Nigerian content creator, Charity Ekezie named as one of 50 beneficiaries of TikTok’s $1M grant for Social Impact

Nigerian TikTok content creator, Charity Ekezie has been named as one of the TikTok Change Makers, a list of 50 purpose-driven creators selected from around the world to participate in the TikTok Change Makers Programme. The programme marks the platform’s first-ever global social impact creator elevation initiative to spotlight creators and non-profits who drive meaningful change in their communities using TikTok

The TikTok Change Makers Programme is a 6-month programme that has been designed to help selected Change Makers build engaged communities, reach new audiences, and unlock real-world opportunities through dedicated tools, resources, and make donations to
designated non-profit organizations, which will allow them to drive an even greater impact around their causes.

According to the social media company, the programme will be powered by its Change Makers Grant. Through the Grant, TikTok plans to donate over $1 million to over 30 global and local non-profit organizations. Each Changemaker will be honoured with a $25,000 direct donation to support their respective advocacies, thereby elevating the impact of their work.

In a statement shared with Technext, TikTok believes that the programme will showcase the diverse voices and strength of its global community as it educates, advocates and inspires communities to drive meaningful, positive and lasting change.

“We are 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,” said Kim Farrell, Head of Creators, TikTok.

“We are honoured to showcase the diverse voices and the strength of our global community as they educate, advocate, and inspire their communities to drive meaningful and lasting change”, he concluded.

Similar: TikTok launches first-ever Global Youth Council to empower African voices in digital spaces

TikTok Change Makers Programme: Meet Charity Ekezie

As part of the TikTok Change Makers Programme, five purpose-driven creators from Africa have been selected to make a significant impact and inspire their audiences on TikTok and beyond.

From Nigeria, Charity Ekezie, known as @charityekezie, was chosen.  Charity understands that many people outside Africa hold stereotypes about the continent based on media portrayals. She uses her platform to sarcastically dispel these myths 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,” said Charity Ekezie.

Charity will partner with the 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.

Their programmes include Life Skills, ICT, Financial Readiness, Entrepreneurship (LIFE) training, and other digital rights programs.

“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“, said Adeboye Adegoke, Senior Manager, of Grants & Programs Strategy, at Paradigm Initiative

“We are looking forward to working with Charity in the coming months to reach new audiences and to communicate key messages to this demography of TikTok audiences”, he added.

“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”, he added.

Meet the other change makers from Africa

Dennis Ombachi-Kenya'(@theroamingchef)

A former rugby sevens international player, Ombachi reinvented himself to become a social media star with a global fan base in just a few years. After an injury forced him to retire, Dennis’s depression became more severe and in 2018, he was diagnosed with bipolar disorder.

Dennis turned to cooking to keep him sane and during the pandemic, he turned his full attention to creating cooking content. He says his secret is to keep them “short and snappy” and in 2022, he received the TikTok Award for Best African Content Creator.

Dr Siyamak Saleh- South Africa (@doctor.siya)

Dr Siyamak Saleh is a medical professional and multi-award-winning content creator, renowned for his expertise in reproductive and sexual health education. He impacts global public health as a consultant for the World Health Organization (WHO) and through his influential TikTok channel.

By debunking myths and providing evidence-based health information, he empowers a global audience to make informed health decisions.

“I leverage TikTok to create fun and engaging content that not only raises awareness about sexual and reproductive health but also debunks the most common myths with evidence-based information. This approach empowers a global audience to make informed health decisions, promoting well-being worldwide and bridging gaps in sex education”, he said about his work.

Melissa- South Africa (@pilot_onthegram)

Melissa is a trailblazing South African pilot and creator known for her engaging aviation videos on TikTok. As the first in her nation to be verified on the platform, she’s committed to inspiring future pilots and aviators – especially women – to challenge stereotypes in the industry.

Her passion for flight and mentorship shines through her content encouraging others to soar to new heights.

“TikTok has allowed me to reach people all over the world, enabling me to post educational content while giving people a behind-the-scenes look at my job. TikTok has allowed me to draw inspiration from so many other creators doing so many amazing things while allowing me to create, inspire, and encourage a generation of can-doers stepping into their greatness!”, Melissa said.

Mai Gamal- Egypt (@nutritionist_mai_gamal)

Mai Gamal is a certified nutritionist and health coach who empowers individuals to listen to their bodies and embrace a balanced approach to nutrition. Mai’s approachable advice encourages a sustainable lifestyle, free from the rigidity of strict dieting.

Her guidance on TikTok simplifies dietary choices, promoting a flexible and understanding attitude towards health and wellness.

Click here to get to know more about the Change Makers from all over the globe.