In the wake of Khaby Lame’s massive TikTok success, other African influencers are hopeful that they too can break through the algorithm.

In the wake of Khaby Lame’s massive TikTok success, other African influencers are hopeful that they too can break through the algorithm. Though Lame, the most-followed person on the app, is African, and African creators “have been responsible for some major viral moments,” these influencers can struggle to be seen thanks to algorithms, location settings, and a lack of support. For example, TikTok’s creators fund is available only to those in the U.S., U.K., Germany, Italy, France, and Spain, leaving young influencers trying to build audiences and brand relationships in Africa to fend for themselves. Creators like @charityekeze and @angellasummernamu have millions of followers and views, but don’t have the corresponding “level of brand engagement or opportunities” that those in the U.S. or U.K. do. While Lame’s success is a sign that “global fame is attainable,” many African creators who should be getting more attention are ultimately being locked out of the system. (BuzzFeed)