South Africa’s sensational music star Tyla Laura Seethal, known globally as Tyla, has taken another giant leap in her dazzling career, earning a spot on Glamour Magazine’s 2025 Women of the Year list — a recognition that cements her as one of the most influential young women shaping global culture today.
At just 23 years old, the Grammy-winning artist has become a beacon of African excellence, rising from the bustling music streets of Johannesburg to the grandest international stages. Her sound — an irresistible blend of amapiano, gqom, and pop energy — has not only redefined African music’s reach but also introduced a new pulse to the global pop scene.
A Voice from Africa Resonating Worldwide
Tyla’s journey to global acclaim has been meteoric. Her 2023 breakout single “Water” became a viral sensation, dominating social media and earning her a Grammy Award for Best African Music Performance in 2024 — a historic win that made her one of the youngest South Africans to ever take home the golden gramophone.
From the streets of Johannesburg to red carpets in Los Angeles, Tyla’s story reflects the power of youth, rhythm, and resilience.
Glamour’s Tribute to Sisterhood and Strength
This year’s Glamour Women of the Year theme, “Sisterhood,” celebrates solidarity, empowerment, and the collective strength of women across generations.
Tyla shares the spotlight with Hollywood legend Demi Moore as one of the two global cover stars, symbolising how her artistry bridges continents and cultures. Speaking to Glamour UK, Tyla defined sisterhood in her own words: “Sisterhood is being able to relate to another woman, trust her with your secrets, and know that she understands.”
Her inclusion marks a powerful moment for African creatives — proof that the continent’s voices now shape the global narrative of beauty, art, and empowerment.
From the Township to the Top
Growing up in South Africa, Tyla’s passion for performance was nurtured in local dance circles and community shows. She often recounts mimicking music video choreography and experimenting with melodies long before fame found her.
Her 2025 project, “WWP (We Wanna Party)”, showcased her playful side and served as a prelude to her highly anticipated second studio album. The EP shattered streaming expectations and reaffirmed Tyla’s flair for merging African roots with universal appeal.
A Fashion Muse and Cultural Force
Beyond music, Tyla has become a global fashion and identity icon. Her style — a fusion of Y2K nostalgia and South African township vibrance — has earned her features in Vogue and high-profile brand endorsements.
Open about her background, Tyla proudly embraces her South African identity, describing herself as “coloured” in local terms — a reflection of the country’s diverse heritage. She uses her platform to discuss representation and self-definition, turning public scrutiny into self-expression through art.
Tracks like “Mr. Media” and “Is It” serve as musical responses to criticism — art born from authenticity and defiance.
A Symbol of Global South Excellence
Tyla’s recognition by Glamour isn’t just about fame — it’s about visibility, validation, and the evolution of global pop culture. Her rise underscores a cultural shift where African artists are no longer viewed as regional acts but as global innovators.
As Glamour aptly noted, Tyla embodies the “sound of the new world” — youthful, fearless, and unapologetically African.
From Johannesburg’s suburbs to Grammy stages and magazine covers, Tyla’s story is a celebration of artistry without borders. And as she continues her ascent, one thing is clear — her rhythm is rewriting history.
