Culture Craze
Lasizwe Dambuza Sparks Debate Over Paid Voting at the SASMAs
South African YouTuber and media personality Lasizwe Dambuza has found himself at the centre of a heated debate after publicly asking fans not to vote for him in this year’s South African Social Media Awards (SASMAs).
The 27-year-old entertainer, best known for his comedic skits and online presence, leads the 2025 nominations with three major nods. Yet in a viral video released this week, he shocked followers by urging them to save their money instead of casting paid votes in his favour.
“I cannot in good conscience ask you to spend your hard-earned money so I can hold a piece of glass that will collect dust,” he told fans, explaining that money for votes could go towards essentials like bread, transport, or electricity.
A Clash Over What Awards Really Mean
Dambuza’s stance has split opinion across the country. Many praised him for prioritising the financial struggles of ordinary South Africans, especially in a tough economic climate. Others felt his rejection of votes undermines the very system that helps creators gain recognition and career opportunities.
At the centre of the controversy is the SASMAs’ voting structure. Fans initially had to buy a minimum of R10 in votes, but after public criticism, the minimum was reduced to R2.50 per vote. While organisers insist the money supports production costs such as venues, trophies, and staff, critics argue the model unfairly profits off fans.
One TikTok user summed it up bluntly: “He’s literally saying you guys are going to spend money you need to survive, and he’s not going to see any of it. He just gets a glass trophy.”
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Social Media Fires Up
The debate quickly spread on TikTok, Twitter, and Instagram. Some creators echoed Dambuza’s frustration, questioning whether award shows are more about business than celebrating talent. “Where does all that money go?” one user asked. “Shouldn’t winners get a share if fans are footing the bill?”
Others defended the system, pointing out that awards can open doors. “If Lasizwe doesn’t want votes, he should withdraw,” a critic argued. “Other creators need this recognition. Awards bring gigs and sponsorships.”
This isn’t the first time the SASMAs have faced scrutiny. In 2024, organisers came under fire for overlooking local creator Onezwa Mbola while nominating international influencer Nara Smith, sparking questions about credibility and inclusivity.
SASMAs Respond
Kholofelo Lehong, marketing coordinator for the SASMAs, addressed the backlash, emphasising that the awards are run as a non-profit and rely on fan votes to cover expenses.
“The R2.50 voting fee is not designed for profit but helps ensure a secure, fair, and spam-free process,” Lehong said. He added that the event exists to support youth entrepreneurship, digital innovation, and brand collaborations in South Africa’s creative sector.
As the SASMAs mark their fifth year, the controversy has sparked a bigger conversation about the value of awards in an age where creators already have direct access to their audiences. For some, trophies still symbolise credibility. For others, they are outdated relics of a system that profits from fan loyalty.
@_kayradebeThe SASMA awards are trending (again) and this time it’s from Lasizwe asking his fans not to spend their hard earned money on votes
Beyond the Trophy
Lasizwe Dambuza’s video has struck a chord because it goes beyond one awards show. It highlights the tension between recognition, financial realities, and the business of entertainment. In a country where youth unemployment remains high, the stakes are not just about who takes home a trophy but about what kind of industry South African creators are building.
Whether fans see the SASMAs as a celebration of talent or an exploitation of their wallets, one thing is certain: Dambuza has forced an uncomfortable but necessary conversation about what it means to support creators in 2025.
Also read: Lasizwe Turns Down SASMA Votes, Urges Fans to Keep Their Money
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Source: IOL
Featured Image: East Coast Radio
