A New Era, New Icons: TikTok Honours Africa’s Biggest Creators Of 2025

The TikTok community has spoken, and Africa has crowned its newest icons. The 2025 TikTok Awards Sub-Saharan Africa lit up Johannesburg on 6 December, marking a powerful moment in the continent’s rapidly evolving creator landscape. Under the bold theme “New Era, New Icons,” TikTok honoured the creators who are reshaping culture, storytelling, and digital influence across the region.

Guests were treated to an electrifying night of glitz, glamour, and unforgettable performances from top African talents, including Ciza, Lord Kez, Thuli P, DJ Fif_Laa and Thabsie. Popular creator and entertainer Bontle Modiselle-Moloi commanded the stage as host, bringing unstoppable energy to the awards, while Red Carpet presenters Keegan Gordon and Zayaan Noorani captured every moment of fashion and flair. South African favourite Mihlali Ndamase made a surprise appearance to present the Video of the year award, while famous sports athlete Akani Simbine presented the Sport Creator of the Year Award.

Supported by partner brands like NIVEA, inDrive, Coca-Cola, PEP and Dis-chem, the event highlighted the diversity of the region’s creator landscape. Winners crowned hailed from Nigeria, South Africa, Kenya, Ghana, and Tanzania, reflecting TikTok’s commitment to elevating the voices shaping entertainment, education, and social impact across the continent.

Reflecting on the evening’s festivities, Boniswa Sidwaba, TikTok’s Head of Content Operations for Sub-Saharan Africa said, “Tonight’s ceremony was a gathering of the trailblazers who have redefined what it means to be a creator in Africa. From Sokoto to Nairobi, and Accra to Pretoria, we honoured the creators who turned 60-second clips into cultural movements. We are honoured to celebrate them as they amplify their voices and take their stories from Africa to the world.”

And the 2025 Winners are:

Creator of the Year (Sponsored by NIVEA)

Winner: Raja’atu Muhammed Ibrahim @ diaryofanortherncook (https://apo-opa.co/48nHsTU) (Nigeria)

Taking the night’s most prestigious title, @ diaryofanortherncook (https://apo-opa.co/48nHsTU) was recognised for her mastery of visual storytelling through food with the rich sounds of northern music. Based in Sokoto, the creator has captivated a global audience by documenting Northern Nigerian cuisine with that kind of cinematic flair that draws global attention to Nigerian food.

Storyteller of the Year (Sponsored by inDrive)

Winner: Brian Nwana @ briannwana (https://apo-opa.co/4poE4hp) (Nigeria)

Based in Abuja, @ briannwana (https://apo-opa.co/4poE4hp) claimed the Storyteller of the Year award through his food content. From street interviews to compelling personal narratives woven into his food adventures, Brian has a rare gift for capturing the human experience bite by bite. His content keeps audiences hooked from the first second to the last. His Guinness World Record (https://apo-opa.co/4pUqBxI) for the most fast-food restaurants visited in 24 hours is just the latest example of his bold, inventive approach to content.

Speaking while receiving his award, Brian Nwana said, “Every single creator is a storyteller. We all tell stories that help drive the local communities, our cities, and our countries, and when we do that we change the perception that the world has about us”.

Video of the Year

Winner: Fanuel John Masamaki @ zerobrainer0 (https://apo-opa.co/4oEfLuE) (Tanzania)

Tanzanian sports creator @ zerobrainer0 (https://apo-opa.co/4oEfLuE) makes a triumphant return, winning Video of the Year after securing Sports Creator of the Year in 2024. He has become a continent-wide fan favourite thanks to his signature beige blazer and his unique, silent comedy spin on football moments.

I am truly grateful to my fans and the love I have received from Tanzanians. Thank you so much . This win was for all of us.” Said John Masamaki while receiving his award.

Rising Star of the Year

Winner: @ tunero_animations (http://apo-opa.co/4oEfMic) (Kenya)

The future of African storytelling is animated. Celebrating the next generation of talent, the Rising Star award went to Nairobi-based @ tunero_animations (http://apo-opa.co/4oEfMic), who has carved out a niche with animated characters like Bob Kichwa Ngumu, whose clever, sarcastic and stubborn traits resonate with Kenyans and the world.

• Runner-up: Esther Francis @ estherfrancisbackup (https://apo-opa.co/49Ze2N7) (Nigeria), adds a creative and relatable flair to health information that empowers users on the platform with credible information.

Social Impact Creator of the Year (Sponsored by Dis-chem)

Winner: Dejoke Ogunbiyi @ noositiwantiwa_ (https://apo-opa.co/4oEfNTi) (Nigeria)

Using the platform for good, @ Noositiwantiwa_ (https://apo-opa.co/4oEfNTi) is driving conversations that matter. From Ibadan, she tackles social issues with grace and impact, mobilising her community for positive change.