They were the first award ceremony to celebrate the LGBTQI+ community. Their work has gone far beyond just awarding people for their contribution to the LGBTQI+ space. They have been involved in community development projects across the county; running workshops, making donations and hosting concerts for the worthy cause. Rumours have recently resurfaced that the awards organisers are struggling to make ends meet and secure sponsorship. The co-founder of the Feather Awards, Thami Kotlolo admits that running the awards, especially after COVID-19 effects has been tough, but they are far from cancelling the awards.

HERE TO STAY

Thami tells ZiMoja that, �"I would be lying if I say that the events space has been easy. A lot of businesses suffered after the pandemic, so have we. But we have maintained solid relationships with our sponsors. This year, we are celebrating 15 years and it’s our last year at the Market Theatre.” Thami adds that securing sponsorships for queer events is not a walk in the park. �"It’s tough. Nobody offers partnership or has money set aside for queer events,” he says. In celebration of pride month in July, Thami hosted the Pride Without Prejudice Concert with the Mzansi Gay Choir, along with Buhle Bendalo, Langa Mavuso, Tamara Dey, Morena The Squire, Lady Du, Muneyi and Busiswa at the Joburg Theatre. "We do a lot of community development projects and workshops. This year we wanted to switch things up a bit and hosted a show instead. We wanted to do things differently, but we are absolutely not going anywhere. We are here to stay."

SELLING HIS HOME 

Not long ago, Thami shared that he once sold his home to make sure the awards happen. �"I was not going to give up on my dream. I knew that I would be able to buy another house again. So, I did what I felt was important. I sold my house to fund the awards,” he says. �"This year is not the case. Things are not as bad as that year. We have secured some sponsors and have some returning friends, which I can’t name as yet. Of course, we always want to better the awards every year and we welcome any new partnerships.” Thami says this year, the awards will take place on 9 November at the Market Theatre. �"The judges start deliberating on 15 August, we announce the nominees on 13 October, and we can’t wait for our 15th-year celebration.”