Entertainment
DStv Content Creator Awards winners list
DStv Content Creator Awards, in association with Samsung Galaxy, celebrates exceptional local content and creativity with announcement of this year’s winners. Hundreds of guests. Almost 40,000 public votes. More than 90 nominees. 19 winners. One unforgettable night.
The Galleria in Sandton was alight with colours of purple and pink this past Saturday, 9 September, as the DStv Content Creator Awards, in Association with Samsung Galaxy, took centre stage. It wasn’t just another awards night but the biggest night in South African content creation.
You felt the buzz on social media leading up to the awards, and it came alive as nominees, guests, and fans thronged the Purple Carpet, with the awards’ TikTok Live giving viewers online access to the glitz and glam. Some of the personalities spotted on the carpet included Lasizwe, K Naomi, Julia Anastasopoulos, Pona Halo, Nomuzi ‘Moozlie’ Mabena, Kim Jayde, Candice Modiselle, Matt Flax, Farieda Metsileng, Carol Ofori, Karabo Poppy, Kefilwe Mabote and Lemii LoCo.
Donovan Goliath, the award-winning comedian and content creator, hosted the awards and navigated the night with energy and humour. Live music was curated and performed by SA legends Black Motion.
One of the country’s most powerful storytellers, authors, playwrights and performers, Gcina Mhlophe, officially opened the awards by reading a beautiful poem and blessing the awards and all the attendees, nominees and winners.
The show then kicked off with Bontle Modiselle Dance Studio lighting up the stage, accompanied by the Dance Award category nominees, 250Machine, Adriaan Hughes, Justin De Nobrega, Kelly KiKx and Mr NT.
A special moment was when the awards’ founder, Manuela Dias de Deus, expressed her vision for the awards. “Our idea has always been to put creators on the radar and open doors for emerging and established talent. The youth’s potential to monetise their content and create job opportunities is immense,” said Manuela. “More so, our vision is to make the awards the biggest event of its kind on the continent. We want to continue to grow and be on everyone’s feeds.”
Big dreams translated into big moments on the stage and throughout the night. The show was interrupted by unplanned loadshedding. Jokes guys! It was Suzelle DIY, who made a special guest appearance on stage to give the audience a good laugh and some tips on how to flip loadshedding on its head and to keep making entertaining content.
Ami Faku gave a powerful solo performance, while Birth of Stars paid tribute to the LGBTQI+ community, showcasing the journey of three young SA creatives: Kamo WW, Coachella Randy and Kagiso Mogola.
Bontle Modiselle and Lasizwe teamed up to perform a killer skit, paying homage to Beyoncé’s recent world tour, where she brought out Blue Ivy to perform the song “My Power”. The crowd went nuts. A powerhouse line-up of personalities presented the awards across the 19 categories, handing over the trophies specially designed by visual artist Shaun Oakley (aka Damn Vandal). The presenters included African Ginger, Kim Jayde, 947’s Matt Flax, Moozlie, Farieda Metsileng, Suzelle DIY aka Tali Babes, Tshepiso Sathekge and Renaldo Schwarp from MultiChoice and Kgomotso Mosiane from Samsung.
The awards also used the night to announce the launch of the Thumb Stopper Podcast which will give fans candid, intimate and behind-the-scenes access to some of their favourite content creators and influencers across South Africa. It launches exclusively on Spotify Podcasts for the first month. The awards celebrated 19 creators, with the first OG Award going to none other than Mihlali Ndamase. Her close friend, Lasizwe, did the honours of announcing the first-ever OG Award winner with a goosebumps moment of recognition for Mihlali and her achievements. As Mihlali couldn’t be there to accept her award, Lasizwe invited her mother, Mam Phumla Tshitende, onto the stage to receive the trophy.
