Two Kenyan TikTok creators, Trevor Were and Cherie Kihato, have made this year’s TikTok Global Discover List 2026.
The global list spotlights 50 of the most influential creators shaping culture worldwide.
Were and Kihato’s feature marks a proud moment for Kenya’s growing influence in the global creator economy.
They are among five creators from Sub-Saharan Africa.
Were – known online as @saute_with_trevor – will participate in the TikTok x Food Network Future of Flavor event in New York, further elevating Kenyan culinary talent on the world stage.
Announced on February 26, the list celebrates creators across five categories — icons, innovators, foodies, educators and originators — who are shaping conversations, influencing industries and building sustainable careers through short-form video.
Featured under the “Foodies” category, Were has built a loyal following by transforming simple, everyday meals into accessible yet exciting dishes from his Nairobi kitchen.
A self-taught chef, Were’s content demystifies cooking while celebrating flavour, creativity and consistency.
TikTok x Food Network live culinary showcase Were is set to participate in brings together emerging food creators from TikTok’s Discover List and Food Network’s Hot List.
“It’s truly an honour to be nominated as a Foodie on The Discover List and to be part of the Food Network event. I never imagined that something that started on my kitchen counter could grow into such incredible opportunities," Were said.
"I feel seen and recognised not just by my fellow Kenyans, but by people around the world. This journey has opened doors to greater recognition and exciting brand collaborations. Stay consistent—what feels impossible today can become your moment tomorrow."
His inclusion underscores the increasing international appetite for African food storytelling and the power of digital platforms to export homegrown talent to global audiences.
Kihato, who is featured in the “Originators” category, is the founder of Savannah Space, a Nairobi-based design studio and showroom.
Kihato uses TikTok to showcase African heritage through furniture, art and interiors.
Through storytelling and behind-the-scenes content, she has expanded her brand’s reach far beyond Kenya, building a global audience invested in African craftsmanship and contemporary design.
Kihato described the nomination as validation that African brands deserve global respect and visibility.
By documenting her entrepreneurial journey, she has not only grown her business but also inspired other creatives to share their stories boldly online.
Other Sub-Saharan creators on the list include medical educator Olawale Ogunlana from Nigeria and South African entrepreneurs Wayne Chang and Tamia Nontsikelelo.
TikTok says the 2026 Discover List was curated through a global nomination process assessing impact over the past six months, including engagement, growth, creativity and the ability to spark meaningful conversations.
The platform’s global head of content operations James Stafford said the list celebrates creators who inspire communities, build businesses and redefine success in their industries.
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