LGBTQ+ stories of resilience and advocacy on Human Rights Day

As South Africa marked Human Rights Day on Saturday, March 21, members of the LGBTQ+ community in Cape Town shared personal stories highlighting resilience, identity, and the ongoing fight for equality.

While the day often centres on activism, local voices say the lived reality of LGBTQ+ people goes beyond protests, reflecting both progress and persistent challenges.

Acentra West Khalifa, a drag performer from Monte Vista working in Milnerton, said the journey has been one of self-discovery and creative expression.

“My journey has been a mix of self-discovery, growth, and learning to fully accept that who I am is valid."

“Being part of the LGBTQ+ community has allowed me to express myself creatively through drag. As my drag persona grows, so do I in my everyday life — it has been an incredibly powerful and transformative outlet for me,” he said.

Acentra has also faced prejudice, both outside and within the LGBTQ+ community.

“People sometimes don’t take you seriously or expect you to fit into boxes. It can be draining, but it has made me stronger and more aware of standing firmly in my truth,” he said.

Support from family and chosen family has been vital: “My grandmother, my aunt, and my drag mother have created a space where I feel seen, accepted, and free from judgment.”

For Igitte Adams (known as Nick) from Lotus River, advocacy started young.

“Growing up in a Christian household, I was raised by my late granny, who was a God-fearing woman. I felt different — I hated dresses and loved wearing jeans. Thankfully, my family accepted me,” said Nick.

By 16, Nick had begun speaking out on social media, becoming a voice for LGBTQ+ rights.

“There will always be people judging me, but that doesn’t stop me from being my true self. I’m loved, I’m accepted, and I’m not alone,” she said.

Nick urges young LGBTQ+ people struggling with acceptance to “take your time, be gentle with yourself, and surround yourself with people who uplift and support you. You are enough, just as you are.”

Jackye Majawie, founder of Majawie Safe Space NPO, has spent over a decade advocating for marginalized LGBTQ+ individuals in the Western Cape.

“My journey as a transgender woman is one of transformation and service,” she said.

“I have survived IPV, GBV, hate speech, and hate crimes. These experiences have made me a specialist in the resilience required to survive and lead in the Western Cape.”

She highlighted the importance of a systemic change: “I want integrated healthcare where HIV, TB, and Gender Affirming Care are treated as standard human rights. We need more trans women in leadership roles and laws that protect us with dignity. Young LGBTQ+ people should know they are not alone — their identity is their power.”

Jackye Majawie added: “Human Rights Day serves as a reminder that while laws and policies are important, the real work of equality is lived in everyday actions: supporting, accepting, and valuing people for who they are. For the LGBTQ+ community in the Western Cape, this day is a celebration of resilience, courage, and the ongoing fight for dignity and human rights for all.”

All three voices highlight the need for acceptance, education, and safe spaces.

Acentra said that misconceptions — such as LGBTQ+ identities being a phase or a choice — must be challenged.

“Representation, inclusion in media, workplaces, and schools, and support from both family and community are vital to creating environments where LGBTQ+ people can thrive,” He said.

If you would like to find out about the work that Majawie Safe Space does you can email them at Majawiesafespace123@gmail.com. 
 
You can also connect with Acentra and Nick on social media.

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