Nigerian content creator Belove Olocha, known to her over 500,000 followers as @beloveolocha, was crowned Entertainment Creator of the Year at the 2025 TikTok Awards Sub-Saharan Africa, a victory she described as a landmark moment for her and her country.
“I can’t believe I just won,” Olocha said, her voice filled with emotion. “This milestone brings tears to my eyes… This award means more than words can express.” Her win was part of a historic Nigerian sweep at the Johannesburg ceremony, where creators from the nation claimed six of the ten major awards.
Olocha, who was flown from Nigeria to South Africa for the event, expressed awe at the recognition. “For a creator from Nigeria, this achievement stands out,” she stated, highlighting the stiff competition from top talents across the continent.
She reflected on building an unexpected community centred on pop culture, movie insights, and reality TV commentary, amassing over 150 million views. “My content frequently goes viral, but shaping online conversations… is such a spectacular reality,” she remarked.
The creator extended heartfelt gratitude to her supporters, brand collaborators, and most importantly, her family. “To my mother and siblings who allowed me to chase my passion freely, I love you,” she shared. She also thanked TikTok for the “amazing recognition,” seeing the award as robust validation for every Nigerian creator who dares to dream big on the global stage.
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List of the winners
Artist of the Year: Crown Uzama @theycallmeshallipopi (NIGERIA)
The Nigerian Afrobeats star has become a TikTok sensation, with tracks that dominate feeds and playlists alike. His win highlights how African music, driven by creators and social media, is influencing global trends.
Cook Creator of the Year: Raja’atu Muhammed Ibrahim @diaryofanorthern (NIGERIA)
Hailing from Sokoto, Nigeria, she blends culinary creativity with authentic storytelling, making food content relatable, vibrant, and shareable. Her recipes have become a bridge between culture and creativity.
Video of the Year: Fanuel John Masamaki @Zerobrainer0 (TANZANIA)
This Tanzanian creator’s short-form videos captivated audiences worldwide, proving that innovative visual storytelling remains one of the most potent ways to engage on TikTok.
Storyteller of the Year: Brian Nwana @briannwana (NIGERIA)
Known for his honest and engaging content, Brian has shown that compelling stories, whether humorous, heartfelt, or thought-provoking, can resonate across languages and countries.
Rising Star of the Year: Tunero Animations @tunero_animations (KENYA)
This Kenyan animation account brings imagination to life, reminding audiences that creativity knows no medium. Animated content, when done right, can capture hearts and spark meaningful engagement.
Entertainment Creator of the Year: Belove Olocha @beloveolocha (NIGERIA)
From dance to skits, Belove’s content entertains while celebrating African narratives, proving that relatability, humour, and performance are timeless tools in digital storytelling.
Food Creator of the Year: Malum Foodie @malumfoodie (NIGERIA)
From meal prep tutorials to elaborate dishes, Malum Foodie turns kitchens into stages, demonstrating how food content continues to connect and inspire audiences across the continent.
Education Creator of the Year: Izzi Boye @izziboye (NIGERIA)
Her informative and engaging videos make learning accessible and fun, showing that educational content can thrive in a space often dominated by entertainment.
Social Impact Creator of the Year: Noosi Tiwantiwa @noositiwantiwa
Using TikTok as a platform for change, Noosi highlights community issues, social causes, and inspiring initiatives, proving that creators can entertain while making a meaningful impact.
Sports Creator of the Year: John Maingi Mbugua @zozasportscast
From match analyses to sports culture storytelling, Zoza brings athletic passion to TikTok in a way that informs, excites, and builds community among fans.
