‘Teenage’ Feather Awards reveals 2021 nominees

Now in its 13th year, the Feather Awards has announced its 2021 nominees; a colourful and star-studded list of queer and allied celebrities and activists.

This year’s much-coveted nominees are comprised of personalities and individuals from various sectors including entertainment, politics, lifestyle, sport and business.

Each nominated individual or organisation, in one way or the other, has either represented, inspired, or celebrated the LGBTIQ community with excellence and distinction over the past twelve months, explained the organisers.

Category finalists and then winners will be selected and adjudicated by a knowledgeable panel consisting of members of the media and entertainment industry.

This 2021 outing is themed Queer Lives Matter, in line with global conversations that seek to address LGBTIQ issues that include violent crimes against the community; a scourge that has devastated South Africa this year. As such, the Feathers will commemorate the lives of those lost over the past 12 months.

“The award plans to amplify the plight of the community during the build-up to the awards,” said the organisers. In partnership with the Thami Dish Foundation, the Feathers will present a series of LGBTIQ+ dialogues, workshops and trainings in communities across the country.

The awards puts a spotlight on LGBTIQ activists who are doing impactful work in various communities. It also pays homage to supportive media bodies, LGBTIQ student movements and selected role models who enrich and back the community.

“From starting out as a small celebration at a nightclub in Rosebank, the Feathers is now a whole teenager; a fully operational powerhouse of programmes,” commented Thami Kotlolo, co-founder of the Feather Awards.

“Through the awards we have showcased, celebrated and shared the South African LGBTIQ community with not only the African continent but also the world at large. This year we are celebrating the entire community with the Queer Lives Matter theme.

“It’s been thirteen years in the making, so here’s to the next milestone, onward to adulthood,” added Kotlolo.

Here are the Feather Awards 2021 nominees

Best Styled Individual (This category is for individuals who have consistently kept to their style throughout the year)

• Leroy Marc
• Rich Mnisi
• Zozibini Tunzi

Hunk of the Year (These men just ooze the X-factor, you look at them and you just want a strong hug)

• Siya Khumalo
• Wiseman Zithar
• Rich Mnisi

Diva Extraordinaire of the Year (These women always carry themselves well and they have a strong presence)

• Johanna Mukoki
• Ayanda Ncwane
• Amanda Dambuza

Sports Personality of the Year (People that have inspired in the world of sports)

• Phuti ‘Minaj’ Lekoloane
• Protea Pumas
• Palesa Manaleng

Role model of the Year (They never put their foot wrong in the public eye and continue to inspire and contribute positively to society)

• Phuthi ‘Minaj’ Lekoloane
• Roché Kester
• Thebe Magugu

Cutest Couple (these are couples people adore and look up to)

• Musa & Liesel Mthombeni
• Sylvester Chauke & Tumelo Mmusi
• Latoya & Lebo Keswa

Hot Chick of the Year (These women ooze all kinds of appeals)

• Kamo Mphela
• Shudufadzo Musida
• Ama Qamatha

Media Award of the Year

• Becoming
• ShakeDown YFM
• The River

‘Fag hag’ of the Year (They never leave home without their favourite accessories, a gay friend)

• Lady Du
• Zoe Modiga
• Nokuthula Mavuso

Musician of the Year (Who we love to listen to on and off stage)

• Lady Du
• Makhadzi
• Langa Mavuso

Socialite of the Year (Seen at every opening of an envelope or the erection of a stop sign)

• Johanna Mukoki
• Lelo WhatGood
• Bobby Blanco

Drama Queen of the Year (Personalities we read about every Sunday over breakfast)

• Nonku Williams and her mom
• Thabo Smalls & KeJile keJile
• Khanyi Mbau

Social Media Personality of the Year

• The Funny Chef
• Coachella Randy
• Tumi Powerhouse

Best LGBTIQ Initiative: Private Sector

• Levis X Langa Mavuso
• Ernest & Young
• Tshepo Jeans

Best LGBTIQ Initiative: Public Sector

• Gauteng Department of Education
• Department of Education Western Cape
• National Youth Development Agency

Best LGBTIQ Youth Movement

• Vaal LGBT
• Vogue Nights
• Queer Lives Matter

Best Rainbow Parenting

• House of Diamond (Original Hunty)
• Bongani Sibeko & Ndumiso Ngidi
• Virginia Magwaza

The 2021 Simon Nkoli Award will be presented to one of the country’s most celebrated fashion design icons; David Tlale