In a momentous celebration of musical excellence, Zimbabwe-born singer Blessing Annatoria Chitapa, known professionally as Annatoria, has been honored with the Best Gospel Act award at the 2025 MOBO Awards. The prestigious event took place on February 18, 2025, at Newcastle’s Utilita Arena, recognizing outstanding achievements in music of Black origin.

Annatoria’s journey to this accolade is a testament to her unwavering dedication and remarkable talent. Born on March 20, 2002, in Harare, Zimbabwe, she relocated to Dudley, West Midlands, at the age of seven. Immersed in a family deeply rooted in faith—both her parents serve as pastors—Annatoria’s musical foundation was established within the church, drawing inspiration from gospel luminaries such as Tasha Cobbs, Donnie McClurkin, and Kierra Sheard.

Her rise to prominence began with her victory on the ninth series of The Voice UK in 2020, where she captivated audiences with her soulful performances under the mentorship of Olly Murs. Following her win, Annatoria released her debut album, Count My Blessings, in 2021, featuring the lead single “I Smile,” an uplifting rendition of Kirk Franklin’s original. Her music seamlessly blends elements of R&B, Afrobeats, pop, and gospel, creating a unique sound that resonates with a diverse audience.

Expressing her gratitude for the MOBO recognition, Annatoria shared on her Instagram: “She’s a MOBO WINNER 🙌🏾 Thank you so so much @moboawards and @premiergospel. And thank you to you all for supporting me on this journey! The last year has been a blessing, and I’m glad we’re doing life together!”

The MOBO Awards (Music of Black Origin) annually honor exceptional contributions to genres including hip-hop, grime, R&B, soul, reggae, jazz, gospel, and African music. Annatoria’s win not only highlights her personal achievements but also underscores the growing influence of gospel music within the broader music industry.

As Annatoria continues to inspire with her faith-driven artistry, fans eagerly anticipate her future projects, confident that her unique voice will keep resonating across the globe.