NAIROBI, Kenya – Monday, September 22, 2025 – Jose Jay, a 28-year-old barber and gospel singer from Donholm, Nairobi, was crowned the winner of the inaugural Next Superstar Kenya competition at a live finale held at Charter Hall, City Hall, Nairobi on Sunday, 21st September from 7.30pm. He walked away with the grand prize of KSh 1 million.
The finale capped a 14-week journey that began in May 2025 with thousands of hopefuls auditioning across the country. From 18 contestants who entered the academy, weekly eliminations saw them perform in front of the judges, with the lowest-ranked sent home each week. After weeks of intense competition, six contestants emerged as finalists and went on to perform at the live grand finale before a packed audience and millions watching on Rembo TV, Rembo Plus, and the StarTimes ON app.
Jose Jay (Joseph Japheth) emerged victorious over finalists Brenda Morii (Nyamori Brendah), Albert Okumu, Andy Saharan, Jambia (Brian Koome), and Rennic (Rennick Nzalwa). His stage presence, vocal strength, and heartfelt performance impressed the judges—King Kaka, Size 8, and Motif Di Don and was a fan’s favourite. Rennic finished as 1st runner-up, winning a brand-new motorbike, while Jambia took 2nd runner-up and received rare jewellery worth KSh 150,000.
Speaking after his win, a jubilant Jose Jay said his victory was a result of persistence:
“I’ve been in many competitions before, but I never made it to number one. This time, I told myself to try once more, and I’m grateful to God because He has shown me prayers are answered. This platform has given me exposure, and I hope it continues so more young people can showcase their talent. Music is my life, and I’ll keep doing it for as long as I live.”
Collins Okoth, Director of Strategy and Planning at the Kenya Film Commission and Chief Guest at the finale, praised the competition as an example of how the creative industry empowers youth:
“The government recognises the creative economy as a key sector for growth and employment. Over 70% of our creative industry actors are young people. That’s why we are investing in policies, infrastructure, and partnerships to make the arts a serious economic driver. Collaborations like this with StarTimes help us nurture and mentor talent so that young people can view creativity not just as entertainment, but as a business and career.”
StarTimes CEO, Jimmy Carter Luoh, reaffirmed the company’s commitment to growing Kenya’s creative sector and announced that Next Superstar Kenya will become an annual event:
“StarTimes has grown with Kenya for over 15 years, and we see it as our responsibility to invest in local content. That is why we launched Next Superstar Kenya. This show proves the depth of talent in the country. I am pleased to confirm that there will be another season next year, and we are committing to run this show annually for the next 10 years as part of our mission to support local talent and build the creative economy.”
The finale, hosted by Amina Rabar and Eddie Butita, featured electrifying performances from the finalists and guest acts, celebrating the diversity and strength of Kenya’s creative economy. The event was attended by an array of Kenyan celebrities.
About StarTimes Kenya
StarTimes is the leading digital TV operator in Africa, serving millions of subscribers with a mission to ensure every African family can access, afford, and enjoy digital TV. Next Superstar Kenya is part of StarTimes’ wider commitment to promoting local talent, enriching Kenya’s entertainment landscape, and contributing to the growth of the creative economy.
Media Contact
Phyllis Nyambura
Media Relations, StarTimes Kenya
Phone: 0700 396 433
Email: phyllisnyamburawork@gmail.com
