Multi-media personality and strong advocate for humanitarian causes, Nomzamo Mbatha, has been officially recognised as one of “TIME” magazine’s World’s Most Influential Rising Stars in Advocacy.
The actress, model and activist took to Instagram to share her success with her followers. “Speechless… Your girl made the 2025 #TIME100NextList and all I have in my little hands are a million thank you’s ✨ Still in complete disbelief! 😭😫
“What a season. What gratitude to live through all my vision board whispers. @time This one is for KWAMASHU 🏆.”
The 2025 TIME100 Next list is also made up of artists, innovators, leaders and phenoms.
Mbatha shares this impressive recognition with other notable figures such as singer-songwriter Teyana Taylor, world tennis champion Taylor Fritz and Guyana’s president Irfaan Ali.
In her specific category, Mbatha stands alongside remarkable advocates like Rose Njeri Tunguru, a software developer from Nairobi, LGBTQIA+ advocate Viktoria Radvanyi and poet, author and humanitarian Emi Mahmoud from Sudan, among many others.
Mbatha‘s designation as a TIME rising star is largely attributed to her unwavering commitment to humanitarian causes through her role as a UNHCR Goodwill Ambassador.
The publication wrote that Mbatha embodies advocacy with her actions.
“From field missions in Malawi, Kenya, and South Sudan with UNHCR to global platforms like TEDx Kakuma, she has amplified refugee voices with empathy and courage … Nomzamo has proved she doesn’t just use her platform. She is the walking manifestation of it.”
Mzansi celebrities and friends of Mbatha’s gathered in the comments section to congratulate her on the massive achievement.
Award-winning TV and radio personality wrote: “Oh Nomzamo!!! You are EVERYTHING and more 🥹😭🥰😍🙏🏾❤️ CONGRATULATIONS BEAUTIFUL 🥹😍🙏🏾❤️🥰.”
“Blood and Water” actress Ama Qamata commented: “Omg!! Congrats Zamo🥹🙌🏾🍾.”
Former “Generations” star Carol Bouwer wrote: “I am loving your journey! #ownlanechronicles❤️.”
Comedian Mpho Popps’ new bride, Latoyah Mei-Modikoane, said: “Would you look at GOD!!!👏🏾🥹😭 Congratulations, my friend, you are so deserving of this. Super proud of you ❤️.”
Mbatha reciprocated the love, responding to each congratulatory message.
