Celebrating Black History Month: @emmanul aaa

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. Next up, we're spotlighting Emmanuel Agbons! Known on TikTok as @emmanul_aaa, Emmanuel has carved out a real niche on TikTok by celebrating individuality and self-expression, particularly for what he says are tall, plus-sized men. His journey on TikTok was sparked by a desire to address the lack of representation for individuals like himself in the fashion world. Recognising that he rarely saw anyone who resonated with his style, Emmanuel aimed to create a space where black men could feel seen and understood, challenging conventional fashion norms along the way. Read more about Emmanuel below!

Q: What first inspired you to create on TikTok and why?A: What inspired me to create my first TikTok was the lack of representation I noticed for tall, plus-sized men who express their style the way I do. I rarely saw anyone that resonated with my fashion sense, so I decided to create a space where men like me could feel seen and understood. I wanted to challenge conventional ideas of how men should dress and offer a form of representation for those, like myself, who don't conform to traditional fashion norms. My goal was to create a space where individuality and self-expression are celebrated, giving others the confidence to embrace their own style.

Q: What does Black History mean to you?A: Black History Month holds a profound significance for me as a Black person in today's society. It is a time to reflect on the struggles and triumphs of my ancestors, whose resilience, creativity, and perseverance paved the way for the freedoms I enjoy today. Beyond mere remembrance, Black History Month serves as a reminder of the ongoing journey toward equality and representation. It's a time tocelebrate Black excellence in all its forms-whether in art, business, academia, or activism-and to acknowledge the diverse experiences that shape our identity. In a world where systemic racism and discrimination are still very real, this month allows me to feel a deeper sense of belonging and pride in my heritage. It encourages me to continue the fight for justice, to uplift my community, and to challenge stereotypes that still exist. Black History Month is not just about looking back; it's about empowering the next generation, ensuring our stories are told, and celebrating the beauty and strength of being Black in a world that doesn't always appreciate it.
For me, it's a powerful reminder that we are not defined by the limitations others place on us, but by our shared history, our continued perseverance, and our ability to shape the future.

Q: What other Black and Irish creators are on your For You feed?A: Among the few Black and Irish TikTokers that frequently appear on my FYP, one standout is @dr.blondieperes. I absolutely love her content! She has a unique ability to blend vibrant energy with practical medical advice, making every video not just informative but also engaging and playful. Her approachable style turns complex health topics into something everyone can understand and enjoy.
Another creator who regularly appears on my feed is @victoralfred11. His humour is spot-on, and his content is so relatable. He effortlessly mixes comedy with everyday life, making it easy for anyone to connect with his videos. Both of these creators are bringing something fresh to the Irish TikTok scene, and it's exciting to see their impact grow.

Q: What is your favourite TikTok you have made to date and why?
A: It's truly difficult to pick just one video as my favourite because each one has played a part in shaping who I am today. Every look, every creative choice, has been a reflection of my journey to stay authentic, embrace my uniqueness, and continue inspiring others. Each project reminds me to push boundaries, remain true to myself, and keep evolving in ways that resonate with my audience.

Q: What does it mean to you to be a part of TikTok's Trailblazer campaign for Black History Month?A: As a Black creative, being a part of TikTok's Trailblazer campaign for Black History Month is both an honour and a responsibility. This campaign represents more than just visibility-it's a platform where we, as Black creators, get to showcase the richness and diversity of our stories, our culture, and our experiences. It allows me to contribute to the broader narrative, amplifying voices that have often been marginalised or overlooked.
Being recognised as a Trailblazer means that my work resonates with people and that I have the opportunity to inspire others, especially the younger generation of Black creatives. It's a reminder that our creativity and innovation have always been a part of the cultural landscape, and this campaign is a celebration of that legacy. But beyond celebration, it's also a call to action. It reminds me of the importance of creating authentically, lifting as we climb, and continuing to push the boundaries of what's possible. Black History Month is a time to reflect on our past, but also to pave the way for the future-and being part of this campaign is an empowering way to do both. Ultimately, it means standing proudly in my identity, embracing the responsibility of representation, and making sure that our stories are told with the fullness and complexity they deserve.