Online Reporter
Langalihle Mhiti
Youth Interactive Writer
A new era in Zimbabwe’s entertainment scene is being driven not just by talent, but by fans loyal, loud and online. Social media platforms like TikTok, Instagram and YouTube have turned ordinary young creatives into viral stars, and fans are here for it.
“I discovered Raymer on TikTok and now I follow all his music,” said 19-year-old Chido Murehwa from Warren Park. “He’s real and relatable. We support him because he represents us, the youth.”
Across Zimbabwe, fans like Chido are using their digital presence to hype, share, and support young artists. Dancer Tanya from Westlea shared, “Sometimes a single repost by fans can push your video to go viral. Fans are the real game-changers.”
In Mbare, college student Kudzi Dube explained how Instagram changed the game: “Back then, artists needed radio or TV to get famous. Now, if a fan likes your work and shares it with their friends, you can get thousands of views in hours.”
Even in smaller towns, youth are connecting with creatives. “I don’t live in Harare, but I feel close to these artists because of social media,” said Mavis Gondo from Kambuzuma. “We feel part of their journey.”
The rise of young artist, Zimdancehall sensation, Ngwere Diki is another example. “I first saw his freestyle on TikTok and I was blown away,” said Brian, a music enthusiast from Warren Park D. “Now I follow all his performances and I’ve even wish to see him perform live.”
Zimbabwean youth aren’t just watching they’re actively shaping entertainment. In comment sections, DMs, and group chats, fans are uplifting their own, making stardom possible in a way never seen before. As social media grows, so does the power of the fanbase.
However, Hollywood sensation Kylie Jenner, rose through social media with her beauty product.
Kylie Jenner built her social media success by consistently blending personal life updates with product promotion, creating a relatable, “dream world” for followers, and leveraging her existing family network and beauty influencer collaborations.
Her initial rise was significantly fuelled by public interest in her changing appearance and her ability to capitalise on trends, like the viral lip challenge, to launch her highly successful Kylie Cosmetics brand. By maintaining a strong presence and engaging with her audience on platforms like Instagram and Snapchat, she fostered loyalty and transformed her influence into a powerful marketing tool.
Online Reporter