Nomuzi Mabena, widely known as Moozlie, has been celebrated for more than a decade of influence in South African television, music and fashion after receiving a special plaque from Industry Nite SA.
A tribute to lasting impact
The honour formed part of Industry Nite SA’s Women’s Month programme, “From Muse to Mogul,” recognising Mabena’s consistency, character and trailblazing role in shaping Mzansi’s entertainment culture since her breakthrough win in the 2012 MTV Base VJ Search.
Mabena responded to the recognition on social media with her trademark humour and warmth.
“I got my very first plaque,” she wrote, joking that the award was not for millions of streams or views, but for “hard work and dedication.” She added that she was unsure whether it technically qualified as a plaque because it had not been approved by RISA, but said the gesture still gave her a “heartwarming chuckle during prayer.”
She also shared a post featuring the tribute with her followers.
Moozlie’s career journey
- In 2012, Mabena won the MTV Base VJ Search, launching her television career and earning the nickname “Your favourite bald chick.”
- She later joined VUZU as a presenter on V Entertainment.
- After establishing herself on screen, she moved into music, releasing two albums and creating her own record label, Nomuzi Mabena Music.
- Her influence expanded into fashion, including a GQ Magazine cover in 2024.
- In 2025, she won Best Styled Artist of the Year at the Basadi in Music Awards.
The SAFTA-nominated presenter continues to grow her creative empire, while the peer-driven tribute highlights the value of remaining authentic. It also serves as a reminder that recognition for character and consistency can mean more than figures that can be measured through views, streams or other industry metrics.
Reflecting on the honour, Mabena said it reminded her that God cares more about her heart and character than about any level of success she might achieve.
For the artist and entrepreneur, knowing that her work has affected people deeply enough to inspire this kind of acknowledgement is, in her words, “pretty dope.”
Also read: Rapper Nomuzi Mabena discusses returning to the studio and working with international brands.
