TikTok Highlights Cultural Impact With Inaugural Visionary Voices Africa List

TikTok has introduced its first-ever Visionary Voices Africa List, honouring 15 dynamic young Africans who are making a profound impact on culture.

This list celebrates rising African stars and next-generation influencers who are transforming various industries across the continent. It focuses on individuals who are creatively redefining African culture and leveraging TikTok to educate, entertain, and champion the African community.

The honorees are classified into three groups: Creators, Small Business Owners, and Industry Disruptors. Among the distinguished names are Grammy award-winning artist Burna Boy, U.S.-based Kenyan comedian and creator Elsa Majimbo, Guinness World Record-holding chef Hilda Baci, and amapiano sensation, DJ, and producer Uncle Waffles.

The list also includes Nigerian creator and short film producer Blaqboi, and Bolo Bespoke, who uses TikTok to showcase his unique designs and the authentic style of his fashion house, Bespoke City. Additionally featured are South African entrepreneur and CEO of Afrocurl, Kayla Kim Kay, and Mwangi Muthoni of Dreadlocks Nairobi, who has turned his Nairobi salon into a renowned hub for natural dreadlocks with his keen sense of style and passion for distinctive looks.

Also highlighted are The Joy, who captured audiences at Coachella and received acclaim for their debut EP Amabutho, travel blogger Popi Sibiya, and Iremide, who won TikTok’s 2023 Top Creator Award in the Lifestyle and Education category. Other standout names include Arap Uria, a sports content creator with over 1.5 million followers, Alexa Schempers, founder of the Cape Town-based fashion label Rethread, and Chad Jones, famous for his family dance videos. Rounding out the honorees is Banele Ndaba, known as Moghelingz, whose nostalgic TikTok videos offer both entertainment and education on African culture.

In tandem with the release of this list, TikTok is launching the #VisionaryVoicesAfrica programming hub within the app. This hub will feature a curated music playlist that showcases the rich sounds putting Africa on the global stage. From July to August, TikTok will spotlight these influential African musicians, celebrating their artistic contributions and cultural significance.