Movers and shakers of the South African entertainment industry gathered at the BET A-List announcement, as the entertainment channel, BET (DStv channel 129), revealed its definitive list of this year’s top 20 influential stars.
This all took place at the Four Seasons Hotel The Westcliff, as hosts for the evening Nandi Madida and Ayanda Thabethe announced the honorees of the inaugural BET A-list.
Monde Twala, vice-president of BET, youth and music, said, “We are excited to reveal our new flagship entertainment show BET A-List and to simultaneously highlight individuals and groups who we feel are in class of their own – men and women who are achieving above and beyond, flying the flag for SA beyond our borders, and helping to transform our culture, in many different fields.
“These are the people whose names are on everyone’s lips, who are wanted on every red carpet, and who you will find at the top of every guest list in the country.”
South Africa’s sporting heroes led the field, with Caster Semenya and Wayde van Niekerk being honoured.
The creative arts also scored high as director Thabang Moleya and novelist, poet and playwright Zakes Mda were recognised by BET, along with actress Terry Pheto and TV/film producers Shona and Connie Ferguson.
Internationally renowned fashion designer David Tlale was named A-List Style Icon while hip-hop star Rikhado ‘Riky Rik’ Makhado won points for his stand-out style as the Most Stylish Musician.
Publisher and businesswoman Khanyi Dhlomo was announced BET A-List Entrepreneur while Sibusiso ‘DJ Sbu’ Leope was recognised for his philanthropic efforts.
TV personalities Bonang Matheba and Somizi Mhlongo took home the titles for Radio and TV Personality, while hilarious trio Nicholas, Jason and Donovan Goliath were named BET A-Listers in the field of comedy.
Contemporary musicians continued to dominate with internationally renowned DJ and producer Nkosinathi ‘Black Coffee’ Maphumulo was named BET A-List DJ, while hip-hop rapper, Kiernan ‘AKA’ Forbes was crowned Social Media Star.
Hip-hop rapper, Refiloe ‘Cassper Nyovest’ Phoolo was decreed Game Changer in Music while rapper, Nsikayesizwe ‘Nasty C’ Ngcobo was dubbed Rising Star.
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