Sandton-based businessman speaks about the South African Social Media Awards
As South Africa continues to embrace the digital age, influencers and content creators have emerged as influential figures who shape and drive conversations in society.
The glittering night that marked a significant event in South Africa’s social media landscape, the South African Social Media Awards, left many impressed and looking forward to the next one.
Held at the prestigious Sandton Convention Centre, the Sandton-based businessman Zareef Minty who was part of the judges panel, said the awards were refreshing as they showcased some of the best media talent in Africa.
“With the theme of the night, ‘Halloween glam’, everyone dressed to impress and enjoyed the lineup of performances too,” he said.
As this grand celebration brought together influencers, brands, and agencies to honour outstanding achievements in social media and digital marketing, all the attendees had time to mingle and network with the right people.
Minty said what stood out for him was the recognition of the next generation, which he always advocated for.
“We saw Kairo Forbes, the daughter of the late hip-hop superstar AKA, win the award of the ‘kid influencer of the year’, and it will inspire and motivate an entire generation of young people to use the space of social media as a potential income stream but also a platform to grow their brands.
“With the high unemployment rate in South Africa, we need South Africans to see alternative ways of earning sustainable income, and social media, with the growth of YouTube and the monetisation of Instagram and TikTok, has created those opportunities for our youth. The more we showcase these individuals, the more exposure we create for future social media stars to succeed.”
Minty concluded with advice for people working in social media. “Build a community of people who love and support what you do. Work daily to improve the community, expand it, and also add value to your community. When people feel a part of something, they invest in it automatically. You want family and not fans, and also definitely collaborate and network as much as possible, but don’t be afraid to be as creative as you can be.”
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