TikTok has announced a major expansion of its #LevelUpAfrica programme aimed at empowering and training over 3,000 content creators across Sub-Saharan Africa. This initiative is part of the company’s broader effort to support the next generation of the creative industry by providing skills, mentorship, and access to economic opportunities.
Since its launch in 2021, the #LevelUpAfrica programme has helped amplify the voices of African creators on a global stage while creating pathways for financial growth. Initially, the programme trained hundreds of creators annually, but with this new commitment, TikTok plans to onboard more than 3,000 creators, marking its biggest investment in the region to date.
“As a platform, creators have always been at the heart of what we do. We believe in building real pathways for African creators to thrive; giving them access to professional tools on TikTok, mentorship from industry experts, and revenue-generating opportunities that can turn content creation into a sustainable career. As we continue to grow the #LevelUpAfrica programme, we hope to see more creators thrive in turning their passions into profit,” said Boniswa Sidwaba, Head of Content Operations, Sub-Saharan Africa at TikTok.
The announcement was made during TikTok Creator Education Day, held in Lagos on Saturday. The event brought together creators, media professionals, industry leaders, and government officials, including Dr Shaibu Husseini, Director General of the National Film and Video Censor Board. The event highlighted TikTok’s ongoing investment in Nigeria’s digital economy and its focus on empowering young people through access to professional opportunities.
“We commend TikTok for expanding its creator education programmes. What stood out for us at the event was the Community Guidelines, Mental Health and Policies education. This remains a priority; ensuring that while creators can thrive in the digital economy, they do this with the understanding that it needs to be safe and responsible content creation. This way, Nigeria’s creative community thrives in a secure and supportive digital environment. We look forward to continued partnerships with TikTok,” said Dr Shaibu Husseini.
The #LevelUpAfrica programme will run for eight months and is fully funded by TikTok. It will be delivered by Special Effects Media and will feature monthly virtual masterclasses, Q&A sessions, and in-person events. The curriculum will cover important topics such as content strategy, monetisation, brand partnerships, TikTok’s Community Guidelines, and understanding the TikTok algorithm. Creators will also receive direct mentorship from experienced TikTok creators, industry experts, and platform staff.
Danilo Acquisto, Co-Founder and CEO of Special Effects Media, highlighted the importance of this initiative, saying, “Africa is home to some of the most creative voices on the planet, but those voices often don’t see the long-term success they deserve, not because of a lack of talent or creativity, but a lack of access, structure, and support. TikTok’s investment into this programme and their decision to deliver it through partners rooted in the region, signals a powerful shift from short-term reach to long-term relevance. When we get this right, we’re not just unlocking creators, we are unlocking Africa.”
