On February 9, TikTok honoured the region’s most outstanding content creators at the 2023 Top Creator Awards, powered by Vodacom NXT LVL. This prestigious event took place at Vodacom World in Johannesburg on 9 February and saw Nigeria’s top creators being recognised for their dedication to content creation on TikTok.
The awards ceremony not only spotlighted exceptional content across various categories but also emphasised TikTok’s commitment to empowering creators in Sub-Saharan Africa. By offering resources and extensive training and support to creators on how to monetise their content, the platform is pivotal in enabling creators to pursue their passions sustainably.
With its innovative features and ease of creation, TikTok has become a powerful tool for content creators to showcase their talent and forge impactful careers, making the Top Creator Awards a fitting celebration of their achievements.
In its second year, the event sought to recognise the individual accomplishments of creators and acknowledge the symbiotic relationships formed with their audiences. Through genuine connections, they have built fulfilling careers and contributed to the cultural richness of their communities.
Bianca Sibiya, TikTok’s Head of Content Operations in Sub-Saharan Africa, shared that the awards are designed to inspire, guide, and empower the next generation of talent. “The #TopCreator2023 awards give us an opportunity to recognise and celebrate our talented content creators from across the continent. We’re incredibly proud and inspired by these creators, who significantly impact their communities through innovative, engaging and captivating content. Congratulations to all the winners and nominees.”
During December 2023, TikTok fans voted for their favourite creators, and winners were chosen by public vote and a TikTok judging panel, with one winner emerging from each category.
2023 Top Creator Awards Winners:
Sports Creator of the Year in Sub-Saharan Africa
Nezcatt (South Africa)
Gaming Creator of the Year in Sub-Saharan Africa
khalamanja_ (Nigeria)
Entertainment Creator of the Year in Sub-Saharan Africa
Sachi_himes96 (South Africa)
Lifestyle and Education Creator of the Year in Sub-Saharan Africa
_iremide (Nigeria)
Trailblazer (Emerging) of the Year in Sub-Saharan Africa
@olaoflagos_ (Nigeria)
Africa Rising (Community) Creator of the Year in Sub-Saharan Africa
Afrolecia (South Africa)
Publisher of the Year in Sub-Saharan Africa
PulseNigeria247 (Nigeria)
Song of the Year in Sub-Saharan Africa
Tyler ICU
The ceremony showcased talent and diversity, featuring a dynamic performance by Top Creator 2023 Song of the Year winner, Tyler ICU who blew the world away with his hit song “Mnike” and TikTok success story, Thozi Music. Kenya was represented with a special appearance by the Top Creator SSA Winner for 2022, Dennis Ombachi, known popularly to the world as The Roaming Chef.
TikTok continues to be a leading platform for creative expression, offering a space where creators can connect, inspire and thrive. The #TopCreator2023 awards highlight the endless possibilities within the TikTok community and set the stage for future innovations in content creation.
