The Word ‘CULTURE’ gets tossed around so frequently, especially in the entertainment industry, that it’s started to lose its true meaning, but I like how Moozlie defines it: “For me, culture is the world we live in. It’s something I would still love and be obsessed with, even if it wasn’t on display for everyone to see — that’s music, fashion, art, and the people who bring those things to life. We call it culture, but it’s really our community, and I’ve always seen myself as a servant to the game.”
Moozlie’s success isn’t just about being part of the culture; it’s about how seamlessly she blends in with it. I’ve seen her host the annual GQ Best Dressed for two years in a row, in 2023 and 2024, and I was genuinely impressed.
“I’ve been [presenting] for twelve years now, and I don’t take that for granted,” she says. “I’ve put in the hours, and I haven’t just dabbled here and there. I’ve consistently been at the top of my game since the beginning, which is such a blessing. So, 110%, I owe it to the hours and the experience.”
Her big break came in 2012 when she won the MTV Base VJ Search, a pivotal moment that launched her career. While many might have settled into a comfortable TV gig, Moozlie chose to build her brand.
“Bonang Matheba was one of the judges for the MTV Base VJ Search, and she advised us to find something about ourselves that we could bottle and sell. I embraced my short hair and branded myself as ‘Your favourite bald chick, Moozlie.’ Everyone bought into it, and that’s how I became that girl.”
Nomuzi Mabena, better known as Moozlie, has solidified herself as a cultural powerhouse in the South African entertainment scene.
From dominating the mic to making waves in fashion and entrepreneurship, she is the multi-hyphenate who embodies both edge and elegance — much like the perfect blend of Jack Daniel’s and Coca-Cola.
Back in her audition days, she had short hair, which was a definite advantage. It allowed her to sleep in a bit longer each morning. “Some of the other girls had to get up early to have their hair done. Plus, I was partying a lot, so being able to stand in the shower after a night out and feel the water on my scalp was just incredible. And financially, it was very affordable,” she admits.
Born in Benoni in the East Rand, she spent her early years in Daveyton. Her dad levelled up and moved them to the suburbs.
“I must say, I had a beautiful upbringing and attended one of the best private schools in Benoni. It exposed me to a diverse range of people. On weekends, I’d return to the hood, spending much of my time in church because my parents were very involved in the community. As a kid, I often wondered why my mom was at funerals or family gatherings every weekend. But for her, it was about helping others and being there when they needed support. That was the environment I grew up in.”
I was fortunate to witness Moozlie at the GQ cover shoot, where, despite the hours and numerous outfit changes, she maintained an incredible energy throughout.
There’s no doubt she was born for this, truly embodying the Jack Daniel’s and Coca-Cola tagline, “Born ready.” She says, “Being born ready doesn’t mean you wake up each morning fully prepared; it’s something you cultivate daily. It’s a mindset — a commitment to showing up strong, even in the face of anxiety and depression. It’s refreshing to hear brands embrace this narrative.
While many alcohol brands shy away from such discussions, Jack Daniel’s and Coca-Cola acknowledges the hardworking individuals who make real decisions every day, and they want to stand for that.”
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