TikTok, the leading short-form video platform, has announced its inaugural Visionary Voices List for Africa. This prestigious list recognizes 15 exceptional individuals at the forefront of industry-shifting innovation, viral trends, and cultural representation.
The Visionary Voices Africa List celebrates the significant impact these honorees have on media, entertainment, and cultural representation across the continent. They are celebrated in three categories: Creators, Small-Owned Businesses, and Industry Disruptors.
Creators
The Creators category acknowledges those who have captivated audiences with their engaging and dynamic content. From comedians and sports enthusiasts to dancers, these creators are expanding the possibilities of what can be achieved on the platform.
- @elsa.majimbo (Kenya) – Elsa Majimbo, a comedian from Kenya now residing in the US, gained international fame in 2020 with her viral skits. Known for her satirical monologues featuring potato chips, a laid-back mood, and tiny 1990s sunglasses, Elsa’s hilarious style has skyrocketed her to international fame. She now works as a full-time content creator and fashionista adored by stars like Beyoncé.
- @moghelingz (South Africa) – Banele Ndaba, known as Moghelingz, is celebrated for his relatable TikTok sketches that take a nostalgic journey through African culture. His account is all about engaging, educating, and entertaining his audience with satirical comedy, fabulousness, and dance, putting South African dance moves on the Afronation stage in Portugal recently.
- @chadjones (South Africa) – Chad Jones is a dynamic content creator from South Africa, famous for his dance videos featuring his family. They dance to a mix of gqom, kwaito, amapiano, and afrobeats styles, making the dances accessible to everyone through step-by-step tutorials.
- @arapuria (Kenya) – Arap Uria, with 1.5 million followers and 5.6 million views, is a sports content creator who combines a love for sports with creativity to entertain and educate. He is a go-to influencer and content creator for all things sports.
- @__iremide (Nigeria) – Iremide is a digital creator with a unique style, focusing on lifestyle, education, and community content. Winner of the TikTok Top Creator Awards 2023 in the Lifestyle and Education Category, she embraces the diversity of African culture in her content. An aspiring lawyer and law student, Iremide also showcases her entrepreneurial spirit through her flourishing shoe business.
Industry Disruptors
The Industry Disruptors category recognizes individuals who are challenging conventional industries with innovative perspectives. These pioneers are reshaping their fields and driving positive change, placing Africa on the global map.
- @burnaboyofficial (Nigeria) – Burna Boy, born Damini Ebunoluwa Ogulu, is a Nigerian Grammy Award-winning artist known for his Afrobeat, dancehall, reggae, and pop hits. His music resonates deeply with themes of social consciousness and African pride, contributing to his global acclaim.
- @hildabaci (Nigeria) – Hilda Effiong Bassey, popularly known as Hilda Baci, is a TV producer, actress, presenter, and entrepreneur. She runs My Food by Hilda and Hilda Baci Academy. Hilda’s passion for cooking, connecting with communities, and cinematography shines through her TikTok and social media videos. She holds the Guinness World Record for marathon cooking by an individual in 2023.
- @popi_sibiya (South Africa) – Popi Sibiya is a go-to African travel vlogger who inspires with a twist that challenges worldviews about the continent. As a storyteller, Popi raises awareness about issues happening in the countries she visits, most recently Congo.
- @thejoyofficialmus (South Africa) – The Joy mixes traditional Zulu beats with modern acapella vibes. They recently performed at Coachella alongside Doja Cat and have collaborations with The Blessed Madonna. Loved by Alicia Keys and Jennifer Hudson, The Joy’s music is rooted in hope and tradition, resonating with fans globally.
- @uncle.waffles (Swaziland) – Uncle Waffles, a Swazi-born DJ and record producer based in South Africa, is known for her vibrant stage presence and viral TikTok dance challenges. Celebrated for her work in the amapiano genre, she has been dubbed the ‘princess of amapiano’ by Billboard.
Small-Owned Businesses
In the Small-Owned Businesses category, TikTok honors entrepreneurs who use the platform to showcase their unique products and services. These businesses are revolutionizing their industries and demonstrating that vision, creativity, and success are intertwined.
- @dreadlocksnairobikenya (Kenya) – Mwangi Muthoni, the genius behind Dreadlocks Nairobi, has transformed his salon into Kenya’s hot spot for natural dreadlocks. With his flair for style and passion for locks, Mwangi makes sure every client leaves looking fabulous.
- @kaylakimkay (South Africa) – Kayla Kim Kay is a TikTok creator, entrepreneur, and influential business leader. As CEO of Afrocurl, she spearheads growth and innovation, earning acclaim as a top industry voice.
- @blaqboi__vic (Nigeria) – Blaqboi Victor, from Plateau State, Nigeria, is a TikTok creator, actor, and filmmaker. In 2023, he launched his own film production company, producing impactful short films. His innovative work has opened doors for directing music videos and starring in various productions.
- @bolobespoke (Kenya) – Bolo Bespoke, a fashion designer from Nairobi, uses TikTok to showcase his unique designs and the vibrant culture of his fashion house, Bespoke City. Having styled many Kenyan celebrities, Bolo has become a TikTok sensation.
- @Rethread_ (South Africa) – Alexa Schempers, the founder of the Cape Town-based fashion label Rethread, is a self-trained designer with a background in business and marketing. She champions sustainability and hosts thrift stores, offering unique, eco-friendly fashion choices.
Boniswa Sidaba, Head of Content Operations, Sub-Saharan Africa at TikTok, commented, “The Visionary Voices List Africa celebrates the extraordinary talent and innovative spirit of the African community. These 15 individuals have made a profound impact on and off the platform. Their dedication to cultural representation and innovation is truly inspiring.”
The Visionary Voices Africa List showcases the extraordinary accomplishments of these individuals and emphasizes TikTok’s role in driving creativity and innovation throughout the continent. Their influence is set to inspire the next generation of creators, entrepreneurs, and trailblazers, pushing the boundaries of media and cultural development across Africa.
