The theme of Borderless Existence will take over the 16th Feather Awards this year as the annual glitz and glamourous event will celebrate the vibrant tapestry of the LGBTQIA+ community and extend arms to include diverse minority groups, particularly differently-abled individuals, in their collective narrative.
Taking place on Thursday, 7 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.
The nominees for this year each represent an embodiment of creativity, courage, and resilience in the face of societal challenges.
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.
“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,” said Thami Kotlolo, co-founder of the Feather Awards. “In honouring our nominees, we honour 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.”
Media personalities Dineo Langa, Khaya Dladla and Andiswa Gebashe will lead the proceedings as the Feather Awards XVI hosts.
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
• 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 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 Award goes to global activist Zackie Achmat.
This year’s event is made possible through a partnership with the Thami Dish Foundation, whose ongoing support enables the vital work in educating and sensitising communities.
