Celebrating Black History Month: @aishahakorede

Join us in celebrating Black History Month as we spotlight some of Ireland's most talented Black creators! We support #BlackTikTok year-round, but this month we want to take the opportunity to actively highlight Irish Black creators on TikTok and honour their contribution to Black culture and heritage in Ireland. Aishah Akorede (@aishahakorede) can do it all - a Master of Law, fashion model, reality show star, Womens' Rights activist, and Miss Universe Ireland 2023! She uses her platform to strike a balance between lighthearted content, through fashion, beauty, lifestyle, and travel content, and discussing important issues such as outdated beauty standards, and prejudices about what it means to be Irish. Read More below!

Q: What first inspired you to create on TikTok and why?A: I was drawn to TikTok because it seemed like everyone was doing it, so I thought, why not give it a try? I started with satire and humorous content, but my focus shifted after I became Miss Universe Ireland. My platform became more than just entertainment, it turned into a space to inspire and empower others, particularly in lifestyle, fashion, beauty, and self-confidence. TikTok has given me the opportunity to share parts of my story and connect with people who see themselves in my journey.

Q: What does Black History Month mean to you?A: For me, Black History Month is about celebrating the resilience and progress of Black people. Our history is filled with struggle, but we've also achieved so much despite the odds. During my Master's programme, I wrote a thesis on the systemic disadvantages Black people still face in the job market, especially when it comes to something as simple as their names. Even today, we continue to fight for equal opportunities, but Black History Month serves as a reminder of our strength and how far we've come. It's a time to honour our legacy and to keep pushing for the changes we still need.

Q: What other Black and Irish creators are on your For You feed?A:@ubiogulu, @innyeke, and @destinyese1!

Q: What is your favourite TikTok you have made to date and why?A: My favourite TikTok is definitely the one where I responded to someone saying, "don't bring your natural hair to my event." I talked about internalised oppression and the importance of Black people embracing their natural beauty, especially their hair. The video sparked some really important conversations, and it's always felt rewarding to use my platform to highlight issues that affect our community while empowering others to love and accept themselves.

Q: What does it mean to you to be a part of TikTok's Trailblazer campaign for Black History Month?
A: It's an incredible honour to be part of TikTok's Trailblazer campaign. As a Black woman and Miss Universe representative from Ireland, I've faced a lot of racism and adversity. But seeing how many people, especially young Black girls and women, look to me for inspiration makes it all worth it. I started my non-profit, Recrowned Ireland, 6 years ago to support and empower young women by providing mental health services and raising awareness for social issues. Being part of this campaign aligns perfectly with everything I'm passionate aboutadvocating for human rights, raising awareness, and building confidence in others. It's not just about breaking barriers for me, but showing others they can do the same. Also, with my LLB and LLM in law, focusing on corporate governance and human rights, I'm committed to making an impact beyond pageantry and social media. This opportunity serves as a reminder of why I continue to push for change and advocate for equality on a global scale.

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