Gloria Hong Urges Media to Embrace TikTok

In today’s digital era, Gloria Hong, Co-Founder and Marketing Director of Samedia Limited, champions TikTok as a powerful tool to amplify community voices and drive meaningful social media engagement.

Speaking at the Best Use of Social Media Workshop—proudly supported by BBC Media Action and facilitated by the Media Association of Solomon Islands (MASI)—Hong shared her personal journey from over a decade in the private and public sectors to fully dedicating herself to her family-run media organization in 2017.

She said to group of reporters that digital platforms like TikTok are no longer just entertainment tools—they are powerful instruments for storytelling, advocacy, and even economic opportunity.

“TikTok isn't just a trend,” said Hong. “It’s a storytelling format that, when used wisely, can drive awareness, influence mainstream media, and support grassroots development.”

As the app grows in popularity globally, including in Solomon Islands, Hong highlighted its strength in audience reach and real-time engagement—particularly among young people.

She cited how TikTok’s rapid format has been used to share breaking news and viral content ahead of traditional media.

But the opportunity doesn’t stop there. For freelancers and small media outlets in the Solomon Islands, TikTok presents monetization potential through brand partnerships and live gifting features, although some limitations—such as geographical restrictions on subscription-based monetization—still exist.

Hong also emphasized TikTok’s flexibility and creativity. “You don’t need professional skills to create engaging content. TikTok provides templates that make it easy for anyone to start.”

However, she also warned of risks, especially around privacy concerns, misinformation, and wasting time without strategy or purpose.

Gloria is passionate about advocating for good governance, positive development in general and empowering young women and girls in the Solomon Islands.

She said, “As someone came from a family of seven sisters, I’ve always had a soft heart for women and girls. Empowering their voices through digital media is one way to build a stronger, more inclusive Solomon Islands”.

The "Best Use of Social Media" workshop is part of a wider regional initiative aimed at strengthening digital media skills across the Pacific. Supported by BBC Media Action, the initiative focuses on enhancing the capacity of media professionals to navigate and leverage social media effectively in their work.