ViacomCBS Networks International (VCNI) today announced that Monde Twala, Senior Vice President of ViacomCBS Networks Africa, Editorial and General Manager, has also been appointed Peer Lead for BET International.
Twala will work closely with Kerry Taylor, Executive Vice President of VCNI’s Entertainment & Youth brands, and the larger international division to guide editorial direction and identify opportunities to strengthen and grow the BET brand outside the United States. Twala will focus on driving brand resonance across key markets, while prioritizing the company’s ongoing digital transformation.
“As head of BET’s largest international market, Monde has an incredible track record of driving development and growth for all of our ViacomCBS brands across the African continent,” said Kerry Taylor. “He is a passionate champion of the brand, and I have no doubt that he will drive it forward in a strong, impactful way while ensuring BET International elevates Black culture globally.”
Twala stated: “BET is the unifying platform for all-things Black culture. I’m excited to collaborate with Kerry and the international team to unite, empower and elevate Black culture and excellence around the world, spotlighting the diverse voices, stories, music and news that need to be seen and heard.”
During his tenure at ViacomCBS, Twala has played a key role in the creation of ViacomCBS Africa’s major music events, including the historic Africa Day Benefit Concert at Home, the first virtual benefit event to support children and families in Africa impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic, and the iconic MTV Africa Music Awards. Additionally, Twala has worked alongside local production teams to create a diverse range of breakthrough programming including MTV Newsish, BET Breaks, scripted biopics and reality formats, and has overseen BET’s continued celebration of Black excellence in Africa with the introduction of several successful local productions.
BET International’s ratings are up +60% for the second quarter to date, and up over +40% for the year to date, driven by BET’s performance in South Africa. Across Digital, BET International’s video views for the year to date have grown nearly 700% year-over-year.
