Ms. Estelle Otto has dedicated the past decade to advancing the rights and well-being of the LGBTQIA+ community. Her journey is marked by a steadfast commitment to fostering understanding, acceptance, and equality for all. As a founding member of the provincial LGBTIQ+ task team, Estelle has played a pivotal role in shaping policies and initiatives that ensure the voices of the LGBTQIA+ community are heard and respected. In her capacity at the Department of Social Development, Estelle has spearheaded sensitivity training for social workers, empowering them with the knowledge and compassion necessary to provide vital psychosocial support services. Her efforts have been instrumental in creating safe spaces where individuals can find solace and understanding, knowing they a supported by a network of caring professionals.

Advocate Sinah Pilla has dedicated her life to promoting justice and equality, forging a path of empowerment and community support through her extensive legal career. With a foundation built upon a B-luris and LLB from the University of the North, Sinah’s journey began in 2001, marking the start of a career driven by passion and commitment. Her initial ten years at Jabula Attorneys laid the groundwork for her expertise, allowing her to refine her skills and deepen her understanding of the legal landscape. In 2012, Sinah was admitted as an advocate, further empowering her to champion the rights of individuals and families. Today, Advocate Pilla serves as a Legal Administrations Officer at the Department of Social Justice, where she focuses on domestic violence and LGBTQIA+ related matters. Her role is pivotal in providing support and advocacy for those who are often marginalized, ensuring that their voices are heard and their rights protected.

Thomas is the Founder and Director of The Fruit Basket, an inspiring organization located in Johannesburg, South Africa, with a heartfelt mission to champion social inclusion, legal recognition, and the restoration of dignity and safety for LGBTQIA+ refugees. Driven by a profound passion for human rights and advocacy, Thomas has tirelessly led efforts confront the unique challenges faced by queer and trans refugees. These challenges include accessing essential documentation, securing safe housing, obtaining vocational training, and receiving appropriate healthcare. Under Thomas’s visionary leadership, The Fruit Basket has blossomed into a crucial lifeline for LGBTQIA+ refugees, offering not just safe housing and community support but all nurturing opportunities for empowerment. His dedication extends beyond local efforts, as actively engages with local, regional, and international human rights platforms, such as the UN Special Procedures, to elevate the voices of marginalized communities and advocate for transformative systemic change.

Nyasha “Masi” Zhakata stands as a distinguished figure in the realm of human rights embodying a steadfast dedication to the rights of sexual and gender minorities, refugees, and migrants. As the founder of the Pachedu LGBTQI+ Collective, Masi initiated this grassroots endeavour in 2016 to provide vital support, advocacy, and a nurturing community for LGBTQI+ refugees in South Africa. Under their leadership, Pachedu has blossomed into a sanctuary of hope, offering a haven for individuals confronting severe discrimination—a place where healing, empowerment, and mobilization flourish in their role as the Global Director of The Dream Academy, Masi’s influence extends acro more than 15 countries. This flagship program, a cornerstone of Safe Place Internationa empowers LGBTQI+ refugees, displaced individuals, and single mothers by equipping them with essential tools to forge sustainable futures. Through their visionary leadership, Masi inspires resilience and transformative change within communities worldwide.

Thabani Mabezane, affectionately known Thabsie, stands as a beacon of hope and resilience. As the acting media and programs manager at Lebo Basadi Foundation, Thabsie embodies the Foundation’s core mission: to uplift and empower queer displaced persons and champion feminist voices in every corner of society. Her tireless dedication to human rights and queer activism serves as an inspiration to all who cross her path. In her role, Thabsie draws upon a rich tapestry of academic and professional experiences. With a background in project management, conflict management, administration, HIV & AI testing and counseling, and communication studies, she brings a wealth of knowledge to her advocacy work. Her commitment to fostering understanding and compassion is matched only by her determination to create safe and inclusive spaces for marginalized communities. From 2022 to 2023, Thabsie made significant strides as a Project Assistant Officer for Par Families & Friends of South Queers, where she harnessed her expertise to advance their mission.