Goodbye America, it's been fun & we will miss you

Written by Nic Fren - CEO of Bespoke Media

As America prepares to bid farewell to TikTok today, the shockwaves of this decision are being felt across the globe. TikTok wasn’t just an app; it was a cultural phenomenon—a space where creativity flourished, trends were born, and global communities connected like never before.

For Australians, the loss of American creators isn’t just about missing content; it’s about losing a bridge that fostered friendships, innovation, and shared experiences across continents.

As someone deeply invested in the power of digital platforms, I can confidently say that TikTok has been transformative. It has provided a stage for creators of all kinds and acted as a hub of innovation, creativity, and social connection.

Over 7 million Americans have relied on TikTok as a primary source of income, and for many, the platform has been a launchpad for careers in the arts and beyond. This decision by a small group of policymakers will affect not just these individuals but the global TikTok community at large.

Reflecting on its impact, I share the devastation of many users. Personally, TikTok has been a lifeline during some of the darkest times over the past few years. The platform has not only been a source of joy but also an incredible tool for connection and collaboration. To see this vibrant, creative, and supportive community diminished is heartbreaking.

The timing of this decision has also raised serious concerns.

With only nine individuals in the United States making a decision that impacts over 170 million users nationwide, it is hard not to question the logic behind it.

This move ignores the broader implications for freedom of expression and entrepreneurship, and it raises questions about the priorities driving such decisions.

For those who have built livelihoods through TikTok, the uncertainty is particularly distressing. Entrepreneurs and creatives are now scrambling to pivot their strategies to maintain their incomes and preserve their audiences.

TikTok has been more than just an entertainment platform; it has been a tool for education, a source of cultural exchange, and a lifeline for businesses and individuals during challenging times.

However, just because TikTok is being banned doesn’t mean it’s an automatic win for Facebook and Instagram (META). The pushback towards Mark Zuckerberg, CEO and Founder of Facebook, has been significant, especially given his heavy influence and campaigning to eliminate the app.

Many Americans see this as self-serving, particularly since TikTok is Chinese-owned, raising concerns over data privacy.

“I don’t think the next generation is as concerned about their data being made available as we might think,” says Nic Fren. “We are giving more data to Uber Eats than we are to TikTok, to be honest. They literally know where we live, and if you are buying alcohol, they are scanning our licences!”

As the U.S. government’s ban looms, there remains a glimmer of hope that this decision might be overturned or reconsidered under the incoming administration. However, for now, it appears that an important chapter in TikTok’s story is closing.

The global TikTok community will undoubtedly feel the absence of American creators. For Australians, this loss is particularly poignant, given the cultural and social bridges TikTok has built between the two nations.

To our American friends on TikTok: Thank you for the laughs, the trends, the stories, and the connections. You have made an indelible mark on this platform, and your absence will be deeply felt.

Let us hope for a swift resolution that allows TikTok’s vibrant community to thrive once again. Until then, I wish you all the best.

Nic