Nigerian music sensation Ayra Starr made history on Monday night at the 2025 BET Awards, securing the prestigious Best International Act trophy and solidifying her position as one of Africa’s brightest global stars.
The 21-year-old singer’s win marks a defining milestone — her first-ever BET Award — and a significant moment in her meteoric rise on the global music stage.
Ayra Starr triumphed over a highly competitive field of nominees, including fellow Nigerian star Rema, South African breakout Tyla, Swaziland’s viral sensation Uncle Waffles, and Ghana’s acclaimed rapper Black Sherif. Other contenders in the category included Any Gabrielly (Brazil), Basky (UK), Ezra Collective (UK), Joé Dwèt Filé (France), MC Luanna (Brazil), and SDM (France).
Known for her bold Afro-pop sound and signature vocals, the Mavin Records artiste has become a leading voice among a new wave of African talents pushing the continent’s music to international heights.
While Ayra Starr celebrated a career-defining victory, the evening also belonged to Kendrick Lamar, who dominated the night with five awards out of a leading 10 nominations. Lamar took home Album of the Year for GNX, along with wins for Best Male Hip Hop Artist, Best Collaboration (for “Luther” with SZA), Video of the Year (“Not Like Us”), and Video Director of the Year, shared with longtime collaborator Dave Free.
The 2025 BET Awards once again celebrated Black excellence in music, film, and culture, with standout performances and emotional tributes punctuating a night of landmark achievements.
