Nomzamo Mbatha Shines on Global Stage
Multi-talented South African actress, model, and humanitarian Nomzamo Mbatha has added another milestone to her remarkable career. This week, the 2025 TIME100 Next list officially recognised her as one of the world’s most influential rising stars in advocacy.
Mbatha, who has become a prominent voice for refugee rights through her role as a UNHCR Goodwill Ambassador, shared the news with her Instagram followers, expressing gratitude and disbelief:
“Speechless… Your girl made the 2025 #TIME100NextList and all I have in my little hands are a million thank you’s ✨ Still in complete disbelief! 😭😫 What a season. What gratitude to live through all my vision board whispers. @time This one is for KWAMASHU 🏆.”
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Joining a Global Roster of Leaders and Innovators
The TIME100 Next list celebrates rising stars across industries, from artists and athletes to tech innovators and political leaders. Mbatha shares the recognition with notable figures such as singer-songwriter Teyana Taylor, tennis champion Taylor Fritz, and Guyana’s president Irfaan Ali.
In the advocacy category, she stands alongside inspiring peers like Rose Njeri Tunguru, a Nairobi-based software developer, LGBTQIA+ activist Viktoria Radvanyi, and Sudanese poet and humanitarian Emi Mahmoud.
Humanitarian Work at the Heart of the Recognition
TIME magazine highlighted Mbatha’s hands-on approach to advocacy:
“From field missions in Malawi, Kenya, and South Sudan with UNHCR to global platforms like TEDx Kakuma, she has amplified refugee voices with empathy and courage … Nomzamo has proved she doesn’t just use her platform. She is the walking manifestation of it.”
Mbatha’s work extends beyond public appearances, with a clear commitment to uplifting marginalized communities, particularly refugees, through awareness, policy influence, and direct engagement on the ground.
Mzansi Celebrates Her Achievement
South African celebrities and friends flooded social media to congratulate Mbatha on the global honour. Among the messages were:
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Ama Qamata, star of Blood and Water: “Omg!! Congrats Zamo🥹🙌🏾🍾.”
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Carol Bouwer, former Generations star: “I am loving your journey! #ownlanechronicles❤️.”
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Latoyah Mei-Modikoane, comedian Mpho Popps’ wife: “Would you look at GOD!!!👏🏾🥹😭 Congratulations, my friend, you are so deserving of this. Super proud of you ❤️.”
Mbatha responded personally to each message, reflecting her humility and deep appreciation for her peers and supporters.
From KwaMashu to the World
This recognition is more than a personal achievement—it’s a moment of pride for KwaMashu, Durban, and South Africa at large. Mbatha has become a symbol of what young South Africans can accomplish on the global stage, blending talent with purpose, and showing that advocacy can be a powerful extension of celebrity influence.
Her inclusion in TIME100 Next underscores her impact: she’s not just a household name in entertainment, but a catalyst for social change, carrying the voices of the vulnerable to audiences worldwide.
Source: IOL
Featured Image: X{@MDNnewss}
