A newly launched virtual community on TikTok, HillmanTok University, is providing free academic lessons on Black culture, history, and creativity. This digital space offers lessons on topics ranging from historical events to pop culture, allowing people to learn in an engaging way.
Founded by Cierra Hinton, a sixth-grade math teacher, the platform was inspired by Dr. Leah Barlow’s African American Studies course videos on TikTok. Since its launch, HillmanTok University has grown into a vibrant community, making higher education more accessible to audiences worldwide.
For decades, Black history has often been overlooked or minimized in traditional education. Many students receive limited instruction on figures such as Martin Luther King Jr. and Rosa Parks, without a broader discussion of the Black experience. HillmanTok University aims to change that by offering a space where Black history is fully explored. Through short videos, the platform provides lessons on topics like the Harlem Renaissance and the cultural significance of hip-hop.
Social media, particularly TikTok, has reshaped how people consume information, making education more interactive and accessible. While TikTok is often associated with viral challenges and dance trends, it has also emerged as a valuable educational tool. The platform’s short-form video format allows creators to break down complex topics in engaging, digestible ways, reaching audiences who may not actively seek out traditional academic resources.
“I think it’s a good platform because it gets the youth involved. It teaches them in a way that they’re used to,” said Cameron Keys, a senior at the University of Southern Mississippi.
For younger audiences who may not encounter these lessons in school due to curriculum limitations, HillmanTok University fills a critical gap.
“I think using TikTok as a platform to learn from is very beneficial because of the reach TikTok has,” said D’Aza McGee, a freshman at USM. “It’s so accessible to younger people that they can learn things they probably wouldn’t have learned at school because of censorship.”
The platform’s accessibility is a significant strength. Unlike traditional educational institutions that require tuition and structured schedules, TikTok allows learning to occur anywhere at any time. This flexibility is especially valuable for individuals who may not have access to formal Black studies courses in their schools or communities.
“It’s very good to have people you can see that look like you and are talking about your history,” McGee added.
As HillmanTok University continues to grow, it stands as an example of how social media can be used for more than entertainment. By making Black history and culture widely accessible, the platform is helping shape a new generation of informed, engaged learners.
