• TikTok has revealed the creators it says have inspired locals throughout 2024 including Dan Corder and Dr Siyamak Saleh.
• The platform also highlighted locals who drew in a global audience.
• With the platform facing a ban in the US we hope to see increased investment in other markets.

From cucumber salads, to glycine manufacturers and being demure, TikTok was a hot bed of trending topics and content this year.

South Africa has a love for the social media platform and one can open up pretty much any comment section and find a South African voicing their opinion, especially when it comes to Martha Stewart’s “desperation pie”.

As we bid farewell to the year, TikTok has highlighted some of the best local creators on the platform. This includes folks covering current affairs, cooks, and even musicians.

The creators that inspired locals as decided by TikTok include:

• Dr Siyamak Saleh (@doctor.siya): A doctor by profession and a myth-buster by passion, Dr Siya turned TikTok into a classroom for global health education. Need clear, evidence-based advice about reproductive health? He’s your guy, and yes, he also works with the World Health Organization because saving the world is just part of his day job.
• Dan Corder (@dancorder): Uses his magnetic presence and sharp wit to encourage civic engagement. He used his platform during the ZA elections to fight misinformation, and teach the masses how to spot fake news. The buzz around him got so big that he’s now got his own show on eNCA.
• Karabo Mahapa (@kay_mahapa): Is a true hero of civic duty, Kay Mahapa lit up TikTok during the elections, educating his followers about voter engagement, election facts, and how to stay informed. His mission? Helping South Africans be informed citizens and make their votes count.
• Onezwa Mbola (@onezwambola): Imagine a food lover who crafts her dishes with homegrown and foraged ingredients, all while showcasing the beauty of Willowvale, Eastern Cape. That’s Onez! Her wholesome food content, featuring a blend of love, culture, and culinary skills, has captured the hearts of many on TikTok.
• Stefan (@left_sleeve): This advocate uses his platform to share content that lifts spirits, spreads positivity, and raises awareness of the importance of mental well-being. Prepare to be inspired!
• Siphelele Sibiya (@popi_sibiya): Combines her passion for travel with purpose. On TikTok, she shares budget-friendly tips and travel hacks, proving that adventure is within reach for everyone. Alongside showcasing stunning destinations, she uses her platform to highlight social issues, blending exploration with meaningful impact.

The platform also highlighted creators who have made a name for themselves on the global stage. Of course, this includes Tyla who took over TikTok this year either with clips of her carrying pap with her or her music.

Local creators who made a name for themselves globally include:

• Tyla Seethal (@tyla_): The South African superstar who broke global records with her hit single “Water.” She took TikTok by storm, and now, with a Grammy under her belt, she’s a global sensation, proving that TikTok is where stars are born.
• Emmanuel Madonsela (@denhlax): From dancing in rural KZN to a spot in Gordo and Drake’s music video ‘Healing’, Denhlax, aka “The Don Madfunz,” made his mark by sharing his infectious dance moves on TikTok. This TikTok sensation turned his passion into a career and is now making waves in the global entertainment scene.
• Sphesihle Hlatshwayo (@sphesihlebrian1707): Meet Sphesihle, the 19-year-old who’s turning tissue paper into art. His unique ability to create intricate art on tissue without tearing it has captivated audiences, sparking curiosity and admiration. One of his viral moments includes gifting a portrait to musician Kabza De Small, a video that garnered millions of views.
• Atlegang Songo (@papi.nicetingz): Who knew a comedic skit on TikTok could lead to acting roles? Atlegang’s hilarious content caught the attention of local TV producers, and now he’s making waves on drama series while keeping his followers in stitches.
• Sabelo Hadebe (@sabelo_the_kreator): Sabelo lost his job just before lockdown, but he didn’t let that stop him. With a camera in hand and a TikTok account, he shared affordable lifestyle tips that turned his followers into loyal fans. Brands took notice, and now he’s the go-to creator for all things budget-friendly.
• Mbali Nhlapho (@mbalinhlapho7): Mbali is changing the game in #CleanTok with her cleaning business, “Sister at Work.” Trending on TikTok since 2024, she’s inspiring users with her passion for cleanliness and entrepreneurship, proving that a tidy space leads to a tidy mind.
• Lusanda Ngcobo (@lusandaofficial_): A viral TikTok cover was all it took for Lusanda to follow her musical dreams. Now, she’s fully immersed in her music career, proving that TikTok can be the launchpad for your passions.
• Nombulelo Fox (@u_nombulelo): Nombulelo isn’t just sharing her love for film and TV; she’s turning her reviews into a cultural phenomenon. Her TikTok feed is a go-to spot for fans of the latest series and movies, highlighting the growth of entertainment content on the platform.
• Zandile Nxumalo (@ZeeNxumalo): Amapiano’s rising star, Zee Nxumalo is shaking up the music scene. Hailing from Swaziland and now a South African sensation, she’s taking TikTok by storm with her dance moves and musical collaborations with South Africa’s hottest names.

“Throughout 2024, TikTok continued to redefine how we discover, create, and connect through the shared language of video. From small businesses launching global brands to creators and artists at the forefront of cultural movements, TikTok is a catalyst for economic growth, cultural trends, and social impact,” said Boniswa Sidwaba, head of Content Operations, Sub-Saharan Africa, TikTok.

“We celebrate our South African and wider Southern Africa community who have inspired and entertained us this year, as we remain committed to nurturing a positive and inclusive environment where everyone can bring joy, have a unique voice, and a chance to shine,” she added.

With TikTok staring down the barrel of a ban in the US, we’re curious to see whether the platform shifts its focus from the US to elsewhere. While the US isn’t the only market TikTok operates in, it is one of the bigger markets and as such, tends to get more attention from ByteDance. We’d love to see more love being given to the African region as a whole from TikTok.

The beauty of the platform is that anybody, producing any quality of content can find success, so long as the content is entertaining. Consider putting some love into a TikTok profile, you could find yourself on these lists next year.