Organisers of the inaugural Feather Awards have withdrawn ANC Youth League leader Julius Malema's nomination in the Drama Queen category.

The awards aim to honour South Africans seen as icons in the gay community. Malema was given the nod alongside record label boss Arthur Mafokate and socialite Khanyi Mbau.

Malema was reportedly unhappy about his nomination.

Organiser Thami Kotlolo said, "The intention is not to make anyone angry. It's a lighthearted event where you just need to laugh it off."