2024 TikTok Visionary African Voices
In 2024, TikTok unveiled its first-ever Visionary Voices Africa list, celebrating 15 exceptional African creators, entrepreneurs, and industry innovators who are making waves in their fields. This list showcases individuals who are not just creating content but also reshaping cultural narratives and setting trends that resonate across the globe. The honorees span a variety of categories—Creators, Industry Disruptors, and Small-Owned Businesses—each contributing uniquely to the African creative landscape. Let’s meet these trailblazers who are amplifying African voices on the global stage
Creators
Elsa Majimbo (Kenya) Elsa Majimbo is a Kenyan comedian who has captured hearts worldwide with her witty and relatable TikTok skits. Known for her signature potato chips and tiny sunglasses, Elsa’s humorous take on life has earned her international acclaim, with fans that include Beyoncé. Now based in the U.S., she continues to create content that brings joy to millions.
Moghelingz (South Africa) Banele Ndaba, better known as Moghelingz, is a South African content creator who brings nostalgia and culture to life through his TikTok sketches. His satirical comedy, fabulous dance moves, and unique flair have made him a household name, even gracing the Afronation stage in Portugal.
Chad Jones (South Africa) Chad Jones is a dynamic South African creator known for his energetic family dance videos. He skillfully blends gqom, kwaito, amapiano, and afrobeats styles, often breaking down the steps in tutorials that help viewers connect with African dance culture.
Arap Uria (Kenya) Arap Uria is a sports content creator from Kenya with a massive following of 1.5 million on TikTok. His engaging content mixes entertainment with education, providing followers with fun and insightful sports commentary that keeps them coming back for more.
Iremide (Nigeria) Iremide is a Nigerian digital creator who combines her passion for lifestyle, education, and community into her TikTok content. This aspiring lawyer and entrepreneur won the TikTok Top Creator Awards 2023 in the Lifestyle and Education category, and she also runs a thriving shoe business designing trendy platform shoes
Industry Disruptors
Burna Boy (Nigeria) Damini Ebunoluwa Ogulu, better known as Burna Boy, is a Grammy-winning artist whose Afrobeat, dancehall, reggae, and pop hits have captivated global audiences. His song “City Boy” has sparked countless dance challenges on TikTok, further cementing his influence in the music industry.
Hilda Baci (Nigeria) Hilda Effiong Bassey, or Hilda Baci, is a Nigerian TV producer, actress, presenter, and entrepreneur who holds the Guinness World Record for marathon cooking. Through her ventures, My Food by Hilda and Hilda Baci Academy, she’s made significant strides in the culinary world while inspiring others with her entrepreneurial spirit.
Popi Sibiya (South Africa) Popi Sibiya is a South African travel vlogger who uses “edutainment” to change perceptions of Africa. Her content highlights the beauty and challenges of the continent, with recent travels to Congo showcasing her commitment to sharing authentic African experiences.
The Joy (South Africa) The Joy is a South African group that combines traditional Zulu beats with modern acapella sounds, creating music that resonates globally. Their hits like “Egoli” and “Mountain” have earned them collaborations with international artists and the adoration of celebrities such as Doja Cat and Alicia Keys.
Uncle Waffles (Swaziland) Born in Swaziland, Uncle Waffles is a DJ and record producer who has become a sensation in South Africa and beyond. Known as the ‘princess of amapiano,’ her electrifying performances and viral dance challenges have made her a standout figure on TikTok
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Small-Owned Businesses
Mwangi Muthoni (Kenya) Mwangi Muthoni, the creator of Dreadlocks Nairobi, has transformed his salon into Kenya’s top destination for natural dreadlocks. His passion for style and his commitment to making clients feel fabulous has made him a trusted name in the beauty industry.
Kayla Kim Kay (South Africa) Kayla Kim Kay is a South African TikTok creator and CEO of Afrocurl, a brand that champions natural hair care and community empowerment. Through her innovative content and dedication to mentoring others, Kayla is making a lasting impact in both the digital and business worlds.
Blaqboi Victor (Nigeria) Blaqboi Victor is a talented actor, filmmaker, and TikTok creator from Plateau State, Nigeria. In 2023, he launched his own film production company, where he creates powerful short films and directs music videos, bringing stories to life with his unique vision.
Bolo Bespoke (Kenya) Bolo Bespoke is a Nairobi-based fashion designer who uses TikTok to showcase his vibrant and culturally rich designs. His fashion house, Bespoke City, has become a sensation, with Bolo styling numerous Kenyan celebrities and gaining a prominent place in the fashion industry.
Alexa Schempers (South Africa) Alexa Schempers is the founder of Rethread, a Cape Town-based fashion label that champions sustainability and eco-friendly fashion. A self-taught designer with a business background, Alexa shares her journey of building a fashion brand on TikTok, inspiring others to embrace expressive and sustainable fashion choices.
Celebrating African Excellence
The Visionary Voices Africa list is a powerful celebration of the talent and creativity emerging from the continent. These creators, entrepreneurs, and industry disruptors are not only making their mark on TikTok but also redefining African culture on a global scale. Their stories are a testament to the endless possibilities that come with passion, innovation, and the power of social media. As these visionary voices continue to rise, they are paving the way for future generations of African creators to shine.