Nairobi, Kenya – September 22, 2025 – A barber and gospel singer from Donholm has etched his name in Kenya’s entertainment history after winning the inaugural Next Superstar Kenya competition. Jose Jay, whose real name is Joseph Japheth, was crowned champion on Sunday night at Charter Hall, City Hall, Nairobi, scooping the grand prize of KSh 1 million.
The 28-year-old’s victory capped a 14-week talent search that began in May, attracting thousands of hopefuls from across the country. From 18 contestants who entered the academy, weekly eliminations whittled the number down to six finalists, who battled it out before a live audience and millions watching on Rembo TV, Rembo Plus, and the StarTimes ON app.
Jay’s stirring vocals, commanding stage presence, and heartfelt performance won over both the audience and the judging panel—hip hop star King Kaka, gospel artist Size 8, and producer Motif Di Don.
“This is more than a dream come true,” a jubilant Jay said after his win. “I’ve entered many competitions before, but I never made it to the top. This time, I told myself to try again, and God has shown me that prayers are answered. Music is my life, and I’ll keep doing it for as long as I live.”
The finale was not just a night for Jay. Runner-up Rennic (Rennick Nzalwa) received a brand-new motorbike, while second runner-up Jambia (Brian Koome) took home bespoke jewellery valued at KSh 150,000. Other finalists included Brenda Morii (Nyamori Brendah), Albert Okumu, and Andy Saharan.
A Platform for Creative Growth
The competition also shone a spotlight on Kenya’s creative economy. Collins Okoth, Director of Strategy and Planning at the Kenya Film Commission and chief guest at the finale, praised the platform as a driver of youth empowerment.
“The government recognises the creative economy as a key sector for growth and employment,” Okoth said. “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 Kenya CEO Jimmy Carter Luoh confirmed the show’s long-term future, announcing that Next Superstar Kenya will run annually for the next decade.
“This show proves the depth of talent in the country,” Luoh said. “StarTimes has grown with Kenya for over 15 years, and it is our responsibility to invest in local content. 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.”
A Night of Celebration
Hosted by media personality Amina Rabar and comedian Eddie Butita, the finale featured electrifying performances by the finalists and guest acts, and was attended by a glittering line-up of Kenyan celebrities.
As the curtain fell on its maiden season, Next Superstar Kenya left audiences with a powerful message—that the country’s next big stars can come from anywhere, even a barbershop in Donholm.
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