The South African Social Media Awards (SASMAs) are back, and this year’s nominations are packed.
Lasizwe Dambuza is leading the list with three nominations.
He is nominated for African Social Media Star of the Year, Most Popular Content Across Platforms and Social Media Personality of the Year.
In the African Social Media Star of the Year category, he is up against Tyla, Black Coffee, Khaby Lame and others.
The 27-year-old is one of South Africa’s most recognisable online creators, having risen to prominence through his comedic skits on Facebook.
He has since built a consistent digital presence that has kept him at the forefront of online entertainment.
In a video posted on Instagram, Dambuza thanked the SASMAs for the recognition but urged fans not to vote for him.
“Please don’t vote for me,” he said.
“These three nominations already mean my work is appreciated. That, for me, is a win.”
All categories at the SASMAs require paid votes. Supporters must spend a minimum of R10, which buys four votes.
Dambuza highlighted the economic challenges and stated that he could not ask people to use their money on voting.
“The voting system costs money, and I do not believe you should have to pay to show support. That money could go towards bread, electricity, taxi fare and actual survival.”
He added, “I cannot in good conscience ask you to spend your hard-earned money so I can hold a piece of glass that will collect dust. Your support, your comments, your views, your love. That is the real award.”
The media personality leads the nominations alongside “Big Brother Mzansi” star Ash-ley Ogle, who first gained prominence on the reality show’s fifth season.
Ogle is also nominated in three categories: Emerging Personality of the Year, Best Social Media Newcomer and Most Popular Hashtag of the Year.
Celebrating SA’s digital talent, the SASMAs will recognise influencers, creators, brands and agencies that are shaping the social media landscape.
The awards are set to take place on November 22, 2025, with voting lines open until November 8.
