Cape Town – South African content creator Lasizwe Dambuza, who leads the 2025 South African Social Media Awards (SASMAs) with three nominations, delivered a surprisingly selfless message to his supporters.
In an Instagram video, he thanked the SASMAs for the recognition but urged fans not to vote for him highlighting the financial strain during tough economic times.
“These three nominations already mean my work is appreciated. That, for me, is a win,” he said.
Acknowledging that voting requires payment — with a minimum spend of R10 for four votes — he stated, “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.”
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He continued, “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.”
Lasizwe’s nominations span major categories including African Social Media Star of the Year, Most Popular Content Across Platforms, and Social Media Personality of the Year—placing him alongside global icons like Tyla, Black Coffee, and Khaby Lame.
Nominees for African Social Media Star Of the year. pic.twitter.com/6ZOl8hTeKW
— SA Social Media Awards (SASMA) | #SASMA2025 (@SMAWARDS_ZA) August 16, 2025
He’s tied with Ash-ley Ogle, also nominated in three categories, including Emerging Personality of the Year and Most Popular Hashtag.
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Compiled by Lisabeal Nqamqhele
