TikTok empowers LGBTQIA+ creators to find their voice through music, mentorship, and community

TikTok, the leading destination for short-form mobile video, celebrated Pride Month with #ForYourPride, its annual campaign designed to amplify LGBTQIA+ voices and stories.

On its sixth year, #ForYourPride recognizes the power of music and creative expression to inspire conversations that promote understanding, empathy, and allyship with the theme “Find Your Voice”. Through a TikTok LIVE singing competition, an exclusive creator mentorship session, and an immersive offline celebration, #ForYourPride showcased how TikTok LIVE empowers creators to express themselves authentically, connect with audiences in real time, and unlock new opportunities for growth.

“Creating a safe space where people feel seen, heard, and empowered to express themselves has always been at the heart of what we do at TikTok. Through #ForYourPride, we celebrate LGBTQIA+ creators and allies who are using their creativity and voices to spark conversations, inspire others, and build communities that uplift one another,” said Bea Bautista, Communications Lead for the Philippines, Thailand, and Malaysia at TikTok.

Empowering creators to find their voice

TikTok LIVE has become a space where creators can share their passions, build supportive communities, and engage with audiences through meaningful interactions. The platform offers opportunities to foster connection through authentic storytelling, creativity, and shared experiences. Through features such as Multi-Guest, creators can collaborate across borders, reach new audiences, and connect with the global TikTok community in more engaging and authentic ways.

Special Performances

To launch the campaign, a TikTok LIVE Find Your Voice competition was held, where creators were invited to perform an original song or cover that represents Pride, empowerment, and self-expression, highlighting the role of music as a powerful tool for storytelling and connection. It also showcased how TikTok LIVE serves as a launchpad for emerging artists, helping them grow their communities, develop their craft, and unlock new opportunities.

Among the winners were Ryssi Avila (@imryssi), who was named Top Creator and Pride Anthem Winner for her original song “For Real”, alongside fellow creators Criszl Luna (@crissypatata), Don Philip Dela Cerna (@iamdonphilip), Arnie Calacar (@arniecalacar27), and Ruthie Qadan (@ruthieqg0507). “For Real” will be available on Spotify and YouTube on July 3.

Building on the momentum of the competition, the top creators attended an exclusive mentorship session led by TikTok creator, neurolinguistic programming practitioner, and finalist of Drag Race Philippines Season 3, Tita Baby (@yourtitababy).

The session explored topics such as personal branding, authenticity, audience engagement, and mastering one’s craft, encouraging creators to embrace their unique voices and continue creating content that resonates with their communities. Through these initiatives, TikTok continues to support creators by not only providing a platform for expression, but also by equipping them with the tools, knowledge, and confidence to grow in their creative journeys.

Building community through Pride and self-expression

Drag superstar Popstar Bench lit up the stage with a high-energy performance, bringing the audience to its feet in a vibrant celebration of Pride, creativity, and self-expression.

The campaign culminated in a vibrant, music festival-inspired celebration that brought together creators, artists, allies, and members of the LGBTQIA+ community for an afternoon of music, creativity, progress, and Pride. Bursting with color and energy, the event featured performances from the winners of the TikTok LIVE competition, a Pride Runway showcase, and appearances by drag artists Tiny Deluxe (jayperpalma), who hosted the event, and Popstar Bench (popstar.bench). Other creators, such as Rica Salomon (@rica.salomon), Kylie Celebre(thekyliecelebre), Mikoella (@mikoesjayy) and Jamie Casino (thejamiecasino), were also in attendance.

“By empowering creators through campaigns such as #ForYourPride and supporting them with opportunities for learning and connection, we hope to inspire even more people to share their stories with confidence and pride,” added Bautista.

Through #ForYourPride, TikTok reaffirms its commitment to fostering diversity, inclusion, and belonging by celebrating LGBTQIA+ creators and allies who continue to shape culture through their creativity, authenticity, and stories, reminding everyone that finding your voice is not only about expressing yourself, but also about empowering others to do the same.