Tyla continues to blaze a trail on the global stage, this time as both host and winner at the 2025 Nickelodeon Kids’ Choice Awards (KCAs). The 23-year-old South African music sensation lit up the Barker Hangar in Santa Monica, California, as the first African artist to host the iconic show — and she didn’t leave empty-handed. Tyla took home the award for Favourite Global Music Star (Africa) in front of an energetic, slime-filled crowd.
Opening the show in signature style, Tyla led a “Best of Summer” dance celebration, featuring this season’s hottest tracks mixed live by DJ Benny Blanco. Dancers flooded the stage in a colourful choreography that got the crowd on their feet — even Smurfette joined the action for a surprise cameo that delighted kids and families worldwide.
This marked Tyla’s first time hosting an international awards show, a moment she described as “full circle.” Speaking ahead of the event, she shared, “I auditioned for Nickelodeon when I was a kid, so to be here now, hosting… it’s wild.” Laughing, she added, “I just hope I only get a little drizzle of slime.”
That hope didn’t last long. By the end of the night, Tyla was completely drenched in classic green slime, alongside co-presenters Jack Griffo and girl group KATSEYE, keeping with the KCAs’ legendary antics.
Her big win — Favourite Global Music Star (Africa) — was announced midway through the show. Tyla, beaming with joy, accepted the award saying:
“This means the world to me — to represent Africa on a global stage and be recognised by all of you amazing kids out there… wow. Thank you for believing in me and dancing with me. Africa to the world!”
She triumphed over other global nominees from Asia, Australia, Europe, Latin America, North America, and the UK, cementing her place as one of the most influential artists of her generation. The win adds to an ever-growing list of accolades, including a Grammy, American Music Award, and over 30 international honours.
The night also saw Sabrina Carpenter dominate with three wins, including Favourite Song (“Espresso”), Breakout Artist, and Favourite Album.
Tyla’s standout hosting gig and victory marked a major milestone for South African representation in global pop culture — and she did it all with style, smiles, and slime.
