The heart of TikTok is creators: the people responsible for the dance videos, the comedic clips, and the life hacks you didn't know you needed. Now, the platform is uplifting its most influential creators with a new initiative, The Discover List.
"The Discover List is a first of its kind list for TikTok, that is highlighting and amplifying creators," Cynthia Dew, communications manager at TikTok, told reporters.
Launched Tuesday, the list sits on its own microsite on TikTok's website where a flock of 50 creators are featured over 10 categories including Icons, Innovators, Foodies, Changemakers, and Originators. TikTok said in a statement the list features "stars who are changing the game in their respective lanes — and beyond."
Some categories on the list are self-explanatory. Foodies include recipe-connoisseur Ana M Regalado (@saltycocina), Disney movie food creator Gabrielle Williams (@gabby.jaye), and food vlogger Newton Nguyen (@newt). Other categories, like Icons, exemplify TikTok's distinctive culture. They're the creators known for living on the For You page, and are synonymous with the app. Think Bella Poarch (@bellapoarc), Filipino-American singer and content creator. Or creator Juliana Olaleye (@flossybaby), and actor Boman Martinez-Reid (@Bomanizer). Similarly, Originators are those who have a penchant for going viral, making content that inevitably sparks trends. These include creators like Tracy Joseph (@Tracy.oj), Ronald Michel (@Rony_boyy), and Katherine Florence (@katieflorence).
In the Changemakers category, meanwhile, are the advocates pushing for positive change and justice, utilising TikTok for their mission. Take Shirley Raines (@Beauty2thestreetz) — she, along with a team of volunteers, are dedicated to supporting homeless communities in Los Angeles' Skid Row. There, Raines provides food, but also beauty services: hair washes, makeup and wigs, with the purpose of bringing hope and connection to over 400 people.
Finally, there are the Innovators, recognized for being pioneers in their respective fields, including music artist Shaquille Edwards (@PiffMarti) and animation artist Maddi Winter (@maddiwinter).
TikTok told Mashable the list won't change over time, but will rather be an annual list.
TikTokkers from the Discover List attending the press conference explained the significance of the platform on an individual level. Food blogger Joanne Molinaro (@thekoreanvegan), for example, said that the platform has helped her to "open people’s hearts to the immigrant story", using recipes, vlogs, and conversation. She said TikTok helped her to advocate for the API community, forging important conversations.
Content creator Leo Gonzalez (@LeoGonzall) similarly unpacked the the impact of TikTok on his life, telling reporters, "TikTok has allowed me to dream again."
However, the app hasn't always been lauded for the foundation they provide to those creating content on the app. In 2019, TikTok was criticized for suppressing videos by queer creators and creators with disabilities. Earlier this year, Black creators conducted a strike against TikTok, protesting the lack of recognition and credit given for viral dance routines.
With The Discover List, TikTok is seemingly laying the bricks for a more positive relationship with their creators. After all, the app would be nothing without them.
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