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Home · ESSENCE Africa

Meet The 'It' Girls Of South Africa

These eight pop culture divas are changing the face of South African art, fashion and entertainment.
READ MORE LESS
By Danielle Kwateng-Clark · Updated December 6, 2020
South Africa is, without a doubt, a hub of art and culture that’s filled with Millennial leaders who know how to use social media to their advantage. For artists, actors, and fashionistas, the traditional trajectory of sharing their passion has been shaken up with platforms like Instagram that catapult them to star status. Across the country, there are many who stand out for their work, but to be a true “It” girl, you have to keep people talking. The following South African ladies have major followings and are also keeping us on our toes with their beautiful social media accounts.

My lack of voicing/"showing" gratitude on these platforms is slightly concerning - aches my heart 😜 but on a serious note, most times I just don't know how to do so; but two important words could possibly do the trick? Thank you, I thank you all so much. (My cyber hugs greet thee with love and fellowship...) but if I could, I'd hug each of you individually; while simultaneously whispering life threatening words such as: you are beyond incredible, live comfortably in your skin and take care of yourself; your dreams are very much so achievable (P.S. don't forget to write them down). Well, I hope you imagined that moment soft and clear...because it actually, finna happened ✨💕 I love all the gorgeous and handsome faces that I've met and the beautiful faces that I am yet to meet. Thanks for tolerating most of my strange posts & supporting my art 💐 / ph. @bfa

A post shared by Mr. (@tony_gum) on Apr 6, 2016 at 9:42am PDT

Tony Gum This 20-year-old beauty is also an aspiring photographer who blends natural elements with abstract images.

Think the brief was 'Contemplative Artist' so I just served KAK contemplative artist. #LadySkollie 's LUST POLITICS at @tyburngallery opening 19 January 2017 in London. 📸: @antheapokroy 👅💦Neckpiece by @pichulikAfrica

A post shared by Lady Skollie (@ladyskollie) on Dec 19, 2016 at 1:16am PST

Lady Skollie This bold and thought-provoking South African artist’s name reinvents a derogatory term for non-white people. Subscribe to our daily newsletter for the latest in hair, beauty, style and celebrity news. Nandi Dlepu This content creator knows how to bring people together as a co-founder of The Wknd Social parties and Fix’in Diaries, for those who enjoy bike riding and brunch.

One of my fav looks from #100daysofafricanfashion Ss2 campaign as shot by @steviepricephotography Sunnies @bohten Dress x Jewellery @adeledejakshop Makeup @marco_louis #MAC

A post shared by Diana Opoti (@dianaopoti) on Nov 30, 2016 at 1:12am PST

Diana Opoti  After years of being a fashion editor, this Kenyan maven living in Cape Town transitioned into retail as the founder of #100DaysofAfricanFashion project that challenged her to wear solely African designers for 100 days.

@zarth_designs you make me feel like a princess 😍😍😍👑👑 #misssa2017 #ZarthDesigns 📸: @killastillz

A post shared by Thando Thabooty Thabethe (@thando_thabethe) on Mar 26, 2017 at 11:29am PDT

Thando Thabethe   Known for her popular films, including Mrs. Right Guy, this 26-year-old actress also has a radio show and hosts major television events.

Happy Sunday Folks 💛 | Braids & Nails by @candiandcosalon

A post shared by Tumi Mohale (@tumimohale) on Oct 15, 2016 at 11:49pm PDT

Tumi Mohale  An avid traveler and entrepreneur, this social media star is constantly documenting her global adventures.

😁💞👑 H A P P I N E S S 👑💞😁 So much Love and Joy. ❤️🙏🏾 #Throning #Thokoza #SheIsHappiness #OwnYourThrone👑

A post shared by Boitumelo Thulo (@boity) on Mar 23, 2017 at 7:59am PDT

Boitumelo Thulo  Acting and being a TV host aside, this beauty shares her fun workouts with fans on social media.

On the #cliquotjourney with #VCMastersPolo #HostDuties in @richfactory darling! #NubianPrincess

A post shared by Nomzamo Mbatha 🇿🇦 (@nomzamo_m) on Mar 4, 2017 at 6:52am PST

Nomzamo Mbatha  Not only is this care-free lady an actress, she’s also scored major campaigns with Puma, Neutrogena and Audi.
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