As anticipation builds ahead of the 2026 NXT Honors Global Digital Celebration, attention across Africa’s creative and digital communities has narrowed to one defining question: who will emerge as the next Breakout Star?
The awards ceremony will stream live on Friday, February 6, at 8 p.m. WAT on the official Norté YouTube channel, sparking intense debate across social media as fans and industry watchers dissect this year’s nominations.
Historically, the Breakout Star category has been dominated by Southern and West African creatives. Ghanaian digital creator Emmanuel Ankrah, popularly known as Drill, clinched the title last year, following South Africa’s Khosi Twala — winner of Big Brother Titans and the first personality to appear on the cover of Top Charts South Africa.
Organisers say the category has evolved into one of the most closely watched honours at NXT, spotlighting creators whose influence transcends borders, platforms, and traditional media.
“This award has become a barometer for the next wave of continental influence,” one organiser noted.
This year’s shortlist reflects growing diversity, with eight nominees drawn from South Africa, Ghana, and Nigeria — reigniting debate over whether Nigeria can finally claim the title after years of strong representation.
South Africa remains a formidable contender. Akhonamathemba Mbele-Zwane, one of the nominees, has built a strong profile through television appearances and strategic brand partnerships, earning a reputation for versatility and consistent audience engagement. Fellow South African nominee Ashley Brylnn Ogle has successfully transitioned from reality television into lifestyle branding, reinforcing what industry observers describe as South Africa’s ability to package local talent for global relevance.
Ghana returns to the spotlight through Dennis Oheneba Mitterrand, a digital storyteller celebrated for culture-driven narratives and personal storytelling. His nomination underscores Ghana’s growing reputation for creators with strong narrative depth and cultural resonance. As one observer put it, “Ghanaian creators continue to punch above their weight in digital storytelling.”
Nigeria, however, boasts the strongest presence this year, fielding multiple nominees across entertainment, fashion, lifestyle, and music — a reflection of the country’s expanding digital ecosystem.
Precious “Dede” Ashiogwu has earned widespread admiration for her emotional authenticity and relatable content, while Imisi Ayanwale commands attention with a fashion-forward digital identity that resonates strongly with younger audiences. Music creator Folarin “Fola” Odunlami continues to build momentum, attracting a growing fan base with his energetic sound and consistent releases.
Faith Adewale has also emerged as a standout, recognised for his crossover influence beyond social media into mainstream entertainment conversations. Completing Nigeria’s lineup is Koyinsola Sanusi, professionally known as Koyin, whose modelling background and strong visual storytelling have positioned him as a lifestyle and fashion influencer to watch.
Commenting on Nigeria’s strong showing, a digital culture analyst said, “The volume and range of Nigerian nominees reflect just how vibrant and competitive the country’s digital creative space has become.”
With South Africa and Ghana already boasting previous winners, expectations are high for Nigeria to turn representation into victory. Industry watchers believe the outcome will offer insight into shifting trends in African digital influence, audience engagement, and creator monetisation.
Regardless of the final result, this year’s Breakout Star category is widely viewed as evidence of a continental shift — where talent discovery is increasingly organic, fast-moving, and no longer bound by geography.
When the NXT Honors Global Digital Celebration goes live on Friday, February 6, all eyes will be on the screen to see which creator captures the spotlight — and potentially reshapes the narrative of African digital stardom.
