In a recent surge of participation in viral social media challenges, Simz Ngema, a renowned actress and singer, decided to join the ‘Tshwala Bami’ TikTok challenge, a dance craze that has taken both local and international audiences by storm. Despite her enthusiasm and effort to match the original dance moves, Ngema’s rendition did not seem to resonate well with the South African audience, sparking a wave of criticism and trolling from netizens.
The ‘Tshwala Bami’ challenge, originating from a catchy track, has seen numerous celebrities and TikTok users trying to emulate its unique dance moves. Among those who have previously impressed fans are Bontle Modiselle and Robot Boii, whose performance was so seamless that some accused them of having an unfair advantage. However, Ngema’s attempt was met with less admiration, leading to a flurry of comments suggesting that her dance was less than impressive.
Critics were quick to voice their opinions on social media, with some suggesting that Ngema should have refrained from posting her dance video. Comments ranged from playful jabs about the challenge getting out of hand to more pointed remarks about age-appropriateness and the quality of her dancing. Despite the backlash, some users came to her defense, highlighting her beauty and the courage it took to participate.
The ‘Tshwala Bami’ challenge has not only captivated individuals but also families, as seen in an earlier report featuring Andile Mpisane and his mother, Shauwn “MaMkhize” Mkhize, who also took part in the challenge. Their participation received mixed reactions, with some admiring their family bond while others critiqued their dance skills.
This phenomenon underscores the power of social media challenges in engaging a wide range of participants, from celebrities to everyday users, and the varied reactions they can elicit from the public. As the ‘Tshwala Bami’ challenge continues to spread, it serves as a reminder of the diverse tastes and opinions that make up South Africa’s vibrant social media landscape.
