Popular South African content creator Lasizwe Dambuza has sparked widespread discussion after publicly asking his fans not to vote for him in the upcoming 2025 South African Social Media Awards (Sasmas). Despite earning three nominations—the most of any nominee this year—Lasizwe took a bold stand, prioritizing social responsibility over personal accolades.
In a heartfelt message shared across his platforms, the 27-year-old said he could not, in good conscience, ask his supporters to spend money on votes while many South Africans are struggling to afford basic necessities.
“The voting system costs money, and I do not believe you should have to pay to show support,” Lasizwe explained in a candid Instagram video. “That money could go towards bread, electricity, taxi fare, and actual survival. I can’t ask you to spend your hard-earned money on a piece of glass that will collect dust.”
Lasizwe’s Stand Against Paid Voting Sparks National Debate
Each vote in the Sasmas costs R10 for four votes, a model that many feel disproportionately benefits the organizers rather than the nominees or their communities. Lasizwe’s refusal to endorse this system has reignited an ongoing debate about the commercialisation of award shows, where recognition is often linked to who can mobilize the most financial support rather than merit alone.
He elaborated further on X (formerly Twitter):
“Please don’t vote for me for the Sasma awards, especially if you will be spending your money that I won’t receive.”
His forthright comments have received mixed responses. While many have applauded Lasizwe for taking a principled stand, others have questioned his motives, accusing him of creating controversy to generate buzz and increase his social media visibility.
This is not the first time Lasizwe has used his platform to address pressing social issues. In 2021, he launched the #R10GoesALongWay campaign, which raised over R2 million to support underprivileged students struggling to pay university tuition. The campaign highlighted his ability to leverage digital influence for meaningful impact and cemented his status as one of South Africa’s most socially aware online personalities.
His latest stand against paid voting fits neatly into this pattern. Rather than pushing for personal recognition, Lasizwe continues to highlight the realities many South Africans face daily—bringing a grounded, empathetic voice to a space often dominated by glitz and glamor.
Lasizwe has been nominated in three major categories at the 2025 Sasmas:
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African Social Media Star of the Year
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Most Popular Content Across Platforms
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Social Media Personality of the Year
These categories place him in direct competition with global heavyweights such as Tyla, Black Coffee, and international influencer Khaby Lame. But even with the high-profile competition and potential global recognition, Lasizwe has opted not to campaign for votes.
“I love my fans too much to ask them to give away money during these hard times. Recognition is beautiful, but not at the cost of people’s wellbeing,” he said in another Instagram story.
Following Lasizwe’s statement, fellow influencer Kay Yarms echoed his concerns, calling into question the ethics behind monetized voting structures. Her comments added more momentum to the discussion, prompting some fans to question whether such awards are truly about celebrating talent—or simply revenue generation.
The GOOD Party’s recent criticism of the commercialisation of public assets aligns with this broader conversation about how systems, whether in politics or entertainment, often place profit over people.
Lasizwe’s comments have forced fans and fellow creators alike to reflect on what recognition should look like in the digital age. With millions of followers across Instagram, YouTube, TikTok, and Facebook, Lasizwe has never been dependent on awards to validate his influence. His popularity stems from authenticity, relatability, and his willingness to speak out on uncomfortable truths.
In fact, his career—launched through comedic Facebook skits and later cemented through shows like Awkward Dates and Lasizwe: Fake It Till You Make It—has shown that grassroots content and community engagement often matter more than trophies.
Voting for the 2025 Sasmas remains open until November 8, and while other nominees are expected to continue rallying their fanbases, Lasizwe has made it abundantly clear: he will not be part of that campaign.
“My legacy is not determined by awards. It’s determined by how I treat people and what I stand for,” he concluded.
Source- Fakaza
