Lifestyle

Unveiling Durban's most inspiring social media influencers of 2025 - prepare to be amazed

Alyssia Birjalal|Published

Uthika Naidu is one of Durban's coolest food content creators who believes in "storytelling through food".

Image: Instagram.

Durban, known for its rich culture and diversity, is home to an emerging group of social media stars elevating the narrative of positivity in 2025.

From culinary storytellers to empowered women, these influencers share their journeys and passions, captivating audiences with authenticity and vibrancy.

Here are our Top 4

Uthika Naidu

Also known online as @braisedbyuthika, Uthika Naidu is one of Durban's coolest food content creators who believes in "storytelling through food".

Instead of just sharing recipes, she tells stories about her Indian culture and family traditions through tasty dishes.

Naidu's videos are special because they aren't rushed. She takes her time explaining why certain meals, like a yummy curry, are cooked for special occasions. Many of her recipes have been passed down through generations, making every dish a piece of history.

She started her journey by talking about motherhood, but switched to food when the Covid-19 pandemic began. This change helped her connect with others while sharing comforting snacks. Plus, she has gone viral for showing things like the unique Indian postpartum bathing ritual, which many women recognised and loved!

Naidu shares awesome traditional recipes like crab curry and breyani while filming in her family home, encouraging everyone to enjoy cooking together.

So, if you love food, stories and celebrating culture, @braisedbyuthika is someone you definitely want to follow. 

Riya Singh

One of Durban’s most admired public figures, she is known for being crowned Mrs Durban 2025. But Singh is not just a beauty queen; she is a talented choreographer and the owner of Riya's Dance and Model Academy.

Through her academy, Singh teaches dance to hundreds of children and teenagers, helping them shine on stage and grow in confidence.

What makes her truly special is her commitment to giving back. As the director of the Courageous South Africa Pageant, she empowers women, and she actively participates in community service and temple activities focused on youth and wellness.

Singh is relatable and down-to-earth, making her a role model for many. Her journey from being a dance teacher to winning the Mrs Durban title has captured the hearts of her followers.

If you're looking for inspiration, follow Singh on social media. She shares amazing dance videos, student performances and updates about her community work that remind us all of the importance of kindness and creativity.

Keeran Nadas

Known widely as the "Fit Foodie", Nadas has captivated netizens with his unique blend of fitness and food.

As a personal trainer, he not only focuses on staying fit but also indulges in his love for cooking and trying out delicious meals. He believes you can eat tasty food like burgers and still maintain a healthy lifestyle. 

What makes Nadas even more remarkable is his journey. After losing his mother at just 20, he learned to cook to care for his family. This experience helped him master Indian cuisine and made him a relatable figure to his followers.

Through his engaging TikTok and Instagram posts, he shares easy recipes, reviews Durban's best eateries and promotes local culture.

His followers appreciate his down-to-earth style, making him feel like a friend rather than a distant influencer.

If you're looking for tasty recipes, workout tips and a sprinkle of personal stories, Nadas is the social media star you definitely want to follow. 

Social media influencer Selina Naidoo is the authentic voice of young South African families navigating modern life.

Image: Instagram.

Selina Naidoo

A well-known content creator, podcaster and digital entrepreneur, Selina Naidoo is based in Durban.

What sets Naidoo apart is her relatable approach to life as a modern Indian woman, wife and mother. While many influencers showcase glamorous lifestyles, Naidoo focuses on the realities of everyday life, making her followers feel connected and understood.

Her community, affectionately called the #SelaBellas, loves her for being real and honest about challenges in parenting and marriage.

Naidoo runs a podcast called "Who's Your Amma?", where she chats with other women about the ups and downs of motherhood.

She also sells the SelaBella Planner, a fun tool to help women balance their busy lives while keeping faith at the forefront. Lastly, her YouTube channel features vlogs that document her adventures, including home renovations and family outings.

You should follow Naidoo to enjoy funny, real stories and empower themselves to navigate life’s challenges with faith, laughter and friendship.