The 2025 GQ Men of the Year Awards unfolded last Friday at the Fairlawns Boutique Hotel in Johannesburg, where an intimate assembly of 50 distinguished guests gathered to celebrate South Africa’s trailblazers and cultural heavyweights.
The evening honoured the individuals reshaping the country’s creative, cultural, and business landscape with Africori taking centre stage as Sjava was awarded the 2025 Excellence in Music Award.
Sjava’s win follows the resounding success of his September release, Uyena 2.0, a project that further cemented his position as one of South Africa’s most versatile and impactful artists.
His seamless evolution from rap to Afropop to gospel continues to demonstrate a dynamic range that places him firmly in a league of his own.
Reflecting on the honour, Sjava expressed gratitude for the recognition and the room of peers who continue to champion his craft:
“It means so much to sit in a room with people who consistently support my work and the work of everyone being celebrated tonight. 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.”
Every year, the GQ Men of the Year Awards spotlight visionaries, risk-takers, and cultural forces whose contributions shape how South Africa shows up in the world.
The 2025 cohort embodies the spirit of now bold in their ambition, unafraid in their leadership, and relentless in their pursuit of purpose.
From innovators shifting the boundaries of business and sport to artists influencing the sound and narrative of a generation, these honourees not only defined the moment but set the tone for the future.
2025 GQ MEN OF THE YEAR — SELECT 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
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