Nasty C Nsikayesizwe David Junior Ngcobo, better known as Nasty C, is a multi-award-winning South African rapper who has earned global recognition. Signed to Def Jam Records through Universal Music Africa, Nasty C has made waves with his albums and mixtapes, including his critically acclaimed "Strings and Bling," which amassed over 120 million streams. Known for blending African culture with global hip-hop, Nasty C aims to take Africa to the world with his upcoming album, Zulu Man With Some Power. His ability to stay true to himself while embracing a global audience sets him apart as a leading voice of his generation.

Folu Storms began her career as a lawyer before transitioning to media in 2012 with 92.3 Inspiration FM. A finalist in MTV Base Africa's VJ search, she went on to produce The New Africa documentary for Ndani TV, which was nominated for a 2016 Africa Magic Viewers Choice Award. She has co-hosted the Breakfast Show at Smooth 98.1FM and won accolades like the 2017 Ebony Life TV Sisterhood Award for TV Personality of the Year and the 2018 On-Air Personality Award at The Future Awards. Storms also starred in the mini-series MTV Shuga Alone Together, tackling the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Annie Macaulay-Idibia is a Nigerian model, actress, and TV presenter, best known for her roles in Nollywood films like Pleasure and Crime and Blackberry Babes. She first gained attention as a runner-up in the Queen of All Nations Beauty Pageant and made a cameo in the iconic "African Queen" music video by 2Baba, her husband. Annie was nominated for Best Supporting Actress at the 2009 Best of Nollywood Awards. In 2022, she and 2Baba joined the cast of Netflix's reality series Young, Famous & African, which highlights prominent African personalities.

Brighton Mhlongo is a former professional footballer who played in the Premier Soccer League for 11 years, representing top clubs like Orlando Pirates, Chippa United, and Bidvest Wits, as well as the South African national team, Bafana Bafana. After a career-ending injury in 2021, Brighton transitioned into broadcasting, becoming a radio and TV sports host and analyst. He is also an actor, having secured a role in the telenovela Champions, and works behind the scenes as a creative producer.

Brighton’s philanthropic efforts include founding the My Football CV app, which helps aspiring footballers get scouted by professional teams. He also supports youth development through his ManyisaMhlongo and Mhlongo Legacy foundations, organizing seminars and boot camps that focus on sports and academic excellence. Brighton's contributions have been recognized with brand ambassadorships for Diadora and Engen, as well as a feature in The Journey magazine.

Zozibini Tunzi, crowned Miss Universe 2019, made history as the first black South African woman to win the title. Previously crowned Miss South Africa 2019, she is known for breaking beauty stereotypes, becoming the first Miss Universe to win with afro-textured hair. Tunzi’s pageantry journey began in 2017, and after competing in Miss South Africa 2019, she went on to win Miss Universe, advancing through all stages of the competition. As Miss Universe, she traveled globally and became the longest reigning titleholder due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Post her reign, Tunzi made her acting debut in the 2022 film The Woman King.

The individual must demonstrate exceptional creativity and innovation in their work, producing original and groundbreaking content that sets new standards in media, broadcasting, or entertainment.

The work should have a significant cultural impact, resonating with audiences, celebrating African heritage, and contributing to the preservation and promotion of the continent’s rich cultural diversity.

The professional should be recognized as a thought leader and influencer in their field, inspiring peers, emerging talents, and audiences through their visionary work and dedication.