2025 GQ Men of the Year Awards in SA: All the honourees

In the music category, Africori-signed artist Sjava received the Excellence in Music Award, following the release of his September project Uyena. The project has been widely praised for its versatility, blending rap, Afropop, and gospel, and further cementing Sjava’s position as one of the country’s most impactful artists.

“It means so much to sit in a room with people who consistently support my work and the work of everyone being celebrated tonight,” Sjava said. “The world is often quick to criticise and tear others down, so moments like this remind us that we are doing well, that what we create matters.”

The evening also recognised veteran singer Thandiswa Mazwai, who received the Music Icon Award, honouring her enduring influence on South African music and culture. Additionally, Siya “Slikour” Metane was presented with the Game Changer Award: Music & Entertainment, highlighting his impact in shaping the country’s music industry beyond performance.

Other music-related honourees included Shimza, who took home the Master of Entertainment Award, and a trio of emerging talents including Thandolwethu “Olly” Zondi, Nkululeko “Ciza” Nciza, and Lindokuhle Sobekwa were recognised with the Breakout Star Award for their rising profiles in the national scene.

The awards highlighted a spectrum of talent shaping South Africa’s cultural landscape, from business and sport to creative arts. In addition to the music awards, Sean Barber and Sheldon Tatchell were recognised as Business Leaders, Akani Simbine as Sports Champion, and Oscar “Oskido” Mdlongwa received The Legend Award.

The 2025 cohort reflects a focus on authenticity and cultural resonance, with music remaining central to the country’s global influence. Sjava’s recognition, in particular, marks a defining moment in a period characterised by artistic innovation and international acclaim for South African musicians.

Below is the full list of 2025 GQ Men of the Year Awards honourees:

Excellence in Music Award

• Sjava

Business Leader Award

• Sean Barber

Business Leader Award

• Sheldon Tatchell

Sports Champion Award

• Akani Simbine

Sports Trailblazer Award

• Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu

Master of Entertainment Award

• Shimza

Breakout Star Award

• Thandolwethu “Olly” Zondi

Breakout Star Award

• Nkululeko “Ciza” Nciza

Breakout Star Award

• Lindokuhle Sobekwa

Design Trailblazer Award

• MMUSOMAXWELL

The Disruptor Award

• Paul Siguqa

Game Changer Award – Music & Entertainment

• Siya “Slikour” Metane

Editors Tribute Award

• Relebogile Mabotja

Editors Tribute Award

• Sarah Langa

The Legend Award

• Oscar “Oskido” Mdlongwa

Music Icon Award

• Thandiswa Mazwai

Sports Maverick Award

• Dr Pitso Mosimane