Top African celebrities including Zimbabwe’s Madam Boss, Boity Thulo (South Africa) and Falz (Nigeria) have been nominated in the African Social Star category at the 2021 E! People’s Choice Awards slated for 7 November.

The musicians are among eight influencers from the continent to be shortlisted for the category, which is returning for the third time in the history of the ceremony.

Last year, Kenyan internet comedian Elsa Majimbo scooped up the title of African Social Star of 2020, while South African broadcaster and model Bonang Matheba was voted the African Influencer of the Year in 2019.

This year’s other African Social Star nominees are YouTube sensation and LGBTQ activist Lasizwe Dambuza (South Africa), make-up artist and beauty influencer Mihlali Ndamase (South Africa), TikTok sensation Witney Ramabulana (South Africa), TikTok star Azziad Nasenya (Kenya), comedian Madam Boss (Zimbabwe) and self-empowerment advocate The Odditty (Nigeria).

“Receiving this nomination is honestly a dream come true,” Boity Thulo said. “I feel so honoured that the work that I do is being celebrated on such a massive platform. From the bottom of my heart, thank you.”

Falz said: “It’s a great honour to be nominated for this award, and I am really excited that the good people at E! considered me for this. I have always considered social media a place where I can have fun, connect with people from different parts of the globe and most importantly, effect social change.”

Madam Boss expressed her excitement, adding that the nomination came as a surprise.

“I would like to express my genuine happiness for receiving this nomination. 2020 and 2021 have not been easy as the world over people have been dying due to the COVID-19 pandemic. All we wish for is life and a quick recovery to anyone affected.”

 

The 2021 People’s Choice Awards will be broadcast on 7 December, starting with the 2021 People’s Choice Awards: Live From E! at 2am CAT and the ceremony at 4am CAT. The ceremony will be repeated on E! (DStv Channel 124) on 8 December at 8pm CAT.