TikTok awards Sub-Saharan Africa returns: celebrating the creators redefining digital culture

The TikTok Awards Sub-Saharan Africa are returning in 2025 to celebrate the continent’s most inspiring creators, artists, and innovators. Set to take place on 6 December in Johannesburg, the event will honour the talent, creativity, and community that continue to shape Africa’s digital landscape.

This year’s awards will highlight how African creators have transformed TikTok into a space where cultural expression thrives and creativity knows no bounds.

From the viral sound of BhadBoi OML’s Wasiu Ayinde to the energy of the Ngishutheni dance challenge and the rise of #CorporateTok, 2025 has been a year defined by originality and innovation.

TikTok said this year’s awards celebrate a new generation of digital pioneers who have redefined what it means to be a creator.

“Our annual awards are a moment for reflection and celebration where we build deeper relationships with the people who power the continent,” said Boniswa Sidwaba, Head of Content Operations for TikTok Sub-Saharan Africa.

“At its core, the TikTok Awards celebrate the vibrant community who continue to inspire creativity, build community and spread joy on the platform while turning their passions into prosperous careers.”

Sidwaba said the platform remains committed to empowering African creators.

“These awards recognise the people who use creativity as a force for good, whether through storytelling, education, food, music or social impact,” she added.

The 2025 edition features a wide range of categories, including Creator of the Year, Storyteller of the Year, Rising Star, and Social Impact Creator. Nominees span the continent from South Africa to Nigeria, Kenya, Ghana, Uganda and Tanzania.

Among this year’s nominees are:

Creator of the Year @diaryofanortherncook (Sokoto, Nigeria) @chefabbys (Accra, Ghana) @fanstribehq (Lagos, Nigeria) @shandorlarenty (Broederstroom, South Africa) @englishwithclem (Nairobi, Kenya)

Storyteller of the Year @beloveolocha (Lagos, Nigeria) @briannwana (Abuja, Nigeria) @mikemortontalksfootball (Cape Town, South Africa) @joygiverkitchen (Lagos, Nigeria)

Rising Star of the Year @estherfrancisbackup (Lagos, Nigeria) @_bafanamthembu (Johannesburg, South Africa) @tunero_animations (Nairobi, Kenya)

Food Creator of the Year @mpruedie1 (Midrand, South Africa) @malumfoodie (Pretoria, South Africa) @chefabbys (Accra, Ghana) @georges_kitchen (Dar es Salaam, Tanzania) @boyz_makekii (Nairobi, Kenya)

Artist of the Year @theycallmeshallipopipp (Nigeria) @itsjoshuabaraka (Uganda) @moliymusic (Ghana) @realjazzwrld (South Africa)

Voting for the TikTok Awards Sub-Saharan Africa is now open until midnight on 14 November. Fans can cast one vote per category each day by visiting the voting page, following the official TikTok channels, and sharing their support using the hashtag #TikTokAwardsSSA.

As the global creator economy continues to grow, TikTok’s support for African creators remains unwavering.

“The TikTok Awards are more than just a celebration of content creation,” Sidwaba said. “They are about recognising the voices driving change, sparking vital conversations, and showcasing Africa’s talent on the world stage.”

From music to education, food to fashion, and humour to social advocacy, this year’s nominees represent the creative powerhouses shaping Africa’s cultural identity online.

As Sidwaba summed it up, “TikTok’s mission is to continue supporting African creators to thrive, grow, and transform their passions into sustainable careers. This is about celebrating creativity and community, and we invite everyone to be part of that journey.”

So, who will take home top honours this year? The votes are in your hands — make yours count and join TikTok in celebrating Africa’s creative excellence at the 2025 TikTok Awards Sub-Saharan Africa.

BUSINESS REPORT