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How the DStv Content Creator Awards Are Evolving in Their Third Year

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DStv Content Creator Awards

In just a few short years, the DStv Content Creator Awards have evolved into a vital platform for recognising and celebrating the exceptional talent within South Africa’s digital content creation landscape. Founded by Manuela Dias De Deus, MD of communications agency One-eyed Jack, the awards were conceived from the realisation that while South Africa boasts incredibly talented digital creators, there was a glaring lack of recognition for their efforts.

The DStv Content Creator Awards fills this gap by providing a platform to showcase work and an ecosystem that supports both emerging and established creators. As entries for 2024 officially open, Manuela unpacks the origins, goals, and future of the awards, highlighting their profound impact on past winners and nominees and their expanding reach across Africa.

What did you hope these awards will achieve?

Our intention was to fill a gap in the industry not only by providing a platform to showcase content creators, but to create an ecosystem for emerging creators to have access to established creators, brands and agencies, with the aim of creating work and helping them monetise their content. The roll-out is significant, with mentorships, learning days, incubator workshops and webinars, all aimed at fostering opportunities, generating income, and fuelling creativity. We want to highlight the importance that digital creators have within the marketing and creative fields, and the impact they have shaping digital culture through their storytelling.

How do you select the nominees and winners for the awards?

The selection process for the DStv Content Creator Awards is rigorous and transparent. We have a diverse panel of judges comprising industry experts, influencers, and thought leaders who evaluate submissions based on creativity, originality, impact, and engagement. These submissions have been entered in by content creators or brands themselves. We also encourage public participation through voting in certain categories, ensuring that the audience has a voice in recognising their favourite creators. This dual approach ensures a balanced and fair evaluation of all nominees.

How has the public responded to the DStv Content Creator Awards so far?

The response from the public has been overwhelmingly positive. Audiences are thrilled to see their favourite creators being recognised and celebrated. We’ve seen a significant increase in engagement across all our channels, and the awards have sparked conversations about the importance of digital content creation. The support from the public has been instrumental in driving the success of the awards and highlights the impact these creators have on their communities.

What impact have the awards had on past winners and nominees?

The impact on past winners and nominees has been profound. Many have reported increased visibility and new opportunities for brand partnerships and collaborations. Some have even seen their follower counts and engagement metrics soar. Additionally, the credibility and recognition that come with winning a DStv Content Creator Award have opened doors for many creators, helping them to further their careers and expand their influence.

This year, the awards are expanding to the rest of Africa with the Pan-African Creator Award. Tell us more about that.

This new category marks a significant milestone in our mission to celebrate and recognise the outstanding talent across the entire African continent. The Pan-African Creator Award is designed to honour creators from various African countries who are making remarkable contributions to the digital space. By expanding our reach beyond South Africa, we aim to highlight the diversity and richness of African creativity and storytelling. This expansion allows us to bring together a broader spectrum of voices and perspectives, fostering a more inclusive and interconnected community of digital creators. Our vision for the Pan-African Creator Award is to create a platform where African digital creators can gain international visibility, attract global partnerships, and inspire a new generation of creators. By shining a spotlight on the incredible talent found throughout Africa, we hope to contribute to the growth and development of the digital content creation industry on the continent.

Closing off, where do you see these DStv Content Creator Awards going in the future?

Looking ahead, we envision the DStv Content Creator Awards to be the biggest initiative of its kind on the African continent, and it’s well on its way to being that, especially with the inclusion of the Pan-African Creator Award. After focusing purely on South African creators in the past two years, we’re so happy to have been able to extend the platform to include the continent now too. The impact of the awards is significant, it’s given creators work, brand endorsements and funding and has opened doors to new career paths for many. With ongoing support, we hope that it remains a beacon of excellence and inspiration, creating opportunities for creators to prosper and for their work to reach even greater heights.

Content creators and brands are encouraged to enter their work at www.contentcreatorawards.co.za before 21

Entertainment

DStv Delicious Festival Powered by LottoStar: Celebrating 30 Years of Creative Freedom

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DStv Delicious Festival

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.

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Mzansi Music

Joya Mooi’s ‘Open Hearts’ EP: A Vibrant Journey Through Identity and History

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JOYA MOOI

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.

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Christian Worship Leader Renee Pullum Unveils New Single “Holy You Reign”

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Renee Pullum

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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