Vusumuzi Dube
Mthokozisi Ncube, [email protected]
Local video vixen Nessa Nobz has put the country on the continental map after earning top recognition at the Music Video Africa Awards (MVAA) 2025 held in Lagos, Nigeria, recently.
The 22-year-old creative, Nessa Nobz born Nobesuthu Vanessa, scooped honours in the Best MVAA Video Vixen Performance of the Year category, beating competition from some of Africa’s finest video vixens from Zambia, Tanzania and Nigeria.
Hailing from Bulawayo, Nessa Nobz has steadily built a name for herself in the entertainment industry as a video vixen, fashion commercial model, event brand promoter, marketer and budding content creator.
She has featured in several local music videos, working with artistes such as Kaykid Umfanomsotho and Kwezi on Inhliziyo, Fab G Mshanakagogo on Uthandiwe, Zagoe Radge on Kabasdedeli, as well as Saintfloew and Jah Master on Thank You Lord.
Her growing portfolio earned her continental recognition at the glitzy MVAA ceremony. The awards attracted creatives from across Africa, including musicians, actors, models and comedians.
The MVAA has quickly established itself as one of the fast-growing platforms celebrating excellence in Africa’s music video and entertainment industry, with Nessa Nobz’s win signalling Zimbabwe’s increasing visibility on the continental stage.
Other Zimbabwean nominees at the awards showcase included outspoken social media personality Mai TT, who was nominated for Best Actress in Africa, and male model Emmanuel Mashiri, nominated for Outstanding Male Model in Africa.
Speaking to Zimpapers after her victory, Nessa Nobz described the experience as both shocking and rewarding.
“Being nominated at an international level and representing Zimbabwe came as a shock because I’m still young in the industry. Winning felt amazing and showed me that my work is being noticed locally and internationally,” she said.
She added that the recognition will likely open doors for more opportunities beyond the country’s borders.
“To me, it’s a step towards greatness. The category was very competitive, and I learnt that I need to explore opportunities beyond Zimbabwe.
“These awards give us a platform to connect and collaborate across Africa,” she said.
Nessa Nobz also encouraged aspiring models and video vixens to remain focused and professional.
“Don’t limit yourself to the local scene. Always remember why you started and never give up. Being a video vixen is challenging, but if you stand your ground, know your values, and maintain professionalism, you will succeed.”
Born in Sanford, United Kingdom, on April 4, 2003, Nessa Nobz was raised by her grandmother, who died when she was 19. Since then, she has navigated life independently, channelling her energy into building a career in the arts and entertainment space.
derick.khumalo