Khaby Lame, the world’s most-followed TikTok personality, has officially joined UNICEF as a Goodwill Ambassador, using his global influence to advocate for children’s rights. The 24-year-old Senegal-born content creator, famous for his silent yet expressive videos, marked his new role by addressing young people in his home country.
With over 162 million TikTok followers, Lame skyrocketed to fame during the pandemic after losing his job at a factory. Turning adversity into opportunity, he built a massive online audience with his humorous, no-nonsense reactions to overly complicated life hacks. Now, as a UNICEF ambassador, he hopes to channel his influence into meaningful action.
“It’s a true honor to be appointed as a UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador and be part of an organization that puts children’s rights front and center every day,” Lame said in a statement. “From my own experience as a child fearing poverty, struggling to find my passion at school, and losing my job during the COVID-19 pandemic, I know that all children can thrive when they are given a chance and opportunity.”
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During his four-day visit to Senegal, he met with children and young leaders working to improve their communities, offering words of encouragement to young people facing economic hardship and instability.
Senegal has one of the youngest populations in the world, with over 60% under the age of 25. However, with 90% working in informal jobs, many young people see migration as their only option for a better future. Addressing this, Lame urged them to dream big and push forward despite challenges.
“I tell them to dream big,” he said. “Try and do your best to accomplish your dreams, even though there are people telling you that you cannot reach them.”
Though Lame moved to Italy as a child, he only gained Italian citizenship at 20 years old. Reflecting on his identity, he told reporters, “My blood is from Senegal, but I feel Senegalese and Italian at the same time.”
With his appointment as a UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador, Lame’s journey from factory worker to global superstar now comes full circle, as he uses his platform to advocate for children in need.
