The Power of Play and Community: How Zebras, Meetup, and TikTok Unite

The Power of Play and Community: How Zebras, Meetup, and TikTok Unite

Introduction:
In a world dominated by unicorns, Zebras rise as a refreshing alternative. Zebras are startups that prioritize diversity, practicality, and accountability to the people they serve. Meetup, a long-standing example of a Zebra company, embodies the values of bringing people together, staying mission-focused, and embracing serendipity. These principles resonate with the belief in the good of humanity and the potential for collective achievement. Meanwhile, TikTok, a popular social media platform, taps into the transformative power of play and community. This article explores the common threads that connect Zebras, Meetup, and TikTok, highlighting the importance of rethinking traditional models, embracing diversity, and harnessing the liberating effects of play.

Zebras and Meetup: Building for the People
Zebras Unite, a movement advocating for a shift in how startups function, believes that genuine diversity cannot be achieved through conventional diversity programs. Instead, they propose reimagining how startups work, are funded, and who they are built for. A key aspect of this vision involves Meetup, a platform that brings people together. Zebras Unite envisions Meetup as a company that incorporates democratic decision-making in its pricing structure, allowing organizers and members to shape it while being rewarded for their contributions. This communal approach fosters a sense of ownership and empowers the community.

TikTok: From Play to Transformation
TikTok, a platform known for its short videos, taps into the power of play and transformation. Play, as US playwright Sarah Ruhl explains, allows us to try on new ways of being and being with others. It liberates us from familiar circumstances and propels us into fantasies. This resonates with the Victorian era's fascination with amateur play, where simple games and theatrical productions allowed people to explore different roles and emotions. Johan Huizinga, a Dutch historian, argued that play promotes the formation of lasting social groupings, transcending the boundaries of the game. Similarly, TikTok provides a space for individuals to become heroes or villains, blurring the lines between reality and make-believe.

The Contemporary Grotesque: Play and Transformation
In the realm of TikTok, bodily transformation and grotesque expressions hold significance, particularly in times of social uncertainty. The allure of watching young TikTokers engage in dangerous or socially threatening play lies in their blissful disregard for consequences. The contemporary grotesque goes beyond visual aesthetics; it encompasses the emotions evoked by transformative experiences. This is evident in the quitmyjob trend, where individuals choreograph their resignations as a playful act fueled by long-withheld dreams. Play, in its challenging nature, allows us to break free from societal norms and embrace the transformative power of imagination.

Actionable Advice:

1. Embrace collective decision-making: Like Meetup, consider incorporating democratic models in your organization or community projects. Allow individuals to shape the direction and pricing structures, fostering a sense of ownership and shared responsibility.
2. Prioritize play and imagination: Encourage playfulness and creativity in everyday life. Embrace the transformative power of play, whether through amateur theater, games, or digital platforms like TikTok. Step outside familiar circumstances and explore new possibilities.
3. Support diverse and accountable startups: Look beyond the unicorn mentality and support Zebras—startups that prioritize diversity, practicality, and community accountability. By aligning with companies that share your values, you contribute to a more inclusive and sustainable entrepreneurial ecosystem.

Conclusion:
Zebras, Meetup, and TikTok all exemplify the power of community, diversity, and play. They challenge traditional models, foster collective decision-making, and empower individuals to explore new identities and possibilities. By incorporating these principles into our lives and embracing the transformative effects of play, we can create a more inclusive and vibrant society. Let us strive to build for the people, unite in community, and harness the liberating power of play.