Meet your South African Music Awards (#SAMA29) hosts…
With just a couple of days away from the South African Music Awards, the 29th edition, today RiSA has finally announced its hosts namely DJ Sabby, “The Best Thing Ever” Mtshali, Nomalanga “The Flame” Shozi, Hope Mbhele and Thuthuka Mthembu – all set to host thee the most anticipated awards show ever.
The awards, which started off on a bad foot, are set to take place at Pretoria’s SunBet Arena at Times Square, Menlyn Maine, this coming Saturday (18.11.23) in collaboration with Africa fest.
DJ Sabby “The Best Thing Ever” Mtshali is a luminary in African urban youth culture. Extending his influence beyond radio stations such as KFM and 947, DJ Sabby became a correspondent for the BBC’s #ThisIsAfrica show, profiling African acts globally.
He currently graces the airwaves at Metro FM anchoring the breakfast show with #BestMornings showcasing his iconic voice and unparalleled passion for music. He is also known for hosting SABC1’s Bonisanani and Africa Magic Plus’s Unplugged and Clash of the Choirs on Mzansi Magic, adding another dimension to his multifaceted career.
Vibe, the DSTV MVCA red carpet, shows on Gagasi FM as well as Metro FM embodies nothing but summer freshness.
Actress Thuthuka Mthembu will join Mbhele on the red carpet, as well as give viewers an all access with a tête-à-tête with winners and performers in the green room/backstage. The 25-year-old Mthembu, born and bred in Johannesburg is popularly known for her leading roles in Uzalo and Ehostela and earned her stripes as a Yo-TV host.
Shaka Ilembe and Umkhokha star Hope Mbhele who has stolen the hearts of many South Africans promises nothing but an inside scoop on all the glitz and glamour as she hosts the #SAMA29 red carpet. The golden cover girl who has hosted SABC1’s Issa Vibe, the DSTV MVCA red carpet, shows on Gagasi FM as well as Metro FM embodies nothing but summer freshness.
Last but certainly not the least, Nomalanga ‘The Flame’ Shozi who originates from Port Shepstone, continues to live up to her name constantly setting the entertainment industry on fire with her versatility. Initially recognised as Nomalanga Mkhize in the acclaimed series Rhythm City, Shozi swiftly transcended borders, becoming a prominent figure on the international stage covering events such as the 2018 BET Soul Train Awards in Las Vegas.
Shozi’s adaptability was further highlighted in MTV Shugas – Alone Together, where she addressed the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. Now 28, the actress and TV star continues to captivate audiences with compelling performances in shows such as Roomies and hosting Behind the Story where she takes viewers on an enlightening journey, pulling the curtain behind the glitz and glamour of celebrity life.
Dubbed as the fantastic four, this year’s hosts promise a multi-disciplined approach to this multicultural affair.
RiSA CEO Nhlanhla Sibisi said: “DJ Sabby and Nomalanga Shozi are a dynamic duo impeccably positioned to ignite SAMA29. Their infectious energy, magnetic charisma, and profound connections within the South African entertainment landscape seamlessly align with the spirit of #SAMA29. Hope Mbhele and Thuthuka Mthembu embody our philosophy of giving young fresh practitioners a platform to showcase their excellence. Curated meticulously we have no doubt that these four will elevate the SAMA experience to unprecedented heights. It will be unforgettable.”