Lifestyle

Much anticipated Glitz Awards spiral into chaos

Obakeng Sengwaketse. PIC MORERI SEJAKGOMO
 
Obakeng Sengwaketse. PIC MORERI SEJAKGOMO

The ceremony was graced by Mayor Oarabile Motlaleng and Minister of Sports and Arts, Jacob Kelebeng, and performances came from Charma Gal, Vee Mampeezy, Alefa Amos, and The Choreographers-BW. MCs Sphalaphala sa ga Marothi and MC Bethu were on stage to keep the night moving. On paper, the night looked promising, but in reality, it quickly spiralled into chaos. The event did not start on time, suffering multiple technical problems that left the audience frustrated. Instead of the glamour and excitement expected from an awards show of this scale, guests were met with delays and confusion.

The event dragged on past midnight, with the poor scheduling testing the patience of even the most enthusiastic attendees. Attendance was shockingly low; barely a quarter of the venue was filled. Many people left before half of the awards were even announced, leaving a sense of disappointment hanging over what should have been a night of celebration. Despite the chaos, the winners of the night were recognised across multiple categories. In the style segment, Thato Seagateng took home Best Styled Sports Person, Lady Precious was named Best Styled Plus-Size Model, and Theo Shelton won Best Styled Pageantry Queen/King. Tlhatlogo Sera Madiba was awarded for her work as Pageantry Director. Journalism accolades went to Tlhabo Kgosiemang (Best Styled Lifestyle Journalist) and Rachel Sebinyane (Best Styled Journalist), while Gosego Nkwe won Best Styled TV Presenter and Melanie Monare Best Styled Radio Presenter. In entertainment, Mpho Adolph Matshediso was recognised as Best Actor and Talenta as Best Actress. Comedy awards included Kidboy Base Laughs (Print Graphics Comedian), Belinda BW (Comedian), and Coster FX (Upcoming Comedian). DJ Casper, the DJ, kept the music going, complemented by the work of Hildah’s Make-Up and Chosen Design, both recognised for their contributions to style and fashion. Community and social awards were also handed out. Gospel artist Obakeng Sengwaketswe, TikToker Lebogang Lentle, and author Ndiko Muzila received recognition, with Ndiko also taking Religious Leader and Community Builder awards.

Youth community builder honours went to Selwana Motlatsi Motsemeng, GBV activist Desmond Lunga, hitmaker Juu Matere, female social influencer Amantle Brown, and disability advocate Ey Brizzy. Even with great talent on stage, the execution of the Glitz Awards overshadowed the achievements. Technical glitches, long delays, and a dwindling crowd made it difficult to enjoy the event. Many attendees left early, while those who stayed had to endure an awkward and disjointed program. Even the stellar performances from Vee Mampeezy, Charma Gal, and Alefa Amos could not save the night. The Glitz Awards 2025 had the talent, the lineup, and the potential to be a remarkable event, but poor planning and execution turned it into a disappointing experience. Organisers must seriously rethink the logistics, timing, and audience engagement if future editions are to match the glamour and prestige promised by the brand. Until then, the 2025 edition will be remembered not for the awards, but for the chaos.