Latest news with #EQUALAfrica
The Citizen
6 days ago
- Entertainment
- The Citizen
Five SA celebs who recently secured major brand deals
These celebrities are turning fame into powerful business moves. From left to right: Nomzamo Mbatha, Lasizwe Dambuza and Tyla. Pictures: Instagram South African celebrities are racking up major endorsement deals, partnering with both global giants and proudly African brands. From footwear and haircare to beauty and luxury vehicles, these celebrities are turning fame into powerful business moves. ALSO READ: Honor and Blue Bulls announce technology device partnership Here are five SA celebs who recently secured major brand deals Tyla – Nike Nike recently launched its new autumn campaign for the Air Max Muse sneaker, featuring South Africa's very own global star Tyla, alongside American Olympic gymnast Jordan Chiles. Unveiled on Thursday, 17 July, the campaign showcases the two powerhouses in a series of striking promotional images. This follows Tyla's major endorsement deal with Nike, which was signed in February of this year. The Grammy Award winner brings a fresh face to the iconic sportswear brand, joining Nike's elite ambassador squad, which includes Drake, Serena Williams, LeBron James, Naomi Osaka, and Cristiano Ronaldo, among others. Nomzamo Mbatha – Creme of Nature Actress and humanitarian Nomzamo Mbatha has joined international haircare giant Creme of Nature. In June, she was officially announced as the first-ever South African ambassador for the iconic American-born ethnic haircare brand. 'Nomzamo embodies the essence of our Rooted in Radiance message. She is powerful, graceful, and celebrates African authenticity in all expressions of her brand image. Her partnership with us is not just another beauty campaign, but an ode to authentic African beauty, culture, and the beauty of textured hair in women,' said Zandi Zinganto, Brand Manager for Creme of Nature South Africa. Lasizwe Dambuza – Maybelline New York Africa YouTuber and reality TV star Lasizwe Dambuza made history as the first male brand ambassador for Maybelline New York Africa. In May, as the global beauty brand celebrated its 110th anniversary, Lasizwe took to Instagram to share his excitement. 'Words can't express how grateful I am… Like, I am a whole Maybelline New York Africa ambassador and I got to celebrate the 110th birthday with them,' he wrote. MaWhoo – Spotify EQUAL Africa MaWhoo has been named Spotify's EQUAL Africa Ambassador for July 2025. The EQUAL Africa programme is part of Spotify's global initiative to spotlight and support women creators by equipping them with the tools and platforms they need to thrive in the music industry. 'When you're selected for something like this, it means your name is being mentioned in rooms even when you're not there. 'It speaks to the growth of my career — from being overlooked to now being recognised on such a powerful platform. I'm grateful and deeply honoured,' MaWhoo said in a press statement earlier this month. Rachel Kolisi – Jetour X70 Plus Rachel Kolisi, entrepreneur and estranged wife of Springbok rugby star Siya Kolisi, was announced as the new brand ambassador for Jetour South Africa this month. Jetour partnered with Rachel to promote the brand's latest vehicle, the X70 Plus. Jetour South Africa said Rachel Kolisi is the perfect fit for the Jetour family. 'As a busy working mother, comfort, space, and safety in the vehicle she drives are paramount. As someone constantly on the move between school runs, fitness sessions, business meetings, and family life, Rachel embodies the dynamic spirit of Jetour's flagship seven-seater, the Jetour X70 Plus.' NOW READ: 'You can tell she doesn't know where Thando is' — Sister of missing ex-footballer challenges girlfriend's claim
The Citizen
09-07-2025
- Entertainment
- The Citizen
Mawhoo on thriving in Amapiano's male-dominated scene
Mawhoo was recently named Spotify's EQUAL Africa Ambassador for July 2025. South African vocalist Mawhoo is making waves in the Amapiano genre with her unique sound and rising success in a male-dominated industry. Mawhoo, whose real name is Thandeka Ngema, was recently named Spotify's EQUAL Africa Ambassador for July 2025, a recognition of her growing influence and artistic impact. The EQUAL Africa programme is part of Spotify's global initiative to spotlight and support women creators by equipping them with the tools and platforms they need to thrive in the music industry. Mawhoo's journey in music began in 2018 with the release of her debut single Umshado, which she credits as the beginning of her professional breakthrough. 'The positive feedback from people and the reception to the track made me realise that I can do this thing. But I've always been passionate about music from a young age,' she said. Her path to success, however, has not been without its challenges. As a woman in the industry, Mawhoo said she faced not only creative limitations but also pressure to conform. 'There was a time when people used to make me do music and a sound that didn't resonate with me; I couldn't be creative fully and be expressive, so people used to assume I couldn't sing or that I wasn't talented. 'I was often bullied, and that made me stressed, but instead of leaving music, I carried on and didn't give up. I used that to push myself.' Now regarded as one of the leading voices in Amapiano, she believes her success comes from staying true to herself. 'I've empowered myself, and I make decisions that feel right to me. I don't do things just to please others. I don't do anything that's going to make me feel uncomfortable. If a space doesn't serve me, I walk away.' NOW READ: 'It's not just music, it's a story': Showmax celebrates Kabza De Small's Amapiano brilliance Mawhoo on breaking barriers and setting boundaries Speaking on the broader challenges women face in the music space, Mawhoo said the industry often blurs professional and personal boundaries. 'As a woman, even beyond the music industry, there are challenges that we face. We are subjected to being wanted and approached by men promising us love or looking for intimacy, even in professional settings. 'As women, learn to stand your ground and say no. Teach people to respect you and your decisions. Don't do things because you want to please others and want to be favoured — don't sell your soul.' NOW READ: 'We're all puppets': Q&A with Chester Missing
