Feather Awards XVI: A Dazzling Celebration of Inclusivity and Breaking Boundaries
The Feather Awards are back in full swing, and this year’s event promises to be more spectacular than ever with its bold theme of ‘Borderless Existence.’ While the familiar glitz and glamour of the awards show are a given, the 16th edition takes inclusivity to a whole new level by spotlighting not just the LGBTQIA+ community, but also shining a light on diverse minority groups—especially differently-abled individuals—within our shared narrative.
Marking this monumental occasion, the Feather Awards kicked off with a media soirée at the iconic Constitutional Hill in Braamfontein, Johannesburg. The intimate gathering featured the hoisting of the LGBTQIA+ flag, a powerful tribute to South Africa’s Pride Month, which takes place in October. The flag-raising symbolised a vibrant celebration of identity and resilience, setting the tone for an unforgettable season.
Nominees for Hot Chick of the Year | SUPPLIED
And who better to guide us through the upcoming festivities than entertainment heavyweights, Dineo Langa and Khaya Dladla? These dynamic personalities were announced as hosts for the main event, scheduled for Thursday, 7th November 2024, at the trendy 1 Fox in Johannesburg. Expect an extraordinary evening of recognition, celebration, and unity as the Feathers promises to deliver a dazzling showcase of courage and creativity.
“Pride Month to me is about identity, freedom, safety, health, and success,” says co-host Khaya Dladla. “It’s a celebration of who you are, no matter your gender identity pronouns. It’s about finding comfort in your own skin.”
With these words, Dladla captured the very essence of this year’s theme, a reminder that the Feather Awards are not just about honouring stars but also about empowering every individual who dares to stand tall in their truth.
Nominees for Hunk of the Year | SUPPLIED
The excitement continued as the Feather Awards unveiled their list of nominees—a stellar lineup of fearless creatives, media powerhouses, trailblazing activists, and inspiring community leaders. These are individuals who not only rise above the norm but actively push forward the progress of the LGBTQIA+ community and other minority groups. Their contributions embody resilience, courage, and the drive to create lasting change.
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)
“This year, our focus is on inclusivity,” said Feather Awards co-founder Thami Kotlolo. “Our community thrives when all voices are heard and celebrated. We are committed to pushing boundaries and creating spaces where everyone, regardless of ability, background, or identity, can succeed.”
Among the many highlights of this year’s ceremony will be the presentation of the prestigious Simon Nkoli Award to fashion icon Felipe Mazibuko, a trailblazer whose work has revolutionised both the LGBTQIA+ community and the global fashion industry. Felipe’s fearless advocacy and commitment to inclusivity reflect the very spirit of the Feather Awards—a celebration of boundless existence.
Nominees for Best Styled Individual | SUPPLIED
Another highlight is the African Feather Award, which will be awarded to globally renowned activist Zakie Achmat for their unwavering dedication to justice and equality.
This unforgettable evening wouldn’t be possible without the unwavering support of the Thami Dish Foundation, whose partnership enables the Feather Awards to continue their vital work of educating and sensitising communities around inclusivity and acceptance.
Prepare to be captivated by a night of sheer brilliance, where the spotlight will shine brightly on those who have made extraordinary contributions to a more inclusive world. Stay tuned for updates, and get ready to celebrate the remarkable individuals leading us all toward a future where everyone belongs.