11 Kenyan content creators among 109 YouTube Black Voices Fund grantees

Black content creators across the world gathered in Kenya for a two-day celebration that culminated in a mega fete on June 15, 2023 to celebrate the 2023 #YouTubeBlack Voices Fund grantees.

The 109 creators got an opportunity to connect, network and collaborate with each other during the celebrations which highlighted the impact that the YouTube Black Voices Fund has had since its launch.

The Black creators were drawn from various countries, namely; USA (21), UK (30), Canada (12), South Africa (18), Nigeria (17) and Kenya (11).

They ranged from travel vloggers, educators, financial literacy advisors, make-up artists, news producers, chefs, agriculturalists, designers among others.

The YouTube Black Voices Fund was incepted in 2020 with the purpose of investing in talent and presenting fresh narratives that emphasise the intellectual power and authenticity of Black voices.

It has since helped over 500 content creators and artists grow their channels and audiences, hence earn a living from their craft.

YouTube, through the fund, endeavours to equip up-and-coming Black creators, artists, songwriters and producers with the resources to succeed on the platform.

In addition to funding, creators also receive one-on-one mentorship and classes on how to grow their revenue.

Agnes Gathaiya, Google Country Director for Kenya & Eastern Africa, speaking during a meeting with President William Ruto at State House on June 13, 2023, said around 500 hours of video are uploaded on YouTube every minute and over one billion hours of video are watched every day.

“Google is committed to equipping Kenyans with the necessary tools to nurture their creativity, realise their potential and grow themselves, their communities and the country,” she said.

YouTube data as of December 2022 showed that, in Kenya, the number of YouTube channels making Ksh.100K or more in revenue has increased by over 25 per cent.

In addition, in Kenya, over 14 channels have more than 1 million subscribers, an increase of more than 110 per cent.

“When we announced the $100 million (approx. Ksh.14 billion) 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. The fund has, in many ways, created opportunities to amplify, celebrate and cultivate Black artistry for a global audience,” said YouTube Managing Director of Emerging Markets, EMEA, Alex Okosi.

Kenyan creator Wongel Zelalem said; “I was given a strategic manager who was dedicated to helping me and giving me solutions to my problems. That was something that I didn’t know I needed in my life.”