TikTok without barriers: Ukraine launches blogging course for teenagers with disabilities
Ukrainian teenagers with disabilities are invited to join a free TikTok blogging course — HIT (Hub of Inclusive TikTok). This educational space is designed for 14–18-year-olds who want to learn how to shoot videos, run a blog, and become part of an inclusive TikTok community.
The project equips teenagers with tools for self-expression, makes the stories of people with disabilities visible, and fosters a new generation of inclusive influencers.
HIT was created as part of UNICEF’s “Kids as Kids” campaign, with the support of the Advisor – Presidential Commissioner for Children’s Rights and Child Rehabilitation Daria Herasymchuk, in partnership with NGO Vidchuy, Oschadbank, and 1+1 media school.
“It’s important that teenagers with disabilities have access not only to quality education but also to tools for self-expression. HIT breaks down barriers in perception and proves that every child has a voice and the right to be heard. We are creating a space where talents and dreams become visible, and personal stories inspire and change perceptions of what’s possible,” said Daria Herasymchuk, Advisor – Presidential Commissioner for Children’s Rights and Child Rehabilitation.
What participants can expect:
- 4 months of free training with top bloggers and experts from 1+1 media school — all sessions accompanied by sign language interpretation;
- 12 online lectures and offline meetings;
- TikTok filming, editing, trends, and algorithm insights;
- Videos reaching millions of views and the chance to shine;
- Peer support and a new community.
“For many years, Oschadbank has consistently advanced inclusivity, with special focus on people with disabilities and veterans. One of the key steps was the My Accessibility program, which helps create an accessible environment for all Ukrainians. Partnering with HIT is a natural continuation of this work, as we believe there should be no barriers — neither in a bank branch nor on social media,” commented Anton Tiutiun, Deputy Chairman of the Management Board of Oschadbank responsible for retail business.
How can teenagers join HIT?
- Fill out the application form by August 27, 2025 — https://forms.gle/7XhoBavmH6NpxvK88 ;
- Complete an online interview with the project team;
Upon acceptance — start training in October 2025.
This is the second time the Inclusive TikTok Hub is bringing teenagers together for training. Last year, the project received over 200 applications, and videos created during the course were viewed more than 1.5 million times.
“Research shows that almost half of Ukrainians do not see people with disabilities in their daily lives. This means that barriers still exist not only in the physical environment but also in perception. HIT helps change this reality — it gives teenagers with disabilities the opportunity to be visible, tell their own stories, and shape a new culture of equality in the digital space,” UNICEF notes.
“HIT is an amazing environment with engaged mentors and coordinators — like an online school that teaches you how to create and manage an inclusive TikTok. When you talk about your challenges, people listen and help,” shared last year’s HIT participants.
“We believe that everyone should have access to quality education. That’s why we support initiatives that help young people, especially those with disabilities, develop in the media sphere. Our goal is to create platforms where everyone can learn to work with social media, produce video content, and bring their ideas to life,” said Anastasia Kuzmenko, Head of 1+1 media school.
Teenagers with disabilities aged 14–18 from all over Ukraine can apply by August 27, 2025 via the website — https://forms.gle/7XhoBavmH6NpxvK88.
More information: https://www.unicef.org/ukraine/hit2
