A Soulful Call to ‘Pause, Look and Listen to Your Heart’ at the Feather Awards
Back for its 17th edition, the Feather Awards returned to Melrose Arch with a moving message — “Pause, Look and Listen to Your Heart.” The prestigious event celebrated courage, authenticity, and the power of living boldly and unapologetically, wrapped in a night of glamour, heartfelt tributes, and soul-stirring performances.
The dynamic hosting duo, Khaya Dladla and Andiswa P. Gebashe, brought the stage to life with infectious energy and humour, while Pink Carpet hosts Penny Lebyane and Troy Malange dazzled audiences with their charisma and flair. Their synergy set the tone for an evening of celebration and connection, guiding guests through a program filled with emotion, laughter, and unforgettable highlights.
This year’s refined format honoured seven legacy icons while spotlighting emerging talents shaping entertainment, advocacy, and creativity across South Africa. The Feathers once again proved to be more than an awards show — it was a cultural movement celebrating representation, visibility, and inclusivity across the nation.
“This year, we wanted to remind everyone to pause, look, and truly listen — not just to the noise of the world, but to the rhythm of your own heart. The Feathers have always been about reflection, authenticity, and courage. This night was an invitation to slow down, reconnect with your truth, and celebrate the power of living boldly.”
said Feather Awards co-founder Thami Dish
The night’s performances electrified the stage, creating an atmosphere of celebration and soulful unity. Lira opened with a breathtaking performance, followed by Donovan Yaards’ vibrant dance set and Lebo Toko Mathibe’s moving display of artistry. The evening reached its crescendo with Busiswa, whose high-energy performance brought the audience to its feet, sealing the night with rhythm and joy.
The Feather Awards 17 Winners
- Hunk of the Year: Troy Malange
- Diva Extraordinaire of the Year: Lilian Dube
- Designer of the Year: Mzukisi Mbane
- Hot Chick of the Year: Luyanda Zuma
- Social Media Personality of the Year: Zaca Dominic
- Best Styled Individual: Mordecai
- Sports Personality of the Year: Andile Dlamini
- Drama Queen of the Year: Simphiwe Dana and ‘Her’ Hairstyle
- Musician of the Year: Nkosazana Daughter
- Socialite of the Year: Gogo Skhotheni
- Best Rainbow Parenting: Sfisio Khumalo and Vusumuzi Sobopha
- Cutest Couple of the Year: Crosby Jodwana and Sean Nhlapo
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 (Public Sector): Prevention and Combating of Hate Crimes and Hate Speech Bill
- Best LGBTIQ+ Initiative (Private Sector): Nedbank #PrideAtWork
- Best LGBTIQ+ Youth Movement: Zandile Mabaso
- African Feather of the Year: John Meletsi
- Global Feather of the Year: Jacqueline Kasha (Uganda)
- Simon Nkoli Award: Luiz De Barros
The Feather Awards 17 reminded everyone that amidst the rush of life, taking a moment to pause and listen to one’s heart can be a radical act of love and truth. It was a night where glamour met grace, and where every colour of the rainbow shone bright in celebration of identity, visibility, and unity.
Follow the Feathers online for all the dazzling highlights and heartfelt moments:
🌐 www.featherawards.co.za
🐦 X (Twitter): @FeathersSA
📸 Instagram: @featherssa
📘 Facebook: The Feather Awards SA
🎉 #Feathers17 #PauseLookAndListen
