TopCheri flies Namibia’s flag at continental awards

Namibian singer and entrepreneur Monica Pineas, aka TopCheri, has been nominated for the Shining Stars Africa Awards 2026, a continental platform recognising African talent in music, entertainment and business.

The nomination, announced ahead of the 2026 ceremony, makes her the only Namibian artist selected in the Best Star Artist Southern Africa 2025/26 category, putting both her brand and Namibia’s music industry on a broader African stage.

During a telephone interview with tjil, the artist described the moment as deeply emotional.

"Being the only Namibian nominated at the Shining Stars Africa Awards is not just an achievement, it’s a responsibility," TopCheri said.

"Personally, it’s emotional. It tells me that the sacrifices, the sleepless nights and the risks were all worth it."

TopCheri said the nomination has expanded her professional reach beyond local borders.

“It positions me as a continental contender. It says TopCheri is not just local, she’s African. And that changes everything.”

The star added that she was overwhelmed when she first received the news.

“I literally froze for a few seconds because I couldn’t believe it. Then I just felt overwhelming gratitude. I thought about Namibia. I thought about my team. It was one of those 'God did it' moments."

Regional voice

TopCheri believes the nomination reflects the growth of the Namibian music industry.

“It says we are ready. Namibia is no longer up next, we are now. The industry is growing, the visuals are improving, the sound is evolving, and artists are thinking bigger. This nomination proves that our work can compete on a continental level".

She credited her album 'I Am Monika' as a major factor in the recognition, describing the project as personal, bold and intentional.

“It showed growth not just musically, but visually and strategically. We stopped thinking of local releases and started thinking of African impact,” she explained.

Bigger stage

Tjil also spoke to TopCheri’s manager, Mepani M, who highlighted the wider impact of the nomination.

"This nomination moves TopCheri from national recognition to continental credibility. Awards platforms like the Shining Stars Africa Awards create industry validation. This changes booking conversations. It changes negotiation power. It changes perception,” she said.

Mepani added that the team focused on strong branding, high-quality visuals and strategic collaborations to position TopCheri beyond Namibia.

“Recognition at this level attracts attention from promoters, brands and artists across the continent. This isn’t just a nomination, it’s an entry point into a larger African ecosystem,” she said.

TopCheri also shared a message for young artists, urging them not to limit themselves.

“Don’t shrink your dreams to fit your location. Invest in your craft. Protect your brand. Be consistent. Namibia is not small. Our mindset sometimes is. Think bigger,” she said.