2025 TikTok New Icons: TikTok Honours Africa’s Biggest Creators of 2025
The TikTok community has spoken — and Africa has crowned a new generation of digital stars. The 2025 TikTok Awards Sub-Saharan Africa lit up Johannesburg on 6 December with a spectacular celebration of creativity, culture, and storytelling. Under the bold theme “New Era, New Icons,” the awards honoured the creators redefining influence and shaping conversations across the continent.
The evening was nothing short of electrifying. Guests enjoyed dazzling performances from top African talents including Ciza, Lord Kez, Thuli P, DJ Fif_Laa, and Thabsie. The dynamic Bontle Modiselle-Moloi hosted the ceremony with unmatched energy, while red carpet presenters Keegan Gordon and Zayaan Noorani captured every stylish moment. South African superstar Mihlali Ndamase made a surprise appearance to present Video of the Year, and renowned athlete Akani Simbine took the stage to honour the Sports Creator of the Year.
Supported by leading partner brands such as NIVEA, inDrive, Coca-Cola, PEP, and Dis-chem, the event showcased the rich diversity of Africa’s creator ecosystem. Winners hailed from Nigeria, South Africa, Kenya, Ghana, and Tanzania — a testament to TikTok’s commitment to uplifting voices that spark entertainment, education, and social impact.
Reflecting on the night, Boniswa Sidwaba, TikTok’s Head of Content Operations for Sub-Saharan Africa, shared:
“Tonight celebrated the trailblazers redefining what it means to create in Africa. From Sokoto to Nairobi and Accra to Pretoria, these creators have turned 60-second clips into cultural movements. We are proud to honour them as they share their stories from Africa to the world.”
Audiences across the continent will have another chance to relive the night’s glitz, performances, and emotional wins when the ceremony rebroadcasts exclusively on TikTok LIVE on 11 December at 20:00 SAST on the @tiktok.africa account.
2025 TikTok Awards Sub-Saharan Africa: Winners
Creator of the Year (Sponsored by NIVEA)
Winner: Raja’atu Muhammed Ibrahim — @diaryofanortherncook (Nigeria)
With cinematic visuals, northern rhythms, and authentic Nigerian cuisine, this Sokoto-based creator has captured a global audience through masterful food storytelling.
Storyteller of the Year (Sponsored by inDrive)
Winner: Brian Nwana — @briannwana (Nigeria)
From street interviews to personal narratives, Brian transforms food experiences into compelling human stories. His recent Guinness World Record for visiting the most fast-food restaurants in 24 hours underscores his originality.
“Every creator is a storyteller… we change the world’s perception of us,” he said during his acceptance speech.
Video of the Year
Winner: Fanuel John Masamaki — @zerobrainer0 (Tanzania)
Known for his iconic beige blazer and silent comedic take on football, the Tanzanian creator claimed this year’s award after previously winning Sports Creator of the Year in 2024.
“This win is for all of us,” he shared, thanking his fans.
Rising Star of the Year
Winner: @tunero_animations (Kenya)
Nairobi’s animation sensation continues to rise with characters like Bob Kichwa Ngumu, whose witty and stubborn personality resonates with audiences worldwide.
Runner-up: Esther Francis — @estherfrancisbackup (Nigeria)
Celebrated for making health information relatable and empowering.
Social Impact Creator of the Year (Sponsored by Dis-chem)
Winner: Dejoke Ogunbiyi — @noositiwantiwa_ (Nigeria)
From Ibadan, she uses her platform to highlight social issues, mobilise communities, and drive meaningful action.
Runner-up: Sinethemba Masinga — @ufarm_julia (South Africa)
Advocates for sustainability and proudly champions the future of farming.
Food Creator of the Year (Sponsored by Coca-Cola)
Winner: @malumfoodie (South Africa)
Pretoria’s beloved self-taught cook brings flavour, humour, and authentic South African street language (Spitori) into every video.
“From Hammanskraal to Soshanguve to South Africa — now we’re in Africa!” he celebrated.
Runner-up: Abena Amoakoaa Sintim-Aboagye — @chefabbys (Ghana)
A global ambassador for Ghanaian cuisine, recently recognised in TIME’s 2025 list of the 1000 most influential creators.
Sports Creator of the Year
Winner: John Maingi Mbugua — @zozasportscast (Kenya)
Delivering passionate and precise football commentary, the Zozasportscast team represents a new era of fan-led sports journalism.
“Winning isn’t the finish line — it’s fuel for the next chapter,” John said.
Runner-up: Victor Ademola — @ademolavictortv (Nigeria)
Celebrated for his energetic coverage of the Super Eagles and global football.
Entertainment Creator of the Year (Sponsored by PEP)
Winner: Belove Olocha — @beloveolocha (Nigeria)
Lagos’ standout creator captivates audiences with relatable movie content and engaging film recommendations.
Runner-up: Jabulani Macdonald — @jabu_macdonald (South Africa)
A quick-witted favourite in South Africa’s entertainment space.
Education Creator of the Year
Winner: Izzi Boye — @izziboye (Nigeria)
A trusted guide for digital tips, gadget insights, and tech hacks — proving TikTok is a powerful platform for learning.
Runner-up: @michelle_expert (South Africa)
Known for clear, actionable advice on careers, finance, personal development, and everyday decisions.
Artist of the Year
Winner: Crown Uzama (Shallipopi) — @theycallmeshallipopipp (Nigeria)
2025’s soundtrack belonged to Shallipopi. Dubbed “Pluto Presido,” he dominated charts and sparked viral trends, cementing Plutomania as the sound of a generation.
