Cape Town – South African sensation Tyla made history at the 2025 Nickelodeon Kids’ Choice Awards, held at Barker Hangar in Santa Monica.
In a momentous night for African representation, the 23‑year‑old Grammy-winning artist became the first African to host the globally televised event, bringing her signature energy to the stage.
Tyla opened the show with a spirited dance segment featuring DJ Benny Blanco and a surprise appearance by Smurfette.
In her promotional lead-up, she called the opportunity a “full‑circle moment”, recalling an audition with Nickelodeon during childhood.
“I just hope I only get a little drizzle of slime,” she joked—only to find herself drenched in the iconic green goo multiple times, sharing the messy spotlight with presenters Jack Griffo and the group KATSEYE.
Kids’ Choice Awards, you’re Gnarly 🧪🖤 @Nickelodeon thank you so much for having us and for fulfilling a childhood dream of ours!! pic.twitter.com/O0FlBK5URH
— KATSEYE (@katseyeworld) June 22, 2025
View this post on Instagram
Halfway through the show, Tyla was awarded the Favourite Global Music Star (Africa) title a fan‑voted category pitting her against artists from six other regions.
Accepting the bright orange blimp trophy, she expressed her gratitude, saying, “This means the world to me to represent Africa on a global stage and be recognised by all of you amazing kids out there … Africa to the world!”
View this post on Instagram
The KCAs ceremony also showcased a vibrant mix of pop culture, with Sabrina Carpenter sweeping three awards, Wicked winning Favourite Movie, and Rihanna being honoured with the ICON Silver Blimp award Tyla’s dual role as host and award recipient underscored her rising influence, marking a milestone for South African artists on the international entertainment circuit.
Follow African Insider on Facebook, X and Instagram
Picture: Instagram/Nickelodeon
For more African news, visit Africaninsider.com
Compiled by Lisabeal Nqamqhele
