In today’s fast-changing digital world, it’s important to think about how we engage with social media content, especially considering the mental health of many young people using these platforms.

Recognizing this critical aspect, TikTok MENAT organized a summit featuring two-panel discussions with experts discussing youth well-being, media literacy, and critical thinking skills in today’s digital world.

In the first panel titled Equipping Young Digital Citizens with Media Literacy and Critical Thinking Skills, Lynn Sutton, TikTok’s Head of Outreach and Partnerships, Trust and Safety EMEA, along with TikTok’s Safety Advisory Council members Naila Hamdy and Akin Unver, emphasized the importance of media literacy, especially for young people. They highlighted the necessity of informed discussions about safety and the importance of responding appropriately to crises.

Sutton said that TikTok is committed to maintaining a safe environment for all platform users. She emphasized that TikTok strives to equip users with the tools and support to engage with content safely and responsibly.

“Our community guidelines are designed to ensure that the platform remains a positive and inclusive space for everyone,” she adds. 

Hamdy stressed the significance of media literacy in navigating diverse content, especially in an era where information spreads quickly.

“It’s crucial to critically assess content and take appropriate action. We encourage young people not only to create content but also to become responsible digital citizens. Parents and educators play a central role in equipping young individuals with media literacy,” said Hamdy.

The second panel, titled Building Digital Communities for Youth Well-being, included Sutton, along with TikTok’s Safety Advisory Council member Maitha Mohamed and Jana Bou Reslan, a Lecturer of Educational Psychology.

The three panelists discussed how digital communities foster compassion among users and emphasized the importance of constructive dialogues and critical thinking.

Bou Reslan said, “Engaging parents is paramount to creating safe digital communities for the younger generation. Parents’ insights are valuable in creating important safety processes and guiding how the youth can interact with digital platforms in a healthy and responsible manner.”

The Innovation By Design Summit is in Doha on April 24. Attendance at the summit is by invitation only. Delegates can register here to receive their exclusive invite.