10 South African Entrepreneurs Who Are Global Ambassadors
10 South African Entrepreneurs Who Are Global Ambassadors. These entrepreneurs, influencers and sports stars have used their platforms and global reach to act as ambassadors for major brands, bringing international attention to South African talent and innovation. Here are ten South African entrepreneurs who have become global ambassadors for major brands, leveraging their influence and success to represent and promote these brands worldwide:
Nomzamo Mbatha
South African actress and humanitarian Nomzamo Mbatha has been serving as a LuQuLuQu High Profile Supporter for several years and was appointed as a Goodwill Ambassador for UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency in January 2019. Since her appointment as a High-Profile Supporter for the LuQuLuQu campaign in 2017, she has visited four refugee camps with UNHCR in Malawi, Kenya, and South Sudan. Nomzamo has said that “For so long the image of the refugee has been that of despair and destitution, but when you come to the camps, you see the spirit of resilience, you see the spirit of rebuilding.”
Siya Kolisi
South African rugby captain Siya Kolisi is South African Tourism’s new global brand advocate. Kolisi is the first of the brand advocates who will take part in a campaign – The best of us – to celebrate South African excellence. The two-time Rugby World Cup-winning Springbok captain Kolisi has also joined SuperSport, Your World of Champions, as an official brand Ambassador. SuperSport is proud to announce the association with Kolisi, the inspirational leader who captained the Boks to a historic fourth Rugby World Cup victory in France, making South Africa the first country to achieve that mark.
Thuso Mbedu
In 2023, South African actress Thuso Mbedu became the ambassador and spokesperson of L’Oréal for Sub-Saharan Africa. L’Oréal S.A. is a French multinational personal care company headquartered in Clichy, Hauts-de-Seine, with a registered office in Paris. As of 2018, it was the world’s largest cosmetics company and has developed activities in the field, concentrating on hair color, skin care, sun protection, make-up, perfume, and hair care.
Cheslin Kolbe
South African rugby star Cheslin Kolbe is the latest sports ambassador to join forces with Prime Hydration, the energy drink brand co-founded by Logan Paul and KSI.
Percy Tau
Bafana Bafana and Al Ahly forward Percy Tau has proved to be a popular brand in Egypt as he has landed himself a sponsorship deal with Egyptian biscuit company Taw Taw.
DJ Zinhle
Global beauty powerhouse Avon South Africa has announced its collaboration with the iconic DJ Zinhle as its new brand ambassador. According to Avon, this partnership goes beyond the surface, bringing forth a fresh narrative that emphasises the power of authenticity and self-empowerment. Avon South Africa says that with DJ Zinhle, it is set to embark on a journey that will inspire and uplift women, encouraging them to embrace their power and live authentically.
Pearl Thusi
Actress, model, TV presenter and iconic South African media personality, Pearl Thusi acquired ownership equity in Black Rose gin. Thusi announced that not only was she the ambassador of Black Rose Gin, but she also owned a stake in the alcohol brand, which is owned by Luxe Brands.
Maps Maponyane
Lexus South Africa announced the appointment of Maps Maponyane, a renowned television presenter, actor, entrepreneur and fashion icon, as its newest brand ambassador. This partnership signifies a dynamic alignment between the luxury automotive brand and Maps Maponyane, reflecting shared values of lifestyle, elegance, craftsmanship, and a commitment to sustainability.
Eben Etzebeth
International Rugby Player, Eben Etzebeth teamed up with Bayer as an ambassador for Berocca® in South Africa. The collaboration between Eben and Berocca® marks a union that is geared towards bringing consumers closer to the action. This ambassadorship with Eben ties in perfectly with Berocca’s mission to support many consumers such as athletes to stay sharp and physically fit to reach their full potential.
Linda Mtoba
With about 2 million followers on instagram – Linda is renowned for her relatability, storytelling prowess, and aesthetic social media content. Linda has collaborated with global brands and is a proud ambassador for Tom Voyager, a leather goods and apparel brand in South Africa.
