South Africa’s superfan Mama Joy took to X, formerly known as Twitter, to let fans know about her latest paid gig. And no, it was not a government-sponsored trip. Instead, a big retailer secured the services of Mama Joy, real name, Joy Chauke, for a big awards event.
According to Briefly News Mama Joy – in the since-deleted posts – said: “With Spar Bosses at Spar Awards, my job is simple here, it is to Present an Award and I am grateful for Spar to think about me as an influencer and Superfan.”
Her fans made their support clear, with @Paul45672375676 saying: “Good For You! I pray that more doors open for you. Wishing you Joy and Happiness. Thank you @My_SPAR for the recognition. I trust your support/partnership for MamaJoy can can soar to greater heights.”
Good For You!
I pray that more doors open for you. Wishing you Joy and Happiness.
Thank you @My_SPAR for the recognition. I trust your support/partnership for MamaJoy can can soar to greater heights?
— Paul Maverick (@Paul46572375676) July 11, 2024
@LampieSamoa added: “Great, thats how corporate South Africa should show up for the #sportingfans not #government through #taxpayers ~ Well done to #SPAR and they could have included #MamaJoy on their programme too.”
Great, thats how corporate South Africa should show up for the #sportingfans not #government through #taxpayers ~ Well done to #SPAR and they could have included #MamaJoy on their programme too
— LampieSamoa?? (@LampieSamoa) July 11, 2024
A video of pictures of Mama Joy at the event is still available on TikTok.
Superfans who are flown around the world and paid to support national teams at events have been in the spotlight this week as Minister of Sports, Arts, and Culture Gayton McKenzie said that he had stopped all trips for superfans.
McKenzie went on to explain that artists and athletes struggle to find funds to attend sporting events and exhibitions.
I have stopped all trips for super fans, we have athletes & artist who are struggling to raise money to attend sporting events and exhibitions, how do we justify paying for fans? We shall no longer be paying for these trips and will use that money where it’s needed the most.
— Gayton McKenzie (@GaytonMcK) July 9, 2024
This announcement left Netizens divided.
I never thought a day will come where I clap hands for you.but today is that day?this nonsense of luxury trips for super fans and certain group of celebrities gatekeeping arts and culture must come to an end.there are so many schools in rural areas who needs sports…
— SewelaNkoana (@sewelankoana) July 9, 2024
If I’m a true fan, I’ll gladly bankroll my own trips to cheer for my team. Why should the government dip into its pockets just to let me enjoy a national team match? Surely, my undying support isn’t worth turning public funds into my personal piggy bank.
— Mosweu | AI Tech Enthusiast ? (@MosweuRSA) July 9, 2024
If I’m a true fan, I’ll gladly bankroll my own trips to cheer for my team. Why should the government dip into its pockets just to let me enjoy a national team match? Surely, my undying support isn’t worth turning public funds into my personal piggy bank.
— Mosweu | AI Tech Enthusiast ? (@MosweuRSA) July 9, 2024
I don’t think that was necessary to do, I think super fans really had so much value. Imagine if South Africa is playing in a foreign country and no one is there to hype them? Unless your staff you will be travelling with will do that job @GaytonMcK. Everyone needs support!
— Yaya Mavundla (@YayaRSA) July 9, 2024
McKenzie has hit the ground running in his new portfolio and has gained lots of positive reactions from the public regarding his stance on how the State’s purse is spent.
Words: Fame Frenzy
