The 27th annual SA Style Awards lit up the Southern Sun Hyde Park Hotel in Johannesburg with glitz, glamour, and jaw-dropping fashion, as some of Mzansi’s most stylish celebrities gathered for a night of celebration under the theme “All That Glitters.”
Among the most celebrated stars of the evening was legendary actress and producer Connie Ferguson, who was honoured with the prestigious Style Icon award. With grace and elegance, Connie accepted the accolade, sharing heartfelt words with guests.
“I am so honoured,” she said. “What we do is not easy, you can easily get discouraged. It’s a dog-eat-dog business. But I have learned to ‘do everyone with love’ and be kind.”
Speaking to DRUM, Connie added that she was humbled by the validation of the award, proving once again why she continues to be a powerhouse in the industry.
Zanele Potelwa, known for her vibrant presence on radio and television, walked away with The Next Big Thing award. Taking to social media, she thanked her supporters and media family. “Today is the day! Thank you, Jesus. Thank you to all the amazing media family that celebrated with me,” she wrote. “We are because of you guys… Here’s to being The Next Big Thing at the 2025 SA Style Awards for my career as a whole in Entertainment thus far. So grateful.”
Model Lebo Malope, speaking to Sowetan S Magazine, said, “I feel very amazing. I’m so happy, excited and grateful,” after being awarded Most Stylish Model.
Actress and fashion designer Enhle Mbali Mlotshwa added more sparkle to the night in her feathery ensemble. Also speaking to Sowetan S Magazine, she said, “We’re here at the Style Awards and I’m here to celebrate my win today for Best Artist on Screen and it’s exciting.”
Style was on full display as stars strutted down the red carpet in bold, eye-catching looks. Zanele Potelwa stunned in a honeycomb and champagne ballroom gown, Zoe Modiga glittered in a custom Nao Serati piece, and Connie Ferguson shone in a rhinestone and sequin floor-length gown with a matching sheer cape. Lebo Malope wore a timeless plaid suit, and Enhle Mbali turned heads in feathers.
The Most Innovative Style award was jointly received by former Miss SA and author Shudufhadzo Musida and model Yuri Pailmanz. Enhle Mbali was honoured with the title of Most Stylish Performing Artist on TV and Film, while Zoe Modiga walked away with the award for Most Stylish Performer in Music.
Mzukisi Mbane, the talent behind the fashion brand Imprint, won Most Stylish Designer in Fashion. The award for Most Stylish Media Personality went to Leandie du Randt, and Most Stylish Couple was awarded to the striking pair Katleho Sinivasan and Omuhle Gela.
In the modelling category, Denetric Malope and Lebo Malope were both honoured with the Most Stylish Model award, showcasing their standout fashion sense on and off the runway. Lala Tuku took home the award for Most Stylish Business Personality. Rising stars Makoma Mohale and Zanele Potelwa were named The Next Big Thing, cementing their status as exciting new talents to watch in the entertainment industry.
Finally, the highlight of the night was the Style Icon award, given to Connie Ferguson, whose presence and influence in the industry continue to inspire.
Red carpet interviews: @Sowetan S Mag
