TikTok has ushered in a fresh wave of cultural trendsetters, honouring Africa’s most impactful digital voices at the 2025 TikTok Awards Sub-Saharan Africa.
The star-packed event, held on December 6 in Johannesburg, South Africa, celebrated creators who are redefining narratives, sparking creativity, and influencing culture across the continent — with Nigerian talents ranking among the night’s top achievers.
Attendees were treated to electrifying performances from Ciza, Lord Kez, Thuli P, DJ Fif_Laa, and Thabsie. The ceremony was anchored by renowned entertainer Bontle Modiselle-Moloi, with Keegan Gordon and Zayaan Noorani hosting the dazzling red-carpet experience.
TikTok noted that the awards honour the most influential and inspirational creators across Sub-Saharan Africa, spotlighting creativity, community impact, and digital influence. The 2025 edition celebrates individuals whose content has inspired, connected, and shaped audiences both online and in real life.
Speaking on the awards, Boniswa Sidwaba, TikTok’s Head of Content Operations for Sub-Saharan Africa, stated:
“Tonight’s event brought together the pioneers who have reshaped the meaning of content creation in Africa. From Sokoto to Nairobi and Accra to Pretoria, we celebrated the creatives who transformed 60-second videos into powerful cultural movements.”
The full ceremony will be rebroadcast on TikTok LIVE on December 11 at 20:00 SAST on the @tiktok.africa account.
NIGERIAN WINNERS — 2025
1. Social Impact Creator of the Year
Winner: Dejoke Ogunbiyi — @noositiwantiwa_
From Ibadan, she uses TikTok to spotlight social issues and mobilise communities for positive change.
Runner-up: Sinethemba Masinga — @ufarm_julia (South Africa)
2. Creator of the Year
Winner: Raja’atu Muhammed Ibrahim — @diaryofanortherncook
Her cinematic storytelling around Northern Nigerian cuisine captivated global audiences. Based in Sokoto, she was praised for combining visuals, food and Northern music effortlessly.
3. Storyteller of the Year
Winner: Brian Nwana — @briannwana
The Abuja-based creator blends food, interviews and human-centred narratives. His Guinness World Record for visiting the most fast-food restaurants in 24 hours showcased his creative range.
“Every creator is a storyteller… when we tell our stories, we change perceptions,” Brian said.
4. Rising Star of the Year
Runner-up: Esther Francis — @estherfrancisbackup
Recognised for simplifying health content in fun, accessible and empowering ways.
Winner (Regional): @tunero_animations — Kenya
5. Sports Creator of the Year
Runner-up: Victor Ademola — @ademolavictortv
Celebrated for driving energetic conversations around Nigerian football and the Super Eagles.
Winner (Regional): John Maingi Mbugua — @zozasportscast (Kenya)
6. Entertainment Creator of the Year
Winner: Belove Olocha — @beloveolocha
Honoured for her entertaining, movie-driven content and community-focused storytelling.
Runner-up: Jabulani Macdonald — @jabu_macdonald (South Africa)
7. Education Creator of the Year
Winner: Izzi Boye — @izziboye
Awarded for simplifying tech, gadgets, and digital hacks for audiences across Africa.
Runner-up: @michelle_expert (South Africa)
8. Artist of the Year
Winner: Crown Uzama (Shallipopi) — @theycallmeshallipopipp
With Plutomania dominating 2025, Shallipopi was named one of Africa’s defining musical voices.
“Thank you, TikTok, for supporting upcoming artists and giving them a spotlight,” he said.
OTHER AFRICAN WINNERS
1. Video of the Year
Winner: Fanuel John Masamaki — @zerobrainer0 (Tanzania)
Known for his silent comedy football skits and signature beige blazer.
2. Rising Star of the Year
Winner: @tunero_animations (Kenya)
Creator of viral animated characters like Bob Kichwa Ngumu.
3. Food Creator of the Year
Winner: @malumfoodie (South Africa)
Runner-up: @chefabbys (Ghana)
4. Sports Creator of the Year
Winner: John Maingi Mbugua — @zozasportscast (Kenya)
5. Entertainment Creator of the Year — Runner-up
Jabulani Macdonald — @jabu_macdonald (South Africa)
6. Social Impact Creator — Runner-up
Sinethemba Masinga — @ufarm_julia (South Africa)
