by Dzudzie Faith Netshisaulu
essence cosmetics has announced Pabi Cooper, the multi-talented South African musician and dancer, as its newest Brand Ambassador for two of their biggest campaigns.
Pabi Cooper, also known as Paballo Mothapo, is a South African Amapiano singer, dancer, and performer who hails from Soshanguve, Pretoria. Pabi has emerged as one of the most prominent voices in the Amapiano genre, while also being the first South
African female Amapiano artist to be nominated for the BET Awards and first female youngest artist to host at SunBet Arena.
She is the ambassador for the essence extreme shine volume lipgloss & JUICY BOMB shiny lipgloss!

Pabi’s journey from internet dancer to platinum-selling artist and influential performer aligns perfectly with essence’s commitment to empowering individuals to embrace their unique beauty with confidence.
Her rise to fame, fuelled by her dynamic talent and captivating stage presence, has garnered her a massive following. With over 5.8 million combined followers across social media platforms, Pabi is not just an artist but a true influencer, establishing herself as one of the most exciting emerging brands in South Africa today.

She rose to fame with her hit single Isphithiphithi in 2021 and has since won multiple awards, including Song of the Year at the Basadi in Music Awards, Trace Africa Music Awards Nominee and SA Dance Music Awards Nominee.

In a statement released on Wednesday, Cooper said, “I’m so excited to join the essence Africa family as the face of the essence extreme shine volume lipgloss and JUICY BOMB shiny lipgloss! These products are all about confidence, glow, and turning heads. It’s a perfect match – and I can’t wait to see everyone step out, shine brighter, and own their power! This collab is more than beauty – it’s about bold energy and celebrating your true self.”
essence’s flagship products, the JUICY BOMB shiny lipgloss and extreme shine volume lipgloss, Pabi’s personal favourites, will take centre stage in this exciting new partnership. To add to this excitement, the loved and popular essence extreme shine volume lipgloss has just undergone its first ever price drop, now available for only R39.95, down from R57.95 – making high shine lips more accessible than ever!
“We are absolutely delighted to welcome Pabi to the essence family,” said Suzanne Schlechter, Head of Marketing for essence.
“Her journey from dancer to platinum artist, paired with her powerful influence as a performer and social media icon, embodies everything essence represents. Pabi’s energy and authenticity will undoubtedly inspire our community to shine brighter and express themselves with confidence whilst making beauty fun.”
Essence products are available nationwide.


