The 16th Feather Awards nomination ceremony at Constitutional Hill on October 2 was themed: ‘Borderless Existence’, and aims to celebrate the vibrant LGBTQIA+ community including diverse minority groups such as differently-abled individuals.
The awards are set to take place on November 7 with Dineo Langa, Khaya Dladla, and Andiswa Gebashe as the hosts.
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Co-founder of the Feather Awards Thami Kotlo shared, “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.”
Kotlolo added that in honoring this year’s nominees, the awards honor the strength of every individual regardless of ability, background, or identity, who has contributed to a rich, diverse landscape of society.
South African Sign Language activist Andiswa Gebashe said being asked to be a sign language host at the Feather Awards three years ago was groundbreaking.
“This opportunity opened doors for many other deaf people. It was also a way to fight for a language, which has since become an official language, and make it fashionable, which speaks to this year’s Feather Awards theme: ‘Borderless Existence’.”
Deputy Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture Peace Mabe noted that the department was proud of the work completed over the years by the Feather Awards.
“Thank you to the Feather Awards for including and recognising people with disabilities. As the first portfolio chairperson of women, children, and people with disabilities, I want to say such initiatives are close to my heart, and the issues about children, women, LGBTQIA+, and disabled people are my priority.”
The Simon Nkoli Award, which honours the late anti-apartheid, gay rights, and AIDS activist, will be awarded to the remarkable fashion icon Felipe Mazibuko, whose work has profoundly impacted the LGBTQIA+ community and broader societal structures in the fashion world.
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The African Feather Award goes to global activist Zakie Achmit, a co-founder of the Treatment Action Campaign, and known worldwide for his activism on behalf of people living with HIV and AIDS in South Africa. He currently serves as a board member and co-director of Ndifuna Ukwazi (Dare to Know), an organisation that aims to build and support social justice organisations and leaders.
The categories of this year’s awards include best-styled individual, hunk of the year, diva extraordinaire of the year, sports personality of the year, and more.
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