Kim Jayde Robinson | South Africa | Unafraid To Stand Out

Multi-Award Winning Media Personality | Entrepreneur

Forbes Africa 30 Under 30

Former MTV Base & MTV Africa TV Presenter Founder of KJ Productions (PTY) LTD: Creative Agency

Kim Jayde Robinson’s story isn’t just one of success—it’s a thrilling ride of bold moves, unstoppable ambition, and a deep-rooted desire to tell Africa’s stories on her own terms. Born in Harare, Zimbabwe, and raised in Bulawayo, Kim grew up as one of six children in a vibrant household where dreams were nurtured and voices were encouraged. After completing high school in 2008, she packed her bags and left Zimbabwe behind, headed for South Africa with a heart full of ambition and a head full of big ideas. She enrolled at Stellenbosch University and graduated with an Honours Degree in Social Work in 2012—proving from the start that her mission in life was bigger than herself. She wasn’t just chasing fame; she was driven by purpose. But something bigger was calling, and Kim answered without hesitation. With the charisma of a born storyteller and the camera-ready energy of a star, she burst onto the entertainment scene and became one of the most recognizable faces on African television. As a host on MTV Base and MTV Africa from 2017 to 2020, Kim didn't just present shows—she owned them. Her voice, her presence, and her unapologetically African identity captivated audiences across the continent. Whether she was covering the red carpet, interviewing global stars, or championing African talent, Kim made it clear—she wasn’t just a presenter; she was a movement. Her sneaker journey? It kicked off with a bang—a gift of the Rihanna FENTY X Puma collab during her MTV days. That moment was more than just a fashion win—it sparked an obsession. When she later picked up her first pair of classic Nike Air Force Ones, it was like stepping into her own power. From then on, sneakers weren’t just shoes. They became her armor, her identity, her way of expressing strength, independence, and individuality. Her current collection is legendary, with pieces like the Off-White x Jordan 4 Sails, Travis Scott x Jordan 1 Canary Yellow, and Nao Serati x Reebok Classic Leather taking center stage in a closet that tells the story of her evolution as both a creator and a woman unafraid to stand out.

But Kim Jayde didn’t stop at being in front of the camera—she built her own stage. In 2019, she founded KJ Productions, a bold, independent creative agency focused on original content told by young African creatives. From documentaries to branded content, music specials to fashion-forward storytelling, KJ Productions is more than a company—it’s a revolution in how African stories are captured and shared with the world. Her mantra is clear: stories about Africa, by Africans. And she’s not just talking—she’s doing it, every day, with a team that’s young, fearless, and ready to reshape the narrative.

Her passion for storytelling and media saw her lead marketing departments in some of South Africa’s most exciting brands. At Sneaker District South Africa, she was more than just the head of marketing—she was a culture shaper. From 2022 to 2023, she helped elevate the brand’s visibility, infusing street style with authenticity and energy. Then, at Steyn Entertainment, she steered the marketing and PR ship for massive projects like the In The City Festival, headlined by international artists like Mereba and Jordan Ward. Every campaign, every press release, every piece of content was soaked in Kim’s signature style: authentic, bold, and unapologetically African.

And when reality TV came calling again, Kim jumped right back in. In 2023, she returned to the screen as the host of The Lucky Star CoLab, a high-stakes, high-energy competition showcasing South Africa’s best and brightest creatives. With judges like DJ Zinhle, Slikour, Yasmin Furmie, and Austin Malema by her side, Kim brought fire to the stage every Thursday night, proving that her connection with audiences is still electric.

Awards? She’s got them in spades. From gracing the prestigious Forbes Africa 30 Under 30 list in 2019 to winning titles like Fashion Influencer of the Year at the 2023 FIASA Awards and Style Innovator of the Year at the SA Style Awards, Kim has been recognized again and again for her influence in fashion, media, and youth culture. She’s been named one of the 100 Most Influential Young Africans and scooped major honors at the Zimbabwe Achievers Awards and Zimbabwe International Women Awards. These accolades aren’t just shiny trophies—they’re reminders of the impact one young woman can have when she stays true to her vision.

What makes Kim’s journey even more powerful is her heart for service. For over five years, she’s been a fierce advocate and fundraiser for the Berea Home of Hope for Girls—a safe haven for survivors of abuse, trafficking, and trauma. She doesn't just write cheques—she connects the home with donors, campaigns for their cause, and even created a special edition tee in partnership with Grade Africa, with all proceeds supporting the shelter. Kim's commitment to uplifting young women is personal, deep, and unshakable.

Through it all, Kim Jayde remains grounded in her identity as a Zimbabwean-born African woman determined to shatter stereotypes and elevate voices that need to be heard. Her show Kickin' It With Kim Jayde, launched during the chaos of the COVID-19 pandemic, started as a self-funded passion project and grew into one of the most respected platforms for sneaker culture on the continent. She’s created a space where South African designers like Rich Mnisi, Nao Serati, and Thebe Magugu are celebrated alongside global giants like Adidas and Reebok. Her show isn’t just about sneakers—it’s about culture, community, and confidence.

Kim Jayde is more than a media personality. She’s an entrepreneur, a cultural curator, a fashion icon, and a fierce advocate for the next generation of African storytellers. Her journey reminds young people everywhere that success doesn’t come from following the rules—it comes from rewriting them. She shows us that it’s okay to dream big, start small, and never forget who you are or where you come from.

To the young dreamer reading this: let Kim Jayde’s story be the spark you need. Because if she can do it—boldly, brilliantly, and authentically—so can you.

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