The 2023 DStv Content Creator Awards winners are:
Cause/Social Commentary Award
Doctor Siya
Funniest Content Creator Award
Ikho Kweba
Visual Arts Award
Karabo Poppy
Best Brand Collaboration Award
essenceMediacom for Gillette #IndodaCanShave
Sports Fan Award
Lemii LoCo
Fashion & Style Award
Kefilwe Mabote
Emerging Creator Award, presented by 947
God’s Butler
Podcast of the Year Award, presented by Spotify
Podcast and Chill with MacG
Podcast Special Mention, presented by Spotify
African Story Magic with Gcina Mhlophe
Automotive Award
Juliet Mc Guire
Knowledge Sharing Award
Becoming Dr Andy
Thumb-Stopping Award
Donovan Goliath
The OG Award
Mihlali Ndamase
Alter-Ego Award
Sipho2Skiits – August (That Mozambican Dude)
Foodie Award
Mush Kitchen
Travel & Lifestyle Award, presented by LIFT
Wander with Iana
Dance Award
Justin de Nobrega
Sol Content Creator Award
Mandisi
Song of the Year Award
AKA ft. Nasty C – ‘Lemons (Lemonade)’
DStv Content of the Year Award
Tums the Narrator
“Telling great stories is in our DNA, and partnering with the DStv Content Creator Awards aligns with who we are as a business. We see the need to enrich the lives of young storytellers and encourage them to tell their own stories in their own way. We are thrilled to be part of this journey for the second year running and even more excited to see the winners coming out of this year,” says Tshepiso Sathekge, Senior Manager: Sponsorship, Multichoice SA.
The DStv Content Creator Awards is possible thanks to the commitment of like-minded brands and partners. A big shout-out to DStv, Samsung, 947, TikTok, Spotify, SOL, Steyn Entertainment, LIFT, Converse and One-eyed Jack. The journey of championing content creators is complete with their unwavering support.
To catch highlights from the night, hit up #DStvCCA on social media and head to the website for official event photos. A TV special of this year’s show will air on DStv Catch-Up later this year; more details to follow.
Entertainment
DStv Delicious Festival Powered by LottoStar: Celebrating 30 Years of Creative Freedom
The DStv Delicious International Food & Music Festival Powered by LottoStar is back for its 11th year, taking place at the iconic Kyalami Grand Prix Circuit on 21 and 22 September! This year, the festival is not just about music and food—it’s a grand celebration marking 30 years of South Africa’s democracy, themed “30 Years of Creative Freedom.” This tribute highlights the boundless creativity that defines our vibrant nation.
The festival promises an extraordinary experience, featuring a tantalizing array of culinary delights, cutting-edge fashion, and, of course, a stellar music lineup that will make the weekend unforgettable.
Saturday’s Lineup:
The first day of the festival will be headlined by global sensation Janet Jackson, alongside local icons Thandiswa Mazwai and G-Force. A special “30 Years of Creative Freedom” show will showcase a spectacular ensemble of South Africa’s finest talent, including Cassper Nyovest, Robot Boii, Reason, Maggz, Touchline, Yanga Chief, Focalistic, Okmalumkoolkat, and Morafe.
For those ready to dance, the Channel O Dance Stage Powered by Johnny Walker Blonde will keep the energy high throughout the day. Saturday kicks off with Drihanna, followed by DJs PH and Venom, and the vibe will continue to rise with Kabza De Small. Nkosazana Daughter and Mthunzi will ignite the crowd, leading to an electrifying set by DJ Kyotic. Sizwe Alakine (also known as Reason) and Focalistic will elevate the party, while Dlala Thukzin will close the night on a high note.
Sunday’s Highlights:
The second day brings a soulful mix with performances by Jill Scott, Sjava, Soweto Gospel Choir, and The Maestro. The festival will continue with another special show celebrating South Africa’s musical legends, featuring Yvonne Chaka Chaka, Mzwakhe Mbuli SNR, Jesse Clegg, Zolani Mahola, Sipho “Hotstix” Mabuse, and more.
As the festival transitions into the evening, the Channel O Dance Stage Powered by Johnny Walker Blonde will once again heat up. DJ Kent will kick off the evening with a blend of Afro-tech and deep house rhythms, setting the stage for Musica Feliz and Summer Daze. Shimza, known for his dynamic DJing and production skills, will follow, bringing his unique flair to the festival. Sun-El Musician and Mörda (formerly Murdah Bongz) will close out the festival with an unforgettable performance, ensuring a memorable end to the weekend.
Join us at the DStv Delicious Festival Powered by LottoStar for a weekend of unparalleled music, food, and celebration as we honor 30 years of creative freedom and South Africa’s vibrant cultural tapestry.
Mzansi Music
Joya Mooi’s ‘Open Hearts’ EP: A Vibrant Journey Through Identity and History
Joya Mooi’s ‘Open Hearts’ EP: A Vibrant Journey Through Identity and History. South African-Dutch singer-songwriter Joya Mooi has just unveiled her latest EP, Open Hearts, a dynamic collection that delves deep into themes of identity and historical reflection. Released on August 30 via Unity Records, the six-track project is a vibrant exploration of self-discovery and tribute to historical figures, marking a new chapter in Mooi’s evolving musical journey.
