5FM’s Nick Hamman named 2026 Forty Under 40 South Africa winner

5FM breakfast host and Hammy Eats co-founder Nick Hamman has been named a 2026 Forty Under 40 South Africa winner in the Media (Digital and Social) category.

Hamman received the national accolade at the awards ceremony on Saturday, 3 October, recognising work that stretches from national radio to a digital food platform attracting around 30 million video views a month.

As host of 5 Breakfast, 5FM’s flagship breakfast show, Hamman has built his presence across both radio and digital platforms while focusing on South African stories, culture and youth engagement.

A decade of the 5 Breakfast Heritage Tour

This year also marked the 10th anniversary of Hamman’s annual 5 Breakfast Heritage Tour.

The tour once again took listeners around the country, highlighting South African stories, communities, culture and food.

Hamman has also spearheaded initiatives including the viral 5FM War Cry Challenge, which brought thousands of young South Africans together through school spirit, creativity and national pride.

Through 5 Breakfast, he combines music, breaking news, entertainment, storytelling and youth engagement.

Hammy Eats reaches 30 million video views a month

Hamman’s digital influence extends beyond 5FM through Hammy Eats, the food platform he co-founded with JD Mostert.

The platform averages around 30 million video views each month and focuses on independent South African food businesses.

Hammy Eats has helped connect these businesses with new audiences and, according to the information supplied, generated millions of rand in business for small and emerging food entrepreneurs around the country.

Hamman says the impact of the work is what matters most to him.

“I’m incredibly grateful to be named a 40 Under 40 South Africa winner in Media (Digital and Social). I’m proud to do this work both on 5FM and through Hammy Eats, where we tell the stories of South African food businesses and help more people discover them. The impact we’ve been able to make is what means the most to me. Thank you to JD Mostert, our team, the businesses who trust us with their stories, and everyone who watches and supports the work.”

‘An on-air and social media powerhouse’

Masi Mdingane, Business Manager for 5FM and Good Hope FM, praised Hamman’s ability to use his different platforms to celebrate South Africa.

“Nick is an on-air and social media powerhouse with a massive heart for South Africa. He celebrates Mzansi, its people and its food with infectious passion, and uses his platforms to change people’s lives for the better. We are incredibly proud of this well-deserved recognition.”

Hamman can be heard on 5 Breakfast on weekdays from 6am to 9am on 5FM, while his work also continues through Hammy Eats and social media.

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