Celebrating a world without borders

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The sixteenth Feather Awards lit up Johannesburg in a spectacular celebration of inclusivity, courage, and boundless unity.

THE FEATHER AWARDS THEME

This year, the theme of ‘Borderless Existence’ took centre stage. It highlighted the power of breaking down barriers, according to Fashion Force Africa.

It honoured not only the LGBTQIA+ community but extended recognition to differently-abled individuals and minority groups often overlooked.

The awards night, held at the trendy Sheds, was a rainbow of personalities and performances.

THE FEATHER AWARDS SHINE ON A RAINY NIGHT

Heavy rain couldn’t dampen the night; instead, it became part of the celebration, with attendees joking about starting fashionably late.

The theme inspired a diverse lineup of nominees and winners who embody courage, creativity, and resilience, according to Actor Spaces.

From groundbreaking activists to entertainment icons, each individual honoured has taken significant strides to amplify voices that are too often silenced.

THE FEATHER AWARDS HOSTS

Dineo Langa, Khaya Dladla, and Andiswa P Gebashe hosted the event. They did so alongside Pink Carpet stars Ayanda Makuzeni and Tumi Powerhouse, who brought charm, energy, and style.

The programme dazzled with heartfelt tributes, stirring performances, and proud declarations of achievements.

Winners across various categories stole the spotlight with their inspiring work.

ICONS AT THE FEATHER AWARDS

The evening honoured fashion-forward icon Lunathi Mampofu as ‘Best Styled Individual’ and sprinting sensation Akani Simbine as ‘Hunk of the Year.’

Nthati Moshesh brought home the ‘Diva Extraordinaire of the Year’ award. The indefatigable Kgothatso Montjane won both ‘Sports Personality of the Year’ and ‘Role Model of the Year’, making her a true champion in the eyes of all.

The awards also recognised corporate and public entities advancing inclusivity.

SAFE AND SUPPORTIVE COMMUNITIES

The Momentum Group received the Feather Award for ‘Best LGBTIQ+ Initiative: Private Sector,’ while Higher Health earned the ‘Best LGBTIQ+ Initiative: Public Sector’ award.

These organisations are at the forefront of building safe and supportive environments for the LGBTQIA+ community and other underrepresented groups.

THE SIMON NKOLI AWARD

One particularly touching award was the Simon Nkoli Award. It is named after the iconic activist and given to individuals who champion LGBTQIA+ rights.

This year, the Feather Award went to Felipe Mazibuko, a fashion world trailblazer who, for over 20 years, has worked tirelessly to break down societal barriers.

“This award isn’t just for me,” Felipe said. “It’s for everyone who’s ever felt unseen in this world. Together, we’re making sure everyone is valued.”

The night wasn’t just about fashion and glamour, according to Urban Street Culture

THE FEATHER AWARDS AND ACTIVISM

Zackie Achmat, an HIV and social justice activist, took home the prestigious ‘African Feather Award of the Year.’

His work in pushing for equal rights and fighting HIV stigma has made a mark in South Africa.

“I accept this with immense pride, but also with a commitment to keep fighting,” Achmat said passionately. “Our work is far from over.”

The evening wasn’t complete without memorable categories like ‘Fag Hag of the Year,’ awarded to Nontokozo Madonsela, and ‘Drama Queen,’ taken by Tshedi Mholo and Bongani Nchang.

POSITIVITY AND PRIDE AT THE FEATHER AWARDS

The Feather Awards crowned social media darling Hope Ramafalo as ‘Social Media Personality of the Year.’

Best Rainbow Parenting’ went to three wonderful families who exemplify unconditional love.

With the #FeatherAwardsXVI and #BorderlessExistence hashtags lighting up social media, the event sparked a wave of positivity and pride.

Thami Kotlolo, Feather Awards co-founder, summarised the spirit of the night beautifully.

A WORLD WITHOUT BORDERS

“This year, we celebrate a vision of a world without borders. We honour every voice, every identity, and every experience.

By recognising these remarkable individuals, we continue to push boundaries and build a society where everyone belongs.”

The Feather Awards XVI showed that South Africa is indeed ready to embrace a borderless existence, one that respects, values, and celebrates everyone.