Panama City is buzzing with anticipation as the 22nd Annual Premios Juventud prepares to host its historic ceremony on September 25, 2025. Among the distinguished nominees, Colombian artist Kapo has garnered significant attention, securing four nominations that underscore his burgeoning influence and versatility within the global latin music scene. This recognition marks a pivotal moment in his career, firmly establishing him as a compelling rising star.
A Historic Move for Latin Music’s Premier Awards
For the first time in its 22-year history, the Premios Juventud awards ceremony will take place outside the United States, with Panama City, Panama, serving as the vibrant host. The event, themed “Evolucionando al Ritmo de la Música” (Evolving to the Rhythm of Music), promises to be a grand celebration of latin culture and music, strategically coinciding with Hispanic Heritage Month. This move reflects TelevisaUnivision’s dedication to honoring the rich traditions and dynamic communities across Latin America, positioning Panama as a vital creative hub.
The prestigious awards will be broadcast live from the Figali Convention Center in Fort Amador on Univision, UniMás, Galavisión, and streamed on ViX, ensuring a wide reach for this landmark event. The nominations, unveiled on August 19, 2025, have set the stage for an exciting competition, with industry giants like Bad Bunny and Danny Ocean leading with six nominations each, closely followed by Anitta, Beéle, CarÃn León, Emilia, Myke Towers, Netón Vega, and Peso Pluma, each receiving five nods.
Kapo’s Ascendance: A Testament to Versatility
Juan David Loaiza Sepúlveda, known professionally as Kapo, is a Colombian singer and songwriter whose unique blend of reggaeton and Afrobeat has quickly captivated audiences worldwide. Hailing from Cali, Colombia, Kapo’s journey in music began with a passion for traditional Colombian sounds, leading him to release his first international hits in 2024.
His breakout singles, “Ohnana” and “Uwaie,” achieved significant success, with “Ohnana” charting on Billboard’s Hot Latin Songs and Global 200, and gaining viral traction on TikTok. This rapid ascent culminated in the release of his first full-length album, “Por Si Alguien Nos Escucha,” in July 2025.
Kapo’s four nominations at Premios Juventud 2025 highlight his impressive range across diverse music genres:
* La Nueva Generación Masculina (New Generation – Male Artist): This significant nomination places Kapo among the most promising emerging talents in latin music, an initiative by Univision to spotlight artists poised for global impact.
* Tropical Hit: Recognized for his collaboration on the track “ImagÃnate” with Danny Ocean.
* Tropical Mix: His popular song “Ohnana,” featuring an all-star lineup including Maluma, Ryan Castro, Farruko, and Nicky Jam, secured a nomination in this vibrant category.
* Afrobeat Latino del Año (Afrobeat Latin Artist of the Year): A nod to his distinctive Afrobeat sound with the song “Uwaie,” reflecting the awards’ inclusion of new categories that embrace evolving music fusions.
A New Era of Recognition
The 2025 Premios Juventud introduces eight new categories, expanding its reach beyond traditional music and television to acknowledge the multifaceted interests of today’s youth. Categories like “Podcast of the Year” and “Afrobeat Latino of the Year” demonstrate the awards’ commitment to reflecting contemporary digital trends and cultural shifts.
Voting for the Premios Juventud is entirely fan-driven, with the public able to cast their votes on premiosjuventud.com until September 1, 2025. As the news spreads and anticipation builds, all eyes will be on Panama City for what promises to be an unforgettable night celebrating the vibrancy and influence of latin music and culture.
