Khaby Lame, the world’s most followed TikTok personality, has been appointed as a UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador, marking a new chapter in his efforts to support children’s rights.

The 24-year-old influencer, known for his viral videos where he communicates solely through gestures and expressions, addressed youth in his native Senegal on Friday, sharing his commitment to global issues affecting children.

Lame’s rise to fame began during the pandemic when he lost his job at a factory and turned to creating humorous and relatable content.

His unique approach, which involves reacting to everyday situations without speaking, earned him over 162 million followers worldwide.

In a statement following his appointment, Lame expressed pride in joining UNICEF, an organization dedicated to putting children’s rights at the forefront.

Reflecting on his own childhood struggles with poverty and finding his passion, Lame emphasized the importance of opportunities for children to thrive.

He also encouraged young people in Senegal, where over 60% of the population is under 25, to pursue their dreams despite challenges.

Senegal, a country marked by high rates of irregular migration, faces significant socio-economic pressures, particularly among its youth.

During his four-day visit to Senegal, Lame met with local children and young people driving positive change in their communities.

Lame, who moved to Italy with his family as an infant and later gained Italian citizenship, also reflected on his dual heritage, describing himself as both Senegalese and Italian.

His new role with UNICEF will allow him to use his platform to advocate for children’s rights globally.