YouTube has announced its expansion plans to support creators and the creative economy in Africa with $20,000 and $50,000, respectively, through the 2023 #YouTubeBlack Voices creators and artists. According to YouTube’s managing director for emerging markets, Alex Okosi, the program was a follow-up to a global, multi-year pledge made in 2020.
The grant, according to Mr. Okosi, was created to support and advance Black musicians, authors, producers, and innovators on the platform. According to the director, YouTube is interested in Africa’s creative community’s growth.
He indicated that for the third generation of creators, artists, songwriters, and producers, success will be measured over a long period of time, going beyond the first training.
Mr. Okosi added that it would guarantee the creators’ long-term success while announcing that 40 sub-Saharan African creators will be among the 135 #YouTubeBlack Voices Creators selected globally to join the cohort.
He also revealed that African fast-rising musical artists Gyakie from Ghana, Kamo Mphela from South Africa, Asake from Nigeria, and BNXN from Nigeria were among the 23 #YouTubeBlack Voices Artists chosen for the program.
According to the YouTube spokesperson, companies would get dedicated partner assistance for six months and be able to take part in year-round networking events as well as programs like customised training.
“We are excited about the creators, musical artists, and producers from Africa joining others from across the world in the 2023 #YouTubeBlack Voices Fund. The initiative is dedicated to equipping up-and-coming black creators and artists with the resources to succeed on our platform,” he said.
