Johannesburg got a taste of the orange side of life on 14 October, as global snack sensation Cheetos threw its highly anticipated Cheetos Playground event in honour of Cheetos launching in South Africa. The playful celebration brought the brand’s fun personality to life, combining music, entertainment, and interactive experiences.
Robot Boii and Kamo Mphela Performances
The Cheetos playground was hosted by award winning presenter, Tshego Koke. The night kicked off with electrifying performances from Robot Boii and Kamo Mphela, whose sets had the crowd dancing, singing, and fully embracing the spirit of Cheetos’ signature swagger. Among the electrifying performances was Ayanda MVP’s Dj set that had the dance floor shaking. The event also featured colourful installations,and playful activations that invited guests to fully immerse themselves in the world of Chester Cheetah and the brand’s cheeky, fun-loving energy.
Cheetos was very intentional about partnering with South African personalities that align with their fun and energetic brand. Cheetos brand manager speaks about the brands collaboration with local talent. “Robot Boii is a vibe, and he’s been a Cheetos fan for a very long time. When he joined the campaign, he was so excited.” said Cheetos Brand Manager, Thato Tloubatla.
The brand recently launched a dance challenge to amplify the Cheetos spirit, with Robot Boii playing a key role in bringing it to life. Cheetos has also partnered with several other influencers including, Chad Jones, Neevan Ferris, Ryan Smith and many more.
Robot Boii kicked off the Cheetos South Africa launch two months ago with the ‘Can’t Hide The Fun,’ launch where he featured his new single, ‘Tjovi’, together with his amazing dance moves.“When they came this side, they were looking for someone who has an understanding of both local and global and who’s fun like the brand. It’s an alignment of brands.” said South African personality, Robot Boii.
Cheetos unique flavours
The event follows months of buzz-building campaigns, including influencer partnerships and cheeky public stunts, designed to generate excitement ahead of the brand’s official rollout in South Africa. Guests had the opportunity to sample a variety of Cheetos flavours, Including Cheese and Barbecue, among others. The event offered a unique blend of fine dining and fun snacking.
“We brought this brand to alleviate pressure and help young people have fun.” says Thato Tloubatla, Cheetos Brand Manager. Cheetos has been well received in the country, despite only launching in the country about two months ago. Tloubatla also hinted that Flamin’ Hot Cheetos could be added to the flavour lineup in 2026.
Cheetos Playground guests
The Cheetos Playground brought together a vibrant mix of influencers, media, actors and media personalities who lit up the orange carpet with energy and style.
Lebohang Lephatsoana, actor on Younginz, shared his highlights from the launch. “Bringing out Kamo Mphela has to be a highlight. Robot Boii killed it. The vibes are on 100.”
“I would definitely recommend Cheetos to someone. As a brand they’re doing something really cool. It’s fun, it’s young, it’s fresh. So why not support a brand that is innovative.” added Ayakha Ntunja from Younginz.
With the Cheetos Playground, PepsiCo has successfully turned a snack launch into a full-blown lifestyle celebration, creating a memorable moment that has set the tone for Cheetos’ playful journey in South Africa.
