A groundbreaking event to honor equality defenders
Cape Town, South Africa, hosted the inaugural International Pride Awards, celebrating five remarkable individuals committed to defending LGBTIQ+ rights. Organized by South African trans activist and artist Yaya Mavundla, the event marked a historic moment during the 31st ILGA World Conference. Over 1,000 activists and human rights allies gathered for the celebration, with many others joining via a live broadcast. The evening featured a musical performance by South African artist Bongeziwe Mabandla.
Recognition for exceptional contributions
The International Pride Awards, jointly organized by ILGA World and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), spotlighted five winners across specific categories:
- Building a Movement in Hostile Contexts: Ruslan Savolainen
A LGBTIQ+ activist for nearly 20 years in Russia, Ruslan fled the country after the movement was criminalized and labeled extremist. Despite living in exile, he continues to fight for equality. - Celebrating Diverse Lives: Immani Da Silva
From Angola, this writer, artist, and activist leverages her public platform as a trans woman to raise awareness of LGBTIQ+ issues in a society where such topics remain taboo. - Emerging Leader: Aaditya Rai
Founder of Rainbow Disability Nepal, the first Nepalese charity for LGBTIQ+ people with disabilities, Aaditya advocates for their inclusion and empowerment, drawing from his personal experience as an indigenous disabled man. - Lifetime Pursuit of Equality: Sonia Corrêa
Active for five decades, Sonia has contributed to influential initiatives like the Yogyakarta Principles and co-chairs programs focused on health and sexuality within the Brazilian Interdisciplinary AIDS Association. - Extraordinary Ally: Lize Ehlers
An artist and co-CEO of Drag Night Namibia, Lize uses her craft to combat homophobia and raise awareness. She also serves on the board of Equal Namibia, striving for equal rights in her country.
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Inspiring change in the face of adversity
The International Pride Awards embody the courage and resilience of human rights defenders, who often face significant personal risks. This first edition received nominations from 58 countries, demonstrating global support.
Jeffrey O’Malley, UNDP Senior Advisor, stated:
“In a time of considerable challenges and resistance, it is vital to celebrate those who tirelessly fight for LGBTIQ+ equality and inspire others to take action for an inclusive future.”
Julia Ehrt, Executive Director of ILGA World, added:
“These heroes of LGBTIQ+ equality inspire us all with their courage and dedication. Through the International Pride Awards, we reaffirm our commitment to a future where everyone can thrive without fear or prejudice.”
A fight still necessary
Despite progress, LGBTIQ+ individuals continue to face severe discrimination and violence worldwide. In 61 countries, same-sex relationships remain criminalized, with the death penalty applied in some cases. These alarming statistics underscore the importance of recognizing and supporting those striving for a more equal world.
For more information about the winners and the event, visit the official International Pride Awards website.
About the International Pride Awards
The International Pride Awards are an initiative by ILGA World and UNDP, supported by Sweden and the Netherlands. ILGA World unites over 2,000 organizations in 170 countries, while UNDP is the leading UN agency dedicated to tackling inequality, poverty, and climate change.
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