Feather Awards XVI: Celebrating Inclusive With A Borderless Existence

The Feather Awards are back, and this year, we’re embracing the theme of ‘Borderless Existence‘. Yes there will be the usual glitz and glamour of course this season, but we are taking it up a notch as we celebrate the vibrant tapestry of the LGBTQIA+ community and extend our arms to include diverse minority groups, particularly differently-abled individuals, in our collective narrative.

Taking place on Thursday, the 7th of November 2024, the Feathers returns to the trendy 1 Fox in Johannesburg, with a ceremony that promises an unforgettable night of recognition, celebration, and colourful unity.

We are excited to unveil our dazzling nominees, each an embodiment of creativity, courage, and resilience in the face of societal challenges. As always the list includes dazzling stars, supportive media, inspiring activists and community leaders who have not only risen above the norm to stand out, but those who actively contribute to the LGBTIQ+ community and other minority groups in a positive way.

Thami Kotlolo, co-founder of the Feather Awards said:

“This year, we focus on inclusivity, reminding ourselves that our community thrives when all voices are heard and celebrated. We are committed to pushing boundaries and creating spaces where everyone can thrive. In honoring our nominees, we honor the strength of every individual—regardless of ability, background or identity —who has contributed to the rich, diverse landscape of our society.  The diverse talents and stories that our nominees bring forward inspire us all to envision a world where inclusivity reigns supreme.

The beloved Dineo Langa, Khaya Dladla and Andiswa Gebashe will lead the proceedings at the the Feather Awards XVI hosts this year.

And the Nominees for the Feather Awards XVI are:

Best Styled Individual

Maglera Dope Boi
Lunathi Mampofu
Nomalanga Shozi

Hunk of the Year

Makazole Mapimpi
Akani Simbine
Rulani Mokoena

Diva Extraordinaire of the Year

Nthati Moshesh
Naledi Pandor
Gayton McKenzie

Sports Personality of the Year

Kgothatso Monjane
The Springboks
Alyssa Conley

Role Model of the Year

SA Legal Team @ ICJ
Kgothatso Montjane
John Meletse

Cutest Couple

Justice and Fhatuwani Mukheli
Celeste and Fezile Ntuli
Blue and Brown Mbombo

Hot Chick of the Year

Lunathi Mampofu
Ntokozo Mhlongo
Tyla

Media Award of the Year 

Ha Molefi! (Mzansi Magic)
Youngins! (Showmax)
Netflix

Fag Hag of the Year 

Lindiwe Zulu
Brenda Mtambo
Nontokozo Madonsela

Designer of the Year 

Orapeleng Modutle
Thebe Magugu
Justice & Fhatuwani Mokheli

Musician

Young Stunna!
Zoe Modiga
Tito; M Yuppe and Eeque!

Socialite (Seen at every opening of an envelope or an erection of a stop sign)

Icebolethu Funerals
Kgomotso Seboko
Gayton McKenzie

Drama Queen

Penuell Mlotshwa
Nara Smith
Tshedi Mholo & Bongani Nchang

Social Media Personality of the Year  

Hope Ramafalo
Eva Mofokeng
Sipho Alphi Mkhwanazi

Best LGBTIQ+ Initiative: Private Sector 

#JustDetention initiative
Momentum Group
#ShePoppedInn

Best LGBTIQ+ Initiative: Public Sector 

Department of Justice & Const Dev
Higher Health
SADTU

Best LGBTIQ+ Youth Movement 

Olivenhoutbosch Secondary School
Sacred Heart College
Crawford College

Best Rainbow Parenting 

Sape Maodi & Valvi Swartz
Orapeleng Modutle
Phiko’s Mom (Royal Bafokeng)

The team are particularly thrilled to announce that the Simon Nkoli Award will be awarded to the remarkable fashion icon Felipe Mazibuko, whose work has profoundly impacted both the LGBTQIA+ community and broader societal structures with the fashion world. Felipe’s dedication to advocacy and inclusion exemplifies the spirit of the Feather Awards and our commitment to a borderless existence.

The African Feather Awards goes to global activist Zakie Achmit.

This year’s event is made possible through a partnership with the Thami Dish Foundation, whose ongoing support enables us to continue our vital work in educating and sensitising our communities.

Join us for a night filled with glitz, glamour, and the radiant colors of our community. Stay tuned for updates and prepare to celebrate the extraordinary individuals who are making a difference!

Follow us on social media for the latest updates and the grand reveal of the winners at the Feather Awards XVI:
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