The Feather Awards have come of age. The 18th edition, themed "The Signature Edition", marks the milestone with a challenge as well as a celebration, asking young South Africans to put their names to the country's future.

Founder Thami "Thami Dish" Willis frames it plainly: "We are 18. This is the age of signature, an age where the choices you make matter." The theme arrives at a difficult moment. US foreign aid cuts have hit HIV programmes, youth employment initiatives and community health services the LGBTQIA+ sector relies on, and the country is heading into a local government election cycle in which youth participation remains low.

The annual Pride flag hoisting at Constitution Hill will be led by 18-year-old Chanel Diale, representing the next generation of queer activists and leaders. The flag will fly at the Constitutional Court's home throughout Pride Month.

The glamour stays. Signature categories such as Diva Extraordinaire, Hunk of the Year, Cutest Couple and the Simon Nkoli Award return, joined by new additions recognising youth-led movements, digital activism and grassroots organisers. Year-round workshops, mentorship circles and safe-space dialogues will also expand in the communities hit hardest by the funding shortfall.

The 2026 nominees

• Best Styled Individual: Banele Ndaba, Siya Bunny, Kagiso Mogola

• Hunk of the Year: Sdumo Mtshali, Vuyo Biyela, Teddy Geldart (DopeZuluboi)

• Musician of the Year: Thando Zide, Manana, Zee Nxumalo

• Social Media Personality of the Year: Primo Baloyi, Grace Mondlana, Coachella Randy

• Drama Queen of the Year: Credo V Daniels, Mel Viljoen, Limpopo Boy

• Hot Chick of the Year: Desiree Komi, Kitso Kgori, Dominic Zaca

• Diva Extraordinaire of the Year: Miss Gaga

• Best LGBTQIA+ Youth Initiative: Other Village People

• Best LGBTQIA+ Private Sector Initiative: ABSA

• Best LGBTQIA+ Public Sector Initiative: Prof. Zozo Nene

• Media: Black Burns Fast

• Sports Personality of the Year: Coach Desiree Ellis

• Cutest Couple of the Year: Fanney Tsimong and Nhlanhla Ndaba

Honorary recipients

• Fag Hag of the Year: Thobeka Mbane

• Maria McCloy Award: Maria Mc'Cloy

• Role Model of the Year: Felicia Mabuza-Suttle

• Global Feather of the Year: Hillary Shimi, Namibian Lesbian Festival Pride PopUp

• Simon Nkoli Award: to be announced

"Add your signature. Make it count," says Thami Dish. Follow @FeathersSA on Instagram and X, and use #Feathers18.