The people have spoken!
History was officially made last night at the inaugural DStv Mzansi Viewers’ Choice Awards. Over 1 million votes were cast for 50 nominees in 10 categories, as South Africa made her voice heard. The glittering gala evening was the culmination of a legendary battle worthy of Mzansi’s entertainment history, as fans put their thumbs through the wringer voting for their favourites in the inaugural DStv Mzansi Viewers’ Choice Awards.
The red carpet at the Sandton International Convention Centre was ruled by ladies in alluring gowns and men in elegant suits, as fans cheered their favourites in an unparalleled fashion and glamour frenzy. Thespians, musicians, sports personalities and comedians were among those who put their best foot forward to be part of entertainment history in the making.
Bonang “Yo Girl B!” Matheba was beguiling as the evening’s MC, as she hosted guests and viewers in flawless style and boasting impeccable fashion. If this was a Night of the Stars, then Matheba was the brightest of all.
The DStv Mzansi Viewers’ Choice Awards was beamed live to millions of households via Mzansi Magic (DStv Channel 161). The show lit up all social media platforms and left the live audience at the ICC and those watching from the small screen in awe, as a parade of Mzansi’s finest entertainment talent walked off the stage clutching the coveted black and gold statuette.
Legendary jazz maestro, Hugh Masekela, was honoured with a Lifetime Achievement Award handed to him by M-Net CEO, Yolisa Phahle.
However, the night was not just about the who’s who of the entertainment industry. Anna Dithane walked off with R50 000 after being named the 1Life Life Changer for uplifting her community, proudly presented by 1Life Direct. Another R50 000 went to Eugene Dithane, who nominated his community warrior mother.
Viewers who voted also got a slice of the cake when one was rewarded with a brand-new Kia Picanto worth R150 000 after beingrandomly selected via an audited process. Another lucky voter found themselves with a R100 000 Vodacom World Shopping Experience after predicting the Song of the Year. It sure is rewarding to a DStv Mzansi viewer, neh!
The top-notch entertainment was befitting a celebration of this magnitude. The ICC auditorium was transformed into a laser-and-tribal print cavern, with the stage hosting – among others – the likes of Lady Zamar, social media dance maven Zodwa Wabantu, the majestic Thandiswa Mazwai, Lion of Judah power voice Lebo Sekgobela and the beautiful ratchetness of Gqom, led by seasoned industry pros DJ Cleo, Winnie Khumalo and Busiswa. Surprise special guest, Tshedi Mholi, made a throwback appearance wearing a ravishing and heavily-embellished fuchsia gown with a train worthy of bodyguards. Her stage partner Cassper Nyovest certainly “gave it away” on stage, and had the audience going wild. It was a sight to behold!
The charismatic gap-toothed Thembisa Mdoda was the belle of the ball as she scooped the gong not only for the Favourite Presenter category, but also the Ultimate Viewers’ Choice Award. It was the perfect ending to a perfect night!
FULL LIST OF THE DSTV MZANSI VIEWERS’ CHOICE AWARD
SONG OF THE YEAR: Prince Kaybee – Charlotte
TV PRESENTER: Thembisa Mdoda
COMEDIAN: Summary
RISING STAR: Sjava
RADIO PERSONALITY: B2Cada
ACTOR: Themba Ndaba
ACTRESS: Vatiswa Ndara
MUSIC ARTIST OR GROUP: Kwesta
DJ: Black Coffee
SPORTS PERSONALITY: Caster Semenya
ULTIMATE VIEWERS’ CHOICE: Thembisa Mdoda