Following her critically acclaimed double album What’s Around The Corner released in January 2023, Mooi continues to blend contemporary R&B with elements of electronic, neo-soul, and beyond. Her previous album garnered over 5 million streams and significant international recognition for its introspective themes and innovative sound. With Open Hearts, Mooi shifts her sonic direction, infusing pop and indie influences into her signature style, reflecting her evolution as an artist.
The EP opens with the previously released single “Poster Child,” inspired by Dutch painter and actress Nola Hatterman’s 1930 work Op het terras. This track captures the essence of overlooked talent through a vibrant production that resonates with summer sunshine. The title track, “Open Hearts,” celebrates South African surgeon Hamilton Naki, who gained acclaim for his role in a heart transplant during apartheid despite lacking formal medical training. The song’s shimmering, anthemic quality symbolizes triumph and resilience.
“No Holding Back” continues the EP’s celebration of underrepresented figures, spotlighting Jamaican-born football player Beverly Ranger with a dream-like sound and Mooi’s lush vocals. The introspective track “I Can Almost Say” deals with anxiety, combining electronic influences with ethereal synths to evoke a sense of growth and renewal. “Don’t Answer” tackles personal boundaries and the importance of solitude, delivered with a heartfelt and sweet tone.
The EP concludes with “Overlooked Ghosts,” featuring Gracy Hopkins, which draws inspiration from the tragic events of the Congo genocide. The collaboration highlights solidarity and remembrance, blending Mooi’s warm vocals with Hopkins’ modern hip-hop sound to address grief and historical consciousness.
Joya Mooi’s Open Hearts not only showcases her ability to weave personal and collective experiences into her music but also reinforces her position as a leading voice in modern R&B. With a rich tapestry of genres and a commitment to amplifying untold stories, Mooi continues to make waves in the music industry. Her unique background—a blend of South African heritage and Dutch upbringing—enriches her artistry, making her one of the most compelling voices in contemporary music.
For more on Joya Mooi and her groundbreaking work, keep an eye out for her upcoming features in major publications and streaming platforms.
Entertainment
Christian Worship Leader Renee Pullum Unveils New Single “Holy You Reign”
Christian singer, songwriter, and worship leader Renee Pullum is excited to announce the release of her latest single, “Holy You Reign,” set to drop on August 30, 2024. Renowned for her powerful vocals and fervent passion for worship, Renee’s new track promises to be a stirring anthem that celebrates the holiness and eternal sovereignty of God.
“Holy You Reign” is more than just a song—it’s a heartfelt invitation to worship and an opportunity to experience the majesty of God. With lyrics that exalt God’s divinity and the everlasting nature of His kingdom, the song is designed to fill hearts with adoration and guide listeners into a profound worship experience. Renee shares, “I want this song to remind people of God’s greatness and encourage them to lift their voices in praise. It’s about acknowledging His sovereignty and joining in a declaration of His eternal reign.”
About Renee Pullum:
Based in Atlanta, Georgia, Renee Pullum is a distinguished worship pastor who leads alongside her husband, Allen. With over thirty years in ministry, Renee’s mission is to unite people from diverse backgrounds in worship within a multi-cultural and multi-generational setting. As a breast cancer survivor, she is passionate about the transformative power of worship, believing it can create an environment where miracles and divine encounters happen.
Renee boasts an impressive music ministry background, having collaborated with acclaimed groups and labels such as Maverick City Music, Housefires, Tribal Music, Integrity Music, The Agape Music Group, LaRue Howard, and Hope & Life Fellowship. She has also co-written and performed on singles like “FIRE + RAIN” and worked with artists like 1K Phew on “So In Love” and Renwick Duesbury on “Great & Mighty.”
In addition to her musical contributions, Renee is an accomplished speaker and teacher, sharing her message at various seminars and conferences. Her commitment to ministry extends beyond music, focusing on helping individuals experience a genuine and life-changing encounter with God.
Renee and Allen Pullum have been married for 37 years and are proud parents to two children, Nicholas and Maritza. Together, they continue to serve in ministry, dedicating their lives to worship and nurturing the church community.
Follow Renee on social media: @reneepullum
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