The South African Social Media Awards (SASMA) celebrated its 5th anniversary with a powerful showcase of South Africa’s most influential digital voices.
Under the theme “ROYALTY – Kings & Queens of Mzansi,” this year’s ceremony honoured the creators who continue to shape culture, spark trends, and build communities across the digital landscape. The night was steered by the dynamic duo Weza Matomane and Zanele Potelwa, whose humour, chemistry, and energetic stage command helped bring the royal theme to life.
Their charisma ensured a seamless flow to a spectacular evening. The Red Carpet Hosts, PD Jokes & Musa Khawula kept the attendees entertained and excited about the night. SASMAs welcomed the who’s who of the Social Media on the Red Carpet, who were excited for the night.
Online excitement ahead of the night was unmatched, with fans, influencers, and brands driving massive engagement on social platforms. SASMA once again demonstrated its role as a vital bridge between brands and creators, elevating the creator economy through visibility, recognition, and opportunity.
BIG WINNERS OF THE NIGHT
This year’s headline winners included:
- Personality of the Year – Coachella Randy (Oratile Masedi)
- Popular Content Across All Platforms – Bruce
- Popular SA Song on Social Media – Shandesh & Mvzle for “Sdudla or Slender”
- Best Social Media Newcomer – Akhonamathemba Mbele “Sweet Guluva”
- Emerging Social Media Personality of the Year – Ashley BryInn Ogle
- Popular Hashtag on Social Media – #AshleyBryInnOgle (Ashley BryInn Ogle)
These categories commanded exceptional national attention, reflecting the influence and cultural reach of these digital powerhouses.
A key highlight of the evening was the keynote input from Deputy Minister of the Presidency, Mr Kenneth Morolong.
He affirmed the government’s recognition of the creator economy as a growing contributor to youth employment, digital innovation, and national storytelling.
His presence reinforced the message that content creation is an industry worth investing in, with the potential to stimulate economic growth and empower more young South Africans.
SASMA Director Weza Matomane reflected on the deeper purpose of the awards. “Youth unemployment remains one of the biggest challenges in our country. But social media has opened a new pathway — one where young people can earn a living, support their families, build businesses, and express themselves authentically. The SASMAs exist to champion this new industry. We are here to support creators, uplift them, and honour their work.”
He also thanked their partners MKIVA Accountants & Auditors, Bluecloud AI Curioustom, Huawei Cloud, Mmakola Foundation, Celebrity Drive, Yano Lyrics and the entire creator community for their support.
Matomane further expressed excitement over SASMA’s continued partnership with SABC 1 and SABC+, who will soon announce the official broadcast date to bring the awards to a nationwide audience.
FULL LIST OF WINNERS – SASMA 2025
- African Social Media Star of the Year: Tyla
- Automotive Influencer of the Year: Mumbo Repairs
- Beauty Influencer of the Year: Lisa Mhlongo
- Best Photographer of the Year: Lungisani Mjaji
- Best Social Media Newcomer: Akhonamathemba Mbele – Sweet Guluva
- Best Social Media Use by a Radio Show: Lethabo Lejoy Mathatho – Thobela FM Breakfast Show
- Best Social Media Use by a TV Show: Single and Mingle – Moja Love
- Best Social Media Vlogger: Minenhle Langa
- Emerging Social Media Personality of the Year: Ashley BryInn Ogle
- Fashion Influencer of the Year: Mich Sakhile
- Fitness Influencer of the Year: Beauty Tlokana
- Food Influencer of the Year: Liziwe Matloha
- Gamer of the Year: Beamerboy TV
- Kid Influencer of the Year: Desmond Koolen
- Motivational Speaker of the Year: Katleho.x.Mindshift
- Personality of the Year: Coachella Randy – Oratile Masedi
- Podcast of the Year: Open Chats Podcast
- Popular Content Across Social Media: Bruce
- Popular Hashtag on Social Media: #AshleyBryInnOgle – Ashley Ogle
- Popular SA Song on Social Media: Shandesh & Mvzle – Sdudla or Slender
- Social Media Brand Campaign of the Year: Eskort Food
- Travel Personality of the Year: Iana Strydom
