Feather Awards XVII Calls Us To ‘Pause, Look and Listen To Your Heart’

The countdown to the most fabulous event on the South African calendar has officially begun! The Feather Awards, the premier celebration of excellence and influence within the LGBTQIA+ community and its allies, is thrilled to announce the nominees for its spectacular seventeenth edition.
This year’s ceremony is set to dazzle on Thursday, 6 November 2025, returning to an iconic Johannesburg location that promises to be the heart of the celebration. In a world that often feels like it’s moving too fast, Feather Awards XVII invites everyone to embrace the 2025 theme: Pause, Look, and Listen to your Heart. It’s a sultry, soulful call to slow down, connect with our inner truth, and celebrate the courage it takes to live authentically.

Pause, Look, and Embrace The Feathers

“In a time when the global environment for queer people is increasingly challenging, our role in fostering crucial dialogue, driving awareness, and advocating for tangible policy change is more vital than ever. We are a platform that doesn’t just celebrate; we agitate, educate, and work towards a safer and more equitable South Africa for all.” – Thami Dish, Feather Awards co-founder

This year’s Feather awards have been refined to amplify both legacy and rising stars. Seven categories will be honoured for their profound impact, while the remaining awards will be hotly contested by a dazzling list of nominees who have lit up our screens, airwaves, and social media feeds over the past year.

Meet The Nominees

The Feather Awards celebrate the personalities and productions that have not only entertained the nation but have also moved the needle forward for representation and inclusivity.

Hunk of the Year

Diva Extraordinaire of the Year

Hot Chick of the Year

Social Media Personality of the Year

Best Styled Individual

Sports Personality of the Year

Musician of the Year

Honorary Recipients

Fag Hag of the Year

Busiswa

Role Model of the Year

Lee-che Janecke

Media Award of the Year

Netflix

Best LGBTIQ+ Initiative in the Public Sector

The Prevention and Combating of Hate Crimes and Hate Speech Bill (Honorary Recipient) 

Global Feather of the Year

Kasha Nabagesera (Uganda) 

Best LGBTIQ+ Youth Movement

Zandile Mabaso (Honorary Recipient)

Best LGBTIQ+ Initiative in the Private Sector

Nedbank #PrideAtWork (Honorary Recipient)

African Feather of the Year

John Meletsi

Simon Nkoli Award

Luiz De Barros

Twirl Your Feathers

Follow the Glamour and the Conversation on social media for the latest updates and, of course, the grand reveal of the winners at the Feather Awards.

MAIN IMAGE CREDIT: Photo by Markus Spiske/Pexels

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