All nominees for the 2024 Feather Awards

Taking on the theme of “Existence Without Borders,” the Feather Awards are back and raising the bar, celebrating the vibrant tapestry of the LGBTQIA+ community and broadening our arms to include diverse minority groups, particularly those with diverse narrative opportunities, in our collective.

Taking place on November 7, 2024, Feathers returns to Johannesburg’s trendy 1 Fox with a ceremony that promises an unforgettable night of appreciation, celebration and colorful unity.

As always, the list features dazzling stars, media supporters, inspiring activists and community leaders who have not only risen above the norm to stand out, but also those who are actively contributing to the LGBTIQ+ community and other minority groups in a positive way.

“This year we are focusing on inclusion, 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 develop,” said Thami Kotlolo, co-founder of Feather Awards.

“By honoring our nominees, we honor the strength of each person – regardless of ability, background or identity – who has contributed to the rich and diverse landscape of our society. The diverse talents and stories presented by our nominees inspire us all to imagine a world where inclusivity reigns supreme.

Beloved Dineo Langa, Khaya Dladla and Andiswa Gebashe will host the 16th Feather Awards this year.

The nominees for the 16th Feather Awards are:

Best Individual Styling

• Magler’s Dope Boi
• Lunathi Mampofu
• Nomalanga Shozi

Handsome guy of the year

• Makazol Mapimpi
• Akani Simbine
• Rulani Mokoena

Extraordinary Diva of the Year

• Nthati Moshesh
• Naledi Pandor
• Gayton McKenzie

Sports Personality of the Year

• Kgothatso Monjane
• Springboks
• Alyssa Conley

Role model of the year

• SA @ ICJ Legal Team
• Kgothatso Montjane
• John Meletse

The sweetest 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! (Magic of Mzansi)
• Young people! (Showmax)
• Netflix

Cool Witch of the Year

• Lindiwe Zulu
•Brenda Mtambo
• Nontokozo Madonsela

Designer of the Year

• Orapeleng module
• Tebe Magugu
• Justice and Fhatuwani Mokheli

Musician

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

Companion (Visible every time you open an envelope or put up a stop sign)

• Funerals in Iceboleth
• Kgomotso Seboko
• Gayton McKenzie

Queen of Drama

• Penuell Mlotshwa
• Nara Smith
• Tshedi Mholo and Bongani Nchang

Social Media Personality of the Year

• Hope Ramafalo
• Ewa Mofokeng
• Sipho Alphi Mkhwanazi

Best LGBTIQ+ initiative: private sector

• #JustDetention initiative
• Moment Group
• #ShePoppedInn

Best LGBTIQ+ initiative: public sector

• Department of Justice and Const Dev
• Higher health
• SADTU

The best LGBTIQ+ youth movement

• Olivenhoutbosch Secondary School
• Sacred Heart School
• Crawford School

The best rainbow parenting

• Sape Maodi and Valvi Swartz
• Orapeleng module
• Mama Phiko (Royal Bafokeng)

The team is particularly excited to announce that the Simon Nkola Award will be awarded to fashion icon Felipe Mazibuko, whose work has had a profound impact on both the LGBTQIA+ community and broader social structures in the world of fashion. Mazibuko’s commitment to advocacy and inclusion exemplifies the spirit of the Feather Awards and our commitment to living without borders.

The African Feather Awards goes to global activist Zaki Achmit.

This year’s event was made possible thanks to our partnership with the Thami Dish Foundation, whose ongoing support enables us to continue our vital work to educate and sensitize our communities.