“What we create matters” – Sjava on his honour at the GQ Men of the Year Awards

Musician Jabulani “Sjava” Hadebe received the Music Excellence Winner award at the GQ Men of The Year.

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 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 recognition marks another milestone in an already defining era for South African music one where artistry, authenticity, and cultural resonance continue to lead the global conversation The 2025 cohort embodies the spirit of now bold in their ambition, unafraid in their leadership, and relentless in their pursuit of purpose.

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,” he 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.”

Sjava continues to build an extraordinary artistic legacy defined by honesty, cultural grounding, and sonic innovation. His BET Award win marked a pivotal moment in his trajectory strengthening a body of work that continues to shape South African music and resonate globally The 2025 GQ Men of the Year Awards unfolded last night 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.

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.