Feathers, rainbows, unicorns and glitter- this is how The Firs in Rosebank looked like for The Feather Awards XV nominees' celebration earlier today. The awards are set to celebrate the unique tapestry of the LGBTQIA+ community and honour those who have made a significant impact in the realms of entertainment, advocacy and more. The awards return for the 15th year and this year's event promises to be fierce and fabulous.
Thami Kotlolo, co-founder of the Feather Awards, said they are proud to celebrate all the nominees who have touched hearts, minds and lives of the LGBTQIA+ community in so many unique and extraordinary ways. The beloved Modiselle sisters, Refilwe, Bontle and Candice will return as hosts on Thursday, 9th November 2023 at the Market Theatre in Johannesburg. "This year we are celebrating the diversity, creativity and resilience of all communities, during these challenging times," Kotlolo said, adding that, "finding support for our initiatives continues to be a struggle, but we are forever inspired by the boldness and braveness of the queer community in continuing to push boundaries, claim spaces and create greater freedom for all. Thanks to them, we can continue our work in the community at large to educate and sensitise." Singer Thandiswa Mazwai will be honoured with the Simon Nkoli award, which can be equated to a lifetime achievement award.
Musa Keys
PonaHalo
Yaya Mavundla
Hunk of the Year
Thembinkosi Mthembu
Mondli Makhoba
Toss
Diva Extraordinaire of the Year
Mrs Mops
Sorisha Naidoo
Swanky Jerry
Sports Personality of the Year
Andile Dlamini
Akani Simbine
SA Netball
Role model of the Year
The Fruit Basket
Tony Kruger
Patsy P. Alley
Cutest Couple
Mandisa Mfeka & Kenay
Buhlebendalo & Botshelo
Xihla & Busi
Hot Chick of the Year
Uncle Waffles
Homba Mazaleni
Mordecai
Media Award of the Year
The Lunch League
Sowetan / S Mag
Kasi 2 Kasi Queer Cinema
Fag hag of the Year
Nhlanhla Mafu
Tamara Dey
Musa Mthombeni
Designer of the Year (new category)
Gert-Johan Coetzee
Otiz Seflo
Lulama Wolf
Musician
Tyler ICU
Bongezizwe Mabandla
Lloyiso
Socialite (Seen at every opening of an envelope or an erection of a stop sign)
Lethabo Lejoy Mathatho
Tshiamo
Dr Kgosientsho Ramokgopa
Drama Queen
Joku
Lebo M
Ayanda Ncwane
Social Media Personality of the Year
Sethu Nkosi
Barbie Jackson
Sabelo The Creator
Best LGBTIQ+ Initiative: Private Sector
Miss SA
Woolworths
Nike
Best LGBTIQ+ Initiative: Public Sector
Do Better
Best LGBTIQ+ Youth Movement
Sacred Heart School
Phuti Lekoloane Foundation
WAQE
Best Rainbow Parenting
Zodwa Rannyadi
Nandipha Jovuka
Abraham Sebidi
