small Owned Businesses, and Industry Disruptors.

Among the Creators, we have Kelon from Houston, TX, who has created a unique universe of chaos on TikTok. Kennedy from San Francisco, CA, focuses on incorporating coziness into gaming and lifestyle content. Emmanuel Uddenberg from Toronto, Canada, combines fashion and creativity in his videos. Kahlil Greene from New York, NY, is known as the "Gen Z Historian" and educates viewers on hidden history. Emira D'Spain from New York, NY, is a transgender model and beauty creator who offers tips and insights on beauty and fashion.

In the Industry Disruptors category, we have Lisette Eduardo from Miami, FL, a social media personality and influencer. Ice Spice from New York, NY, is a rising star in the music industry. Keith Lee from Las Vegas, NV, highlights small owned and family restaurants. Lynae Vanee from Atlanta, GA, uses her platforms to speak on important issues. Maiya The Don from New York, NY, is a Hip Hop artist with a mission to empower others.

The Small Business Owners category includes Brandon Blackwood from Brooklyn, NY, who founded a fashion brand influenced by his personal life. Danessa Myricks from Bethpage, NY, is a celebrated makeup artist and educator. Summer Lucille from Charlotte, NC, combines fashion and confidence-building in her videos. Olumide Shokubi from Brentwood, MD, celebrates the beauty of Black cuisine. Courtney B. and Zan B.R. from New York, NY, are co-founders of Urban Dessert Lab, offering plant-based creations.

The #BlackTikTok community continues to inspire mainstream culture with viral trends and hashtags. Our in-app hub will feature inspiring stories from creators and Black-owned businesses, as well as non-profit organizations. We will also celebrate the impact of Black musicians on music and culture, with special guests and themed playlists.

To further celebrate Black culture, we have a livestream series scheduled, featuring Black chefs, artists, musicians, and more. We will also host IRL events, including the Visionary Voices Salon series and a Black History Month celebration in Los Angeles.

Within TikTok, our employee resource group BLXCK celebrates the impact of our Black employee community. As part of our company-wide Black History Month celebration, BLXCK will spotlight inspiring stories of our employees.

Follow @BlackTikTok, @TikTokCreators, and @TikTok to stay updated on our Black History Month programming and the #BlackTikTok community.