Garden Route Pride Festival back as imbizo

GEORGE NEWS - The vibrant spirit of inclusivity and celebration is set to shine once again as the Garden Route Pride Festival returns for its third annual event, this year reimagined as an imbizo.

Scheduled to take place on 7 September at the Rosemoor Stadium, the event promises to be larger and more impactful than ever.

The aim with the imbizo is to celebrate the social- and self-acceptance, achievements, legal rights, and pride of the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer (LGBTQ+) community in the region.

The transformation from a traditional pride festival to an imbizo highlights a mission to foster a world where all LGBTQ+ individuals can live safely and openly within their communities and workplaces.

"Our imbizo will be a beacon of hope and celebration, bringing together diverse voices and talents to honour the resilience and contributions of the LGBTQ+ community," said the spokesperson for the organising committee, Khanyisile Fortuin. "We envision a society where everyone is accepted and valued for who they are."

The festival will feature a diverse line-up of performances, activities and workshops designed to cater to all ages and interests. From live music and dance performances to informative panels and interactive workshops, there will be something for everyone to enjoy and engage with.

The organisers are collaborating closely with local law enforcement, event security and the police to create a secure and welcoming environment for all attendees.

• As part of the Pride Month celebrations, Gender DynamiX (GDX), Africa's pioneering organisation dedicated to the transgender and gender-diverse community, will host a gender-affirming healthcare training session on 4 to 5 September.

The upcoming training will provide healthcare providers, educators and community workers with essential skills to support and affirm the transgender and gender-diverse community.

For more information and to join the celebrations, contact Fortuin on 073 364 0129.

Marking a significant milestone, this is the first time the LGBTQ+ community has taken the helm to host an imbizo.