South African Pioneers Lead TikTok’s Visionary Voices Africa List in Creativity and Innovation

TikTok, the leading short-form video platform, has announced its inaugural Visionary Voices List for Africa. This prestigious list recognises 15 exceptional individuals at the forefront of industry-shifting innovation, viral trends elevating African music, transforming entertainment spaces, and cultural representation.

The Visionary Voices Africa List highlights the significant impact these honourees have on media, entertainment, and cultural representation across the continent. They are celebrated in three categories: Creators, Small-Owned Businesses, and Industry Disruptors.

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TikTok Celebrates African Creativity at the 2023 Top Creator Awards

On February 9, TikTok honoured the region’s most outstanding content creators at the 2023 Top Creator Awards, powered by Vodacom NXT LVL. Held at Vodacom World, Johannesburg, this gala event celebrated TikTok’s vibrant community’s creativity, innovation, and dedication across Sub-Saharan Africa.

The awards ceremony not only spotlighted exceptional content across various categories but also emphasised TikTok’s commitment to empowering creators. By offering resources and monetisation opportunities, the platform is pivotal in enabling creators to pursue their passions sustainably.

Bianca Sibiya, TikTok’s Head of Content Operations in Sub-Saharan Africa, shared that the awards are designed to inspire, guide, and empower the next generation of talent. “The #TopCreator2023 awards give us an opportunity to recognise and celebrate our talented content creators from across the continent. We’re incredibly proud and inspired by these creators, who significantly impact their communities through innovative, engaging and captivating content. Congratulations to all the winners and nominees.”

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2023 #YearOnTikTok – A Celebration of Community

As millions tune in daily, TikTok has become a global stage for South African talent, emanating originality, energy, and passion. From comedians and dancers to musicians and makeup artists, the platform boasts a diverse spectrum of entertainment that resonates with audiences worldwide.

South African creators and influencers have etched their mark on this international stage, leaving an indelible impression.

The richness of South African talent on TikTok spans diverse genres and niches. Comedians bring laughter with witty skits, and dancers dazzle with their moves, musicians captivate with Amapiano rhythms, and makeup artists add sparkle to beauty trends. Meanwhile, DIY enthusiasts share life-changing hacks, contributing to the vibrant creative community.

Year-On-TikTok 2023 isn’t merely a celebration of trends; it invites users to revisit their favourite memories in true TikTok style. Through the power of community, the app has connected people from all walks of life, fostering a sense of inclusivity.

Bianca Sibiya, Head of Content Operations for Sub-Saharan Africa, delves into the true meaning of the campaign: “TikTok is a platform that celebrates creativity and unites people globally. Its community-driven essence means anyone can become a creator and share their stories with a global audience.”
Sibiya emphasises, “#YearOnTikTok 2023 sets a benchmark for creativity, innovation, and meaningful connection. With its commitment to recognising top creators and their impactful work, this initiative aims to inspire, guide and empower the next generation of talent.”

Let’s dive into the year that was and explore the mind-blowing trends that came with it.

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TikTok x SAMA28

I recently attended a launch event where TikTok announced that it has partnered with the 28th South African Music Awards (SAMA28), to introduce the inaugural public-voted “TikTok Viral Song of the Year” category. This award recognises and celebrates local songs and artists that have dominated the entertainment platform in South Africa in the past year.

A number of the most popular songs of the past year made their debut on the entertainment platform before shooting to the top of the music charts globally – earning the platform its well-deserved spot in the music industry.

The TikTok Viral Song of the Year nominations can be voted for exclusively on TikTok from Thursday, 11 August at midday until 24 August, and the winner will be announced at the live SAMA event taking place on 28 August 2022 in Sun City, North West.

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