Nairobi News

Social media has become a big part of people’s lives.

Since the pandemic struck in 2020, social media played a vital role in keeping people ‘sane’ during global lockdowns to minimize the spread of the infectious COVID-19 virus.

Youths are now embracing social media platforms such as TikTok to express themselves, share fashion trends, create slang, and redefine social norms.

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Below are a few ways youths are using TikTok to shape culture:

Fashion

Yvonne Wairimu, the 21-year-old fashion enthusiast, takes us through her TikTok journey. With her charismatic personality and flair for fashion, Yvonne has become a trendsetter.

Through short video clips, she showcases her unique style and the latest fashion trends that she and her friends have picked up from TikTok.

“TikTok allows us to be bold and experiment with our fashion choices,” Yvonne told Nairobi News.

“It’s like having a virtual runway where we can express ourselves without limits” she added.

Yvonne’s TikTok videos often feature her favorite dance challenges, makeup tutorials, and fashion hauls.

Her followers eagerly anticipate her uploads and her influence extends to local clothing stores, where she collaborates to feature their latest collections.

“TikTok has turned our passion for fashion into a community,” she adds.

The Slang Shapers

Language is ever-evolving, and TikTok is at the forefront of slang innovation. Some engage in slang challenges in TikTok just to showcase how much they know sheng.

Breaking Gender Stereotypes

TikTok has also become a platform for challenging traditional gender norms in the country. Young women and men are redefining beauty standards and sharing messages of empowerment. One TikTok sensation, *Sarah, uses her platform to break stereotypes about women in sports. She shares videos of her intense soccer training sessions, inspiring other young girls to pursue their athletic passions without reservation.

“I want girls to know they can be strong and excel in sports just as much as boys,” Sarah says. “TikTok has given me the voice to share this message and show the world what women are capable of.”

Unity Through Dance

Dance challenges have taken TikTok by storm, with young people from diverse backgrounds coming together to groove and showcase their talent. TikTok has become a platform for celebrating unity through dance. Jackline, a dance enthusiast, leads a group of friends in a dance challenge that combines traditional Kenyan moves with modern choreography.

TikTok has emerged as a powerful force for change. Through fashion, language, empowerment, and unity, young Nairobians use this platform to shape their city’s culture, one TikTok video at a time.