African influencers have carved a niche for themselves in the international fashion, lifestyle, and media space. From the red carpets of the BET Awards and the Grammys to Cannes Film Festival and the Met Gala, these digital tastemakers are no longer confined to local audiences. They are now defining beauty, fashion, and culture on a global scale.
Let’s explore the rise of African influencers at international award shows and why their presence is transforming global media narratives.
The Digital Revolution and African Visibility
Social media platforms like Instagram, YouTube, TikTok, and Twitter have provided African creators with a global stage. This visibility has translated into invites to high-profile events previously reserved for Hollywood elites or Western celebrities.
What’s more remarkable is how these influencers show up — unapologetically African, often donning traditional fabrics, Afro-inspired hairstyles, and using their platforms to celebrate their roots.
1. Temi Otedola at the British Fashion Awards
Temi Otedola, daughter of Nigerian billionaire Femi Otedola and girlfriend to singer Mr. Eazi, is more than a style icon — she’s a fashion ambassador. Her attendance at the British Fashion Awards and other elite events has turned heads globally.
What stands out is her ability to merge African elegance with high fashion, often mixing Ankara prints with couture silhouettes. She represents a new generation of African influencers who have the luxury, platform, and talent to command international attention.
2. Thando Thabethe and Bonang Matheba at BET and MTV Awards
South African media personalities like Bonang Matheba and Thando Thabethe have become familiar faces on the BET and MTV red carpets. Bonang, in particular, made history as the first African to host the pre-show at the BET Awards.
These influencers have walked carpets in gowns by African designers like Gert-Johan Coetzee, waving the flag for homegrown fashion on the global stage. Their bold appearances spark conversations not just about their style but about African excellence.
3. Elsa Majimbo: The Comedic Queen Taking Over
Kenyan internet sensation Elsa Majimbo rose to fame during the pandemic with her quirky, relatable skits. Her wit and authenticity caught the attention of celebrities like Rihanna and Naomi Campbell, leading to brand deals with Fenty and Valentino.
She’s since appeared at major events, including fashion weeks and award shows, using her platform to talk about African youth, beauty standards, and confidence. Elsa’s rise is proof that content rooted in local truth can gain global traction.
4. Aya Chebbi and Other Pan-African Advocates
Beyond fashion, African influencers at award shows now include political voices like Tunisia’s Aya Chebbi, who blend activism and aesthetics. These are influencers who attend UN galas, Nobel Prize events, and humanitarian awards, showing that African youth are not only fashionable — they are powerful and vocal.
What Their Presence Means
Cultural Diplomacy: These influencers are informal ambassadors, promoting African culture and creativity.
Industry Access: Their visibility opens doors for African designers, stylists, and creatives.
Narrative Shift: They challenge stereotypes by offering a fuller, vibrant image of Africa to the world.
From Ghana to South Africa, Nigeria to Kenya, African influencers are not waiting for validation — they are owning the spotlight and creating space for the next generation.
