Piece by: PAUL AMUKO

19 June 2023

• YouTube, the leading online video platform, recently hosted a vibrant two-day event in Nairobi, Kenya, to celebrate the 2023 grantees of its #YouTubeBlack Voices Fund.

• It was highlighted by performances from Tanzania's Zuchu and Nigeria's Victony.

The celebrations held at The Nairobi open kitchen saw the attendance of celebrities from across the world, It was highlighted by performances from Tanzania's Zuchu and Nigeria's Victony.

This was after the closing ceremony delegation that was held at State House where we had remarks from the President Dr. William Ruto, Agnes Gathaiya, Country Director, Kenya & Eastern Africa, and Alex Okosi.

This initiative, launched in 2020, aims to invest in talent and promote fresh narratives that emphasize the intellectual power and authenticity of Black voices.

Over 100 Black creators from across the globe participated in the festivities, fostering connections and collaborations with fellow content creators.

Since its inception, the Black Voices Fund has had a significant impact, helping over 500 creators and artists grow their channels and expand their audiences.

The program provides vital resources to up-and-coming Black artists, creators, producers, and songwriters, empowering them to succeed on YouTube's platform.

"When we announced the $100 million fund to amplify Black and African voices and perspectives on our platform, we wanted to create a space where Black people can share their own stories, in their own voices, with the world," stated Alex Okosi, YouTube's Managing Director of Emerging Markets, EMEA.

The fund has, in many ways, created opportunities to amplify, celebrate, and cultivate Black artistry for a global audience.

"The impact of the Black Voices Fund has been transformational for many creators."

Osereme Egbor, a Nigerian creator known as Style by Reme, expressed gratitude, saying,

"Being a part of the BVF program Class of 2023 has literally changed my life. I moved from creating content in a room that I used to share with my sister to getting my own space. I was also able to acquire better filming equipment like ring lights and tripods to enhance the quality of my videos."

YouTube's commitment to Africa's creative ecosystem extends beyond the Black Voices Fund. The platform plays a crucial role in the discovery and development of African culture, and they are actively investing in strategic partnerships with culturally relevant organizations.

YouTube aims to ensure that Black creators from Africa and around the world find a home on the platform, and they will continue to prioritize and center Black creators, artists, and content through various programs, initiatives, and platform improvements.