Outlaws actor Thembinkosi Mthembu has won the hearts of many as he won Hunk Of The Year at this year’s Feather Awards.
The annual gig is one of the most anticipated events on the South African entertainment calendar.
It concluded its 15th annual celebration of diversity and inclusivity in a spectacular soiree on Thursday evening.
Glitzy affair
The glitzy affair took place at the Market Theatre in Johannesburg.
It brought together luminaries from the world of entertainment, fashion, and activism to recognise and honour outstanding individuals and organisations.
The awards were hosted by renowned socialite siblings Refilwe and Bontle Modiselle.
They were joined by TV personality and sign language host Andiswa P Gebashe.
The Feather Awards XV celebrated the importance of unity, acceptance, and breaking down barriers in society.
The evening was filled with quirky anecdotes, heartwarming moments, entertainment, and unforgettable performances.
Honouring the heroes and heroines
The event kept audiences captivated and reinforced the message of embracing diversity.
The winners of the Feather Awards XV were selected by a panel of judges who assessed the nominees in various categories.
This year’s recipients demonstrated their unwavering commitment to promoting diversity and inclusivity.
They serve as shining examples to inspire change and acceptance within South Africa and beyond.
This year, the Simon Nkoli Award went to the multi-talented Thandiswa Mazwai.
The 15th annual Feathers Awards were produced in partnership with the Thami Dish Foundation.
Celebration of diversity
The event also served as a platform to inspire change and advocate for a more inclusive and diverse society.
Thami Kotlolo, co-founder of the Feather Awards, said: “As a community, we always focus on the positive, inspiring not just each other but others with our boldness, braveness, and colourful outlook on life.
“The focus this year was to celebrate the diversity, creativity, and resilience of all communities, during these challenging times.
“Fifteen years in, tonight was truly overwhelming with huge support from every corner.
“Congratulations to all our wonderful Feather Awards XV winners. We continue to celebrate you with these awards,” said Kotlolo.
Here are the winners of the Feather Awards XV:
Hunk of The Year
- Thembinkosi Mthembu
Best Styled Individual (JOINT AWARD)
- PonaHalo and Yaya Mavundla
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+ Youth Movement
- Phuti Lekoloane Foundation
Best Rainbow Parenting (JOINT AWARD)
- Zodwa Rannyadi, Nandipha Jovuka and Abraham Sebidi
African Feather of the Year
· Samuell Matsikure
