Social enterprise empowers seniors through TikTok, student mentorship

A social enterprise has launched an innovative programme pairing senior citizens with student volunteers to unlock their potential as digital content creators on TikTok. The collaboration leverages the enthusiasm and technical expertise of young mentors to guide older adults through social media basics and smartphone navigation.

The initiative addresses a growing digital divide affecting Singapore's ageing population, many of whom lack confidence or knowledge when using modern technology. Through hands-on training sessions, seniors learn to create and share video content, turning them into unexpected TikTok personalities while building practical digital skills applicable to everyday life.

Student volunteers from LaSalle have been instrumental in the programme's success, providing patient instruction and encouragement to participants. The mentorship model creates a mutually beneficial arrangement, with younger volunteers gaining experience in teaching and community engagement while seniors discover new ways to express themselves and stay connected.

The programme reflects broader efforts across the region to bridge generational technology gaps and empower older adults to participate more fully in the digital world. By combining entertainment with education, the social enterprise demonstrates how unlikely partnerships can create meaningful social impact and foster intergenerational understanding.