Feather Awards Reveal 2024 Nominees

The annual Feather Awards are back for their 16th edition, promising a night of glamour, controversy, and inspiration with a dazzling array of nominees.

Nominees were revealed at a star-studded brunch held at Constitution Hill in Johannesburg on Wednesday, attended by media, celebrities, and activists.

The event included the symbolic raising of the rainbow flag to mark the start of Pride Month, celebrated every October in several regions across South Africa and the continent.

This year’s theme, “Borderless Existence,” celebrates the rich diversity of the LGBTQIA+ community, embracing minority groups, including differently-abled individuals.

The Feather Awards XVI will take place on Thursday, 7 November 2024, at the trendy 1 Fox in Johannesburg. The ceremony promises an unforgettable night of recognition, celebration, and colourful unity. Hosts Dineo Langa, Khaya Dladla, and Andiswa Gebashe will lead the proceedings.

As always, the nominee list is filled with queer and allied stars, supportive media, inspiring activists, and community leaders who not only stand out but also actively contribute to the LGBTQIA+ community and other minority groups.

“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 celebrate the strength of every individual—regardless of ability, background, or identity—who contributes to the rich, diverse landscape of our society. Their stories inspire us to envision a world where inclusivity reigns supreme,” Kotlolo asserted.

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 at the 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 of the Year
Young Stunna!
Zoe Modiga
Tito; M Yuppe and Eeque!

Socialite of the Year (Seen at every opening of an envelope or an erection of a stop sign)
Icebolethu Funerals
Kgomotso Seboko
Gayton McKenzie

Drama Queen of the Year
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 & Vaivi Swartz
Orapeleng Modutle
Phiko’s Mom (Royal Bafokeng)

The prestigious Simon Nkoli Award will be presented to fashion icon Felipe Mazibuko, while the African Feather Award will go to queer HIV and social justice activist Zackie Achmat.