Tribela: A New Kind of Online Space for Young People
A new social platform, Tribela, promises a safer space for under-18s online. The app was created through Oxford University Innovation, bringing together academics, students, and alumni. Its goal is simple — to create a calm, constructive, and secure online community for younger users.
Founder Natalie Boll believes social media isn’t the problem itself. However, she says the way platforms are designed and regulated often causes harm. “It’s about how we build and manage these spaces,” she explained.
Designed with Safety in Mind
What makes Tribela stand out is its focus on safety features and a unique recommendation system. According to Boll, these elements form the “magic” that separates it from other platforms.
She spent two decades working in media but didn’t fully grasp social media’s darker side until she saw its impact on her own children. Her daughter’s experiences, in particular, inspired her to take action.
“Something really needed to be done,” she said. “We had to create a place where younger users could engage safely and positively.”
Tribela aims to be that place — a digital space designed with empathy, balance, and care. As online safety becomes a growing concern, the app hopes to redefine what healthy social media looks like for the next generation.
