The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and ILGA World (the International Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Trans and Intersex Association) are excited to announce that Yaya Mavundla will host the inaugural International Pride Awards Ceremony, set to take place on 13 November 2024, in Cape Town, South Africa.
Yaya Mavundla is a proud transgender woman and a multi-award-winning LGBTIQ+ activist, artist and media personality from South Africa. She gained mainstream recognition through her role in the reality TV show “Becoming” and has made headlines for her bold and trailblazing initiatives, such as launching the clothing line “Queer Comfort” and hosting prominent exhibitions such as “Black, Trans & Bold”.
The International Pride Awards, launched by UNDP and ILGA World on 17 May 2024, is a groundbreaking initiative designed to honor the extraordinary contributions of individuals and allies advancing LGBTIQ+ equality across the globe. In its inaugural year, the awards have already received an overwhelming response, with nominations from 58 countries across all continents.
“As a proud South African transgender activist and artist, I am delighted to host the first International Pride Awards in my home country. South Africa has been at the forefront of LGBTIQ+ rights, not just in Africa but around the world,” said Yaya Mavundla. “At the same time, even with our constitutional protections and legacy of activism, we have much more work to do to achieve equality. These awards celebrate our progress globally, while reminding us of the challenges ahead. I look forward to celebrating our equality heroes who’ve done incredible work and continue to be authentic in all they do, which is what my work is all about.”
The awards come at a critical time. While international law mandates the promotion and protection of the human rights of all people, many LGBTIQ+ individuals continue to face severe discrimination, marginalization and violence. In 61 countries, consensual same-sex sexual acts are still criminalized, with the death penalty imposed in some cases. Few countries provide constitutional protections for sexual orientation, gender identity and expression, and sex characteristics. Against this backdrop, the International Pride Awards seek to shine a light on those who are driving change and advancing equality, often at great personal risk.
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This year’s award categories are:
- Movement building in the face of hostility
- Celebrating diverse lives
- Emerging leader
- Lifelong pursuit of equality
- Extraordinary ally
The awardees, selected by a committee of highly experienced LGBTIQ+ advocates, will be announced during the ceremony. The awards are a central part of the 31st ILGA World Conference and will bring together global leaders, activists and advocates to honour the exceptional efforts of these equality champions, and serve as a reminder of the ongoing fight for equality and the critical need to protect human rights for all.