From the streets of Soweto to YouTube stardom and Forbes Africa’s 30 Under 30 list, Lasizwe Dambuza has carved out a space where comedy, authenticity, and social impact collide. Best known for his viral skits, online personas like Nomatriquency, and reality TV flair, Lasizwe is one of South Africa’s most influential digital creators — and he’s just getting started.
Here are 7 surprising facts you should know about Lasizwe:
1. He’s the First African to Star in an MTV Africa Reality Show
Lasizwe made history with @Lasizwe: Fake It Till You Make It — MTV Africa’s first reality show led by an African. In just under two years, the series delivered three seasons, skyrocketing his fame and giving viewers front-row seats to the glitz, hustle, and chaos of Lasizwe’s life.
2. He Raised R2 Million for Students in Need
In 2020–2021, amid national #FeesMustFall protests, Lasizwe launched the #R10GoesALongWay campaign — raising over R2 million to help 313 students pay registration fees. That wasn’t a stunt; it was a movement.
“From making videos in the streets of Pimville to Forbes… Anything is possible.” – Lasizwe
3. His Fictional Character “Nomatriquency” Secured Real Endorsements
Lasizwe’s beloved skit character Nomatriquency — a loud, sassy woman with wigs and wild one-liners — became so iconic that brands lined up to collaborate. From GAME Stores to Steers, Nomatriquency has become a legit marketing powerhouse, even winning two Prism Awards in 2022.
4. His YouTube Shows Are Comedy Gold
Lasizwe’s YouTube game is on fire. In 2021, he launched Drink or Tell the Truth, a spicy celebrity Q&A show with a twist. Then in 2023, he dropped Awkward Dates — a blind-date show with local celebs, which earned a SAFTA nomination and is now headed to Mzansi Magic in 2025. Over 1 million subscribers and 125 million views later, Lasizwe is one of SA’s top YouTubers.
5. He Beat the Odds — From DIY Content to Canon’s “Perfect Picture” Champion
Lasizwe used to record videos on a borrowed phone and edit them on his late mother’s laptop. Fast forward to 2023, he won Canon’s The Perfect Picture, walking away with R250,000 in prizes and solidifying his place as a creative force — on and off-screen.
6. He’s a Multi-Platform Star — Netflix, Radio, TV, and More
Lasizwe has done it all: acting in Seriously Single on Netflix, presenting on SABC 1 and MTV Base, starring in Durban Gen, and roasting Minnie Dlamini on Showmax. He’s also worked with Fanta, Volvo, Nando’s, and more — all before turning 27.
7. He Honors His Mother in Everything He Does
Lasizwe’s late mother, Lindiwe Dambuza, was a nurse who took him to TV auditions weekly — even when they could barely afford transport. She passed away in 2016, but Lasizwe often dedicates his milestones to her memory. From Forbes lists to fan-favorite shows, her legacy lives through his success.
