TikTok has announced a $1m donation to support creators and non-profit organisations driving positive change through its Change Makers Programme.
Charity Ekezie, a local creator, has been selected as one of the 50 purpose-driven creators from around the world to receive a $25,000 direct donation to support her advocacy.
The short video platform made this disclosure in a statement.
The platform selected other purpose-driven creators from Africa, including @theroamingchef from Kenya, @doctor.siya from South Africa, and @pilot_onthegram from South Africa.
Ekezie is known for using her platform to dispel negative stereotypes about Africa and educate people about the 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 also spread awareness about the beauty of African culture and its people,” said the creator.
Through the programme, TikTok stated that it aimed to educate, advocate, and inspire communities to drive meaningful change.
It noted that the initiative demonstrated its commitment to empowering creators who drive positive change and support important causes globally.
It added that Ekezie would 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.
The Senior Manager, Grants & Programmes Strategy, Paradigm Initiative, Adeboye Adegoke, noted, “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. We are looking forward to working with Charity in the coming months to reach new audiences and communicate key messages to this demographic of TikTok audiences.”