Social media has not only changed the way we communicate, it has also infiltrated our lives in a big way.
So much so, that over the years, successful careers have been forged on various platforms and big changes made in day-to-day lives, all through social media and its reach.
It is from this knowledge that Mzansi will soon host its first ever South African Social Media Awards (SASMA) next month, that were initially launched, in May, this year. The awards aim to celebrate social media’s influence in our lives, and those who play in the space.
The live show will be held at the Focus Room, and followed by a broadcast version of the awards on December 14, 20:00, on 1KZN TV.
Although lagging behind other countries, where such awards have become a norm, the ceremony will crown 18 winners in total, ranging from Social Media Personality of the Year, to the Most Recognised Business on Social Media.
“The idea was really about giving back to the many content creators that we have in our country, who are not being recognised, although they do so much on a day to day basis. These individuals are those that have creatively used the platforms to feed themselves and some are those who have made great contributions to society through the various platforms,” said Guwani Mopapa, the founder of the awards.
“We firstly just want to see ourselves creating a huge platform for appreciation, but also for social impact, where we will assist social media influencers to take their work to greater heights through monetary contributions and exposure,” he said.
Nominees for the awards include the likes of Tumi Sole, Mihlali Ndamase, Blue Mbombo, Lorna Maseko, PodCast And Chill with MacG, Chef Nti and the late Les Da Chef among many others.
“It took a lot of time on our side to plan the awards and we promised to launch the Live Show with a bang. We want these awards to outlive us, while highlighting the impact that social media has and can continuously have on our lives. How we as a country haven’t had these awards at the wake of so many brilliant creations is actually unbelievable,” he added.
The judging panel that came up with the nominees’ list includes the likes of Hope Malatsi, Tumelo Matela, Neo Koaho, Macenje Che Che Mazoka and Nobantu Modise, and the ultimate winners will be voted for by social media users.
In tandem with the spirit of appreciating social media, the awards will be live streamed via SASMA’s social media pages (YouTube, Facebook, Instagram and Twitter).