Ntsiki Mazwai Is Trending Again As Nota Baloyi Stated Reasons Why She Is Not Celebrated

South African poet, activist, and cultural commentator Ntsiki Mazwai is once again at the centre of a heated social media storm — and this time, it involves music executive Nota Baloyi and actress Pearl Thusi.

What started as a personal reflection quickly turned into a national debate about recognition, ego, and accountability in South Africa’s creative industry.

In a recent post on X, Ntsiki openly demanded recognition for her contributions to the country’s creative space. She listed her work across poetry, music, beadwork, podcasting, and activism, insisting she had helped pave the way for many emerging artists who now thrive in the industry.

However, the post did not land the way she expected.

Music executive Nota Baloyi responded with a brutal public takedown, accusing Ntsiki of being selfish, self-centred, and obsessed with validation. According to Nota, Ntsiki does not deserve praise because she has never celebrated anyone but herself.

He went even further, claiming that Ntsiki has never supported or publicly celebrated her own siblings, arguing that true greatness is shown through uplifting others — not demanding applause.

One of the most controversial moments in Nota’s rant was his reference to Ntsiki’s past Marie Claire nude photoshoot, which he labelled a “colonised mentality.” His words were sharp, personal, and unapologetic.

“You don’t celebrate anyone other than yourself,” Nota wrote. “We will never celebrate you.”

As expected, the internet erupted.

Some fans rallied behind Ntsiki, arguing that Black creatives are often erased, undervalued, and expected to stay silent about their achievements. Supporters praised her for boldly claiming her legacy in a system that rarely gives flowers while people are still alive.

Others, however, sided with Nota, pointing to Ntsiki’s history of online feuds and controversial opinions, saying her delivery often overshadows her message.

But the drama didn’t end there.

While the Nota feud was still trending, Ntsiki, before Christmas Eve, inserted herself into another viral controversy involving actress Pearl Thusi.

Pearl has been facing intense backlash following comments she made during the memorial service of late DJ Warras. During her speech, she spoke about the closeness of their relationship and made remarks suggesting the DJ wanted to “cuddle” with her — comments many felt were inappropriate for a funeral setting.

Social media users accused Pearl of making the moment about herself, sparking outrage, ridicule, and debate.

As the backlash grew, actor Siv Ngesi publicly showed support for Pearl with a pink heart emoji on X. That single gesture was enough to trigger Ntsiki.

In her signature sarcastic tone, Ntsiki responded with just three words:
“Application for cuddles.”

The comment instantly went viral.

Many interpreted it as a direct jab at both Pearl and Siv, adding fuel to an already blazing fire. Supporters laughed it off as classic Ntsiki commentary, while critics accused her of capitalising on grief and controversy for relevance.

With two major controversies unfolding simultaneously, one thing is clear: Ntsiki Mazwai remains one of South Africa’s most polarising voices — loved by some for her fearlessness, criticised by others for her confrontational style.

The question now is no longer who is right or wrong — but why these debates keep resurfacing, and whether the industry truly knows how to honour its creatives without tearing them apart.