Thandiswa Mazwai Bags Feather Award’s Simon Nkoli Award

Sensational queer singer Thandiswa Mazwai went all out at the just concluded 15th Feather Awards.

The highly anticipated LGBTQI+ event, wrapped up its celebration of diversity and inclusivity in a dazzling event at The Market Theatre in Johannesburg last night.

Hosted by the dynamic Modiselle sisters, Bontle and Refilwe, alongside Sign Language interpreter Andiswa P Gebashe, the glamorous affair brought together stars from the realms of entertainment, fashion, and activism. The purpose was to acknowledge and honor individuals and organizations that have significantly contributed to promoting inclusivity.

Themed #SolveForX this year, Feather Awards XV emphasized the importance of acceptance and unity. A distinguished panel of judges carrellu selected the winners. Notably, the Simon Nkoli Award was bestowed upon singer Thandiswa Mazwai.

During the acceptance, Thandiswa expressed her initial surprise at receiving such a prestigious accolade, mentioning that she thought it was too soon for her. She tearfully added, “It doesn’t get better than this. When Thami told me about this, I said, wait until I’m 85 then you can give me something like this.”

Gratefully acknowledging the honor, she shared her aspiration to be a gay icon. Thandiswa closed the show with her song “Abenguni.

The Full List of Winners

Best Styled Individual (JOINT AWARD)

PonaHalo and Yaya Mavundla

Hunk of the Year 

Thembinkosi Mthembu

Diva Extraordinaire of the Year

Mrs Mops

Sports Personality of the Year

Andile Dlamini

Role Model of the Year

Tony Kruger

Cutest Couple

Buhlebendalo & Botshelo

Hot Chick of the Year

Homba Mazaleni

Media Award of the Year (JOINT AWARD)

The Lunch League and Sowetan / S Mag

Fag Hag of the Year 

Tamara Dey

Designer of the Year

Otiz Seflo

Musician of the Year

Bongezizwe Mabandla

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

Tshiamo

Drama Queen

Lebo M

Social Media Personality of the Year  

Sabelo The Creator 

Best LGBTIQ+ Initiative: Private Sector 

Nike

Best LGBTIQ+ Initiative: Public Sector 

NO NOMINEES | NO WINNER

Best LGBTIQ+ Youth Movement 

Phuti Lekoloane Foundation

Best Rainbow Parenting (JOINT AWARD)

Zodwa Rannyadi and Nandipha Jovuka and Abraham Sebidi

African Feather of the Year

Samuell Matsikure