These esteemed accolades not only honour the achievements of creators but also provide a glimpse into the future of media and entertainment in Africa, according to the duo.

The organisations add that through their collaboration, they aim to shed light on the creative expression that builds the creative industry across Africa.
 
This is the second year of the eagerly awaited award ceremony, celebrating TikTok creators for their talent and creativity.

During December 2023, TikTok fans were asked to vote for their favourite creators on TikTok, and winners were chosen by public vote and a TikTok judging panel, with one winner emerging from each category.
 
Bianca Sibiya, head of content operations for TikTok in sub-Saharan Africa, emphasises the significance of acknowledging talent.

"TikTok champions creativity and connects people globally. Our platform empowers anyone to become a creator and share their stories, while building careers. These awards are designed to inspire, guide and empower the next generation of talent to take Africa to the world," says Sibiya. 
 
Through this first-of-its-kind collaboration with TikTok, Vodacom South Africa enhances the creative process with its best-in-test network on South Africa's most reliable network. Without access to a reliable data network, content creators will not be able to upload their videos on TikTok, says the duo. 

Mathys Venter, managing executive for Prepaid and Loyalty at Vodacom South Africa, says, "Our network enables content creators to realise their creative visions, from capturing and editing footage to producing engaging content. This partnership is also another example of how like-minded brands collaborate to provide customers with technological solutions that enhance their everyday lifestyle and entertainment."
 
Set for Friday, 9 February at Vodaworld in Midrand, Johannesburg, this event is more than just an awards ceremony. It's a tribute to the individuals shaping the cultural and digital landscape of Sub-Saharan Africa, setting new cultural trends and influencing social narratives, says TikTok and Vodacom.  
 
Here are the 2023 TikTok Top Creator Awards nominees: 
 
Sports Creator of the Year in sub-Saharan Africa
 
Gaming Creator of the Year in sub-Saharan Africa
 
Entertainment Creator of the Year in sub-Saharan Africa

Lifestyle and Education Creator of the Year in sub-Saharan Africa
 
Trailblazer of the Year in sub-Saharan Africa
 
Africa Rising Creator of the Year in sub-Saharan Africa

Publisher of the Year in sub-Saharan Africa
 
Song of the Year in sub-Saharan Africa
  • Tyler ICU & Tumelo_za — Mnike (feat. DJ Maphorisa, Nandipha808, Ceeka RSA & Tyron Dee)
  • Inkabi Zezwe, Sjava & Big Zulu — Umbayimbayi
  • Uncle Waffles, Tony Duardo & Justin 99 — Yahyuppiyah(feat. Pcee, EeQue & Chley)
  • Guchi & Loud Behaviour — Notice Me
  • Pcee, S'gija Disciples & Zan'Ten — Kilimanjaro (feat. Justin 99, Mema_Percent & Mr JazziQ)
  • Khaid & Boy Spyce — Carry Me Go (Sped Up)
  • Khaid — Anabella (Sped Up)
  • Asake — Lonely At the Top
  • Spyro — Who is your guy?
  • Adekunle Gold & Zinoleesky — Party No Dey Stop
  • Jux & Diamond Platnumz — Enjoy
  • Jay Melody — Sawa
  • Platform TZ — Wivu
  • Alikiba — Mahaba, and
  • Bruce Africa — You.
 
Beyond entertainment, these awards underscore the economic empowerment fostered by TikTok and Vodacom. They highlight the platform's role in nurturing diverse talents from various backgrounds and countries, contributing significantly to the burgeoning digital economy in Africa, the organisations conclude. 
 
To celebrate this partnership, Vodacom NXT LVL has launched a 'Buy and Get' campaign where three NXT LVL customers will stand a chance to win double tickets to the TikTok Top Creator Awards powered by Vodacom.

For more information, visit www.tiktok.com. You can also follow TikTok on Facebook, LinkedIn, X or on Instagram. 

*Image courtesy of contributor