Content is king and the creators prove it every day. With content creation, they are the directors, actors and producers of their own shows.
And they are being celebrated again as the DStv Content Creator Awards are back for the second time and an array of creators will be given their flowers on the night.
Comedian and media personality Donovan Goliath has been tapped to host, which should be a memorable experience for him as he has also been nominated for two awards after winning one last year in the categories for Sol Content Creator and Thumb-Stopping.
“I'm obviously super excited for it. I was a winner last year so to come back on to that stage and actually hold the whole thing together is amazing. I'm a little bit nervous as well. You know, you are performing in front of a room full of some of the most talented, the most creative, the funniest, most entertaining people in the country. So, you really have to bring you’re A-game.”
Donovan thinks these awards are important as they connect content creators and strengthen bonds in this silo of entertainment.
“I think the DStv Content Creator Awards are helping to recognize and celebrate content creators in South Africa. I think this is a great platform to showcase people's talent and put people on the map. There's great opportunity here for collaboration,” the 43-year-old says.
Read more | Donald returns with a new single and a fresh sound
“If you look at a lot of the big brands that are going to be involved, a lot of the people that are going to be watching this in terms of putting people out there. This is that one platform that really does it.”
He may very well have to juggle his hosting duties with accepting awards, “I was super surprised to be nominated yet again for the second year running. I wasn't expecting that at all but it's a great feeling. You know, it will be very awkward though if I do win something and I'm the one calling out that name would be amazing. Now, that's content,” he jokes.
He says he hopes the judges put some thought into the whole process, adding to the levity of the moment.
Some may dismiss this whole idea of content creation but those who do it right and bridge the worlds of art and content put a lot of effort and thought into it.
“It's really difficult and it takes a very long time. Don't come here thinking you're going to be an overnight success. It happens to some people, but if you do become an overnight success, make sure you prepare to handle that because people are going to be expecting a lot from you, but you must put the work in and you have to show up every single day,” he warns.
Read more | An ex-cop reveals how he was caught stealing drugs from the airport
“Authenticity is your friend. Gear often doesn't matter. A story is a lot more powerful than shooting on the latest camera.”
Why do we have the Content Creator Awards?
If we think about this in a rudimentary way, then this event is built to honour people who have for the most part taken videos of themselves and posted them. This isn’t exactly a complicated thing but the creator of these awards, Manuela Dias de Deus assures us that there is genius to be found on social media and in the idea of content.
“This year marks only the second DStv Content Creator Awards. During lockdown, so many of us turned to content creators to keep us entertained and we wanted to celebrate those who continue to make us feel good with their exceptional content. Today, we want to celebrate content that has made an impact over the past 12 months as well as both creators and brands who have successfully utilised influencers as part of their marketing strategy.”
She says the point of these awards is to shine a light on the content creators, influencers, brands and agencies who have created thumb-stopping content over the past year.
“We are really excited about its return. These awards validate the hard work and determination that every single content creator put into the content they create. After a successful launch last year, we are looking forward to bringing these awards back for year two in 2023,” she says.
There are 19 categories, eight of which the public were able to vote for online. These are divided into two groups: Captivating Content and Special Interest.
Captivating Content includes, Cause/Social Commentary Award, the Sol Content Creator Award, the DStv Content Creator of the Year Award, Thumb-stopping Award, 947 Emerging Creator, Alter-Ego, Funniest Content and Song of the Year awards.
Special Interest includes categories like, Knowledge Sharing Award, Fashion & Style Award, Foodie and Dance Award.
The Dstv Content Creator Awards will take place on September 9.
