South Africa’s 20 Biggest Influencers in 2025: Who’s Really Running the Internet?

Who’s Really Running SA’s Social Media Game?

Whether you’re looking for fitness motivation, fashion inspo, spiritual guidance or just a good laugh, these South African influencers have built digital empires doing what they love — and their follower counts prove it. Here’s a breakdown of the top 20 social media stars in Mzansi for 2025, ranked by total followers.

1. AB de Villiers (36M followers)

Source: X 

From cricket legend to digital powerhouse, AB de Villiers has evolved from smashing sixes to breaking the internet. The former Proteas captain is a household name with a presence that spans sports, charity work, gaming, and brand ambassadorships. He’s not just beloved on the field — his cheerful energy continues to win over millions online.

2. Trevor Noah (25.9M followers)

Source: X 

Still one of South Africa’s most prominent exports, Trevor Noah continues to use humour to navigate serious conversations. While he’s stepped back from The Daily Show, his influence hasn’t waned. Between books, stand-up, and thought-provoking posts, he remains one of the country’s sharpest voices.

3. Wian (25.5M followers)

Wian’s magic has gone global. The TikTok illusionist has become a viral favourite, with slick tricks and charm that captivate audiences from SA to LA. His jaw-dropping content and collaborations with big brands keep fans coming back for more.

4. Princess Sachiko (24.7M followers)

Source: Princess Saschiko on Instagram

This cosplaying queen has captured the hearts of anime fans around the world. Whether she’s transforming into fantasy characters or hosting streams, Princess Sachiko’s wholesome energy and stunning visuals have built her a loyal fan base.

5. Superherointraining (22.7M followers)

Source: superherointraining on Instagram

With a name like Superherointraining, expectations are high — and they deliver. Based in the UK but repping the continent hard, they’re Africa’s most-viewed content creator. From viral reactions to motivational challenges, their content is always on point.

6. Ryan H/D Lombard (22.3M followers)

Source: Ryan Lomard on Instagram

Ryan’s uplifting family-centered posts and Christian messaging have struck a chord with South Africans. His honest, humorous takes on everyday life and strong faith-based content have made him a favourite for feel-good scrolling.

7. William Last KRM  (32.6M followers)

Source: X

This comedic genius-

turned-musician blends hilarious sketches with infectious beats. His alter ego as the “President of Tshasa Nation” has turned him into a social media legend, and his ability to merge politics, humour and music is unmatched.

8. Tyla (28.3M followers)

Source: X

Suprisingly, Tyla does not top this list. From TikTok dance routines to Victoria’s Secret runways, Tyla is more than a music star — she’s a global icon in the making. Her rise has been meteoric, and with every drop or collab, she keeps the spotlight firmly on South African talent.

9. Noel Deyzel (20.1M followers)

Source: X

A titan in the fitness world, Noel Deyzel is known for his straight-talking gym tips, massive lifts and motivational videos. He’s got years of experience in bodybuilding and shares advice on everything from posing to meal planning. With a clothing brand and coaching business to his name, Noel’s influence goes beyond the screen — he’s helping shape bodies and mindsets around the globe.

10. Cassper Nyovest (13.9M followers)

Source: X 

A consistent chart-topper and trendsetter, Cassper has blended music, entrepreneurship and philanthropy into an all-encompassing brand. He’s built schools, launched fashion lines and headlined some of SA’s biggest concerts — and documented it all online.

11. Bonang Matheba — 11.3M followers

Source: X

Queen B needs no introduction. From her House of BNG luxury brand to hosting major global events, Bonang remains a style and business icon. She’s been slaying social media since before it was cool — and still reigns supreme in 2025.

12. Boity Thulo — 10.7M followers

Boity continues to dominate with a mix of fashion-forward posts, beauty content and lifestyle updates. The Forbes Under 30 alum has evolved into a confident voice of empowerment — all while looking flawless.

13. Black Coffee — 10.2M followers

Source: X

Globally respected for his DJ sets and record productions, Black Coffee’s reach extends far beyond the decks. He’s also a startup investor and philanthropist, keeping his influence high across music, tech and education.

14. Shandor Larenty — 10M followers

Source: X

Lions, cheetahs and TikTok? Shandor brings the wild to your screen. Known for his bond with big cats (especially George the lion), he’s turned his conservation work into must-watch content that’s both heartwarming and educational.

15. John-Marc van Wyk — 9.3M followers

Source: X 

Laughter is universal, and John-Marc’s skits have become daily comic relief for millions. With a focus on unity and relatable humour, his rise shows that clean, clever content still has a place in the scroll.

16. Nasty C — 9.5M followers

Source: X

Durban-born rapper Nasty C continues to elevate SA hip hop with lyrical genius and major collabs. With his new album I Love It Here set to drop, his followers are tuned in for every teaser and freestyle.

17. Jezelle Catherine — 17.5M followers

Source: X

POV storytelling? Jezelle’s got it down to an art. Based between Canada and SA, she creates viral videos that blend drama, humour and slice-of-life moments, keeping her fans constantly entertained and emotionally invested.

18. The Kiffness — 6.4M followers

Source: X 

From satirical remixes to viral musical collabs with animals, The Kiffness is one of SA’s most creative digital exports. His humour and musical timing strike the perfect chord, and he’s never afraid to get quirky.

19. Chad Jones — 5.7M followers

Source: Chad Jones on Instagram

Dance challenges and joy-filled content are Chad’s speciality. With fans across Africa, including Nigeria and Kenya, his feel-good energy and slick moves have built a strong pan-African community.

20. Michelle Davidson — 510K followers

In a digital world often dominated by fast trends, Michelle offers a moment of stillness. Her healing and spiritual content provides a grounding space for followers exploring wellness, energy and self-discovery.

The Bigger Picture

From global stars to niche creators, South African influencers are thriving — not just as entertainers, but as entrepreneurs, educators and cultural ambassadors. Their collective impact is helping to shape how the world sees South Africa: vibrant, creative and forward-thinking.

As local creators continue to go global, there’s never been a better time to support and follow the people putting Mzansi on the map — one post at a time.

Source:Favikon

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