In a bold step toward fostering safer, more supportive digital spaces, TikTok hosted its first Digital Well-Being Summit in Johannesburg—bringing mental health to the forefront of the platform’s evolving global mission.
Held at the lush Langhams Estate in Fourways, the event welcomed creators, influencers, NGOs, mental health professionals, and media from across Sub-Saharan Africa. Hosted by the ever-charismatic Melody Miya, the summit not only highlighted TikTok’s innovative tools for user well-being but also set the tone for healthier, more mindful engagement online.
Raising the Bar for Digital Safety
From time limits to meditation reminders, TikTok is introducing new features that centre mental wellness. These tools are part of a broader commitment to cultivating a safe, empowering space where emotionally complex topics can be explored with care, empathy, and context.
Valiant Richey, TikTok’s Global Head of Trust and Safety Outreach, explained:
“People come to TikTok to learn, talk about mental wellbeing, and share their experiences. We’re committed to making sure those conversations happen in a supportive space.”
Introducing TikTok’s Mental Health Ambassadors
One of the summit’s major announcements was the introduction of Mental Health Ambassadors—a carefully selected group of professionals from the World Health Organisation’s Fides Network. These experts provide accessible, evidence-based content tailored to the unique cultural and social dynamics of African audiences.
The ambassadors include:
@theconsciouspsychologist (Sanam Naran, South Africa)
@dr.claire.kinuthia (Kenya)
@olawalesmd (Doctor Wales, Nigeria)
@doctor.siya (South Africa)
Each brings deep local insight and clinical expertise, helping users navigate sensitive mental health conversations with accuracy and care.
#MentalHealthMatters: A Global Campaign with Local Impact
The summit spotlighted the platform’s ongoing #MentalHealthMatters campaign, which has generated over 6.5 million posts globally. Designed to educate and uplift, the campaign features trusted information from health professionals on how to access mental wellness tools and community support.
As part of this effort, TikTok has expanded its Mental Health Education Fund into Sub-Saharan Africa—supporting organisations that are changing the narrative on mental health through culturally resonant digital content. These new partners include:
South African Depression and Anxiety Group (SADAG)
Mentally Aware Nigeria Initiative (MANI)
Mental360 (Kenya)
In-App Helplines Rolling Out Across Africa
TikTok also announced the expansion of in-app mental health helpline integrations across the continent. Now, when users report content involving self-harm, hate speech, or emotional distress, they’ll be directed to local helplines for timely and expert support.
New helpline partners include:
Childline SA (South Africa)
Childline Kenya (Kenya)
Cece Yara (Nigeria)
Halley Movement (Mauritius)
Tanzania National Child Helpline
Childline Zambia
Childline Namibia
Tithandizane National Helpline (Malawi)
Partners Speak Out
Sanam Naran, Mental Health Ambassador “High-quality social connections are essential to our well-being. Platforms like TikTok have a powerful role to play in helping people connect meaningfully—and safely.”
Martha Sunda, Executive Director, Childline Kenya “Timely access to support can change lives. This partnership with TikTok ensures that help is available right where young people need it most—on their screens.”
Abiodun Oguntola, Executive Director, MANI “With support from the Mental Health Education Fund, we’re creating relatable, stigma-free content that helps more people prioritise their mental well-being.”
Yusuf Akoojee, Marketing Director, Spectra “Technology should be human-first. Our partnership with TikTok reflects a shared vision for digital spaces that are both innovative and safe.”
A New Chapter for Online Community Care
With its first Well-Being Summit in Africa, TikTok has redefined what it means to be a truly supportive digital platform. By centering care, connection, and community, it’s clear that the app is not just a place for entertainment—but a space where real, lasting change begins.
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