As International Pride Month comes to a close, the final week of June offers a powerful lineup of events that spotlight queer health, visibility, rights and community celebration.
From urgent conversations around access to care, to vibrant pride marches and soulful musical performances, these events invite us to gather, reflect and take action. Here’s what’s happening around the country:
GALA: Queer Health Matters Workshop – Joburg
This workshop, hosted by GALA, is a space for the queer community and health service providers to reflect on the impact of healthcare cuts and clinic closures since January. The event aims to gather stories, surface concerns and share strategies on how to respond to ongoing challenges in accessing affirming care.
Who should attend: student health services, sexual health service providers, and the broader queer student community in Braamfontein, Parktown, Auckland Park and surrounds.
Date: Wednesday, 26 June 2025
Time: 10:00am – 2:00pm
Venue: 19th Floor, Es’kia Building, University Corner, Braamfontein
More info: Email joziqueershare@gmail.com
Durban Pride Liberation March and Festival
This year’s Durban Pride centres on the theme “Closing the Gap,” focusing on LGBTQIA+ persons living with HIV (PLHIV), and the continued reporting of hate crimes and human rights abuses. The festival aims to amplify awareness, services, and solidarity within the queer community and broader public. There will be several afterparties hosted around the city.
Date: Saturday, 28 June 2025
Time: Gathering from 10:00am | Parade begins at 12:00pm
Venue: Gugu Dlamini Park, The Workshop, Durban
More info: Facebook
No Fear Pride March – Mamelodi
Organised by Walk with Heart (WWH), this annual township Pride march honours LGBTIQ+ lives and visibility in Mamelodi. Under the theme “Our Identity Will Not Be Trumped,” the march is both a celebration and an act of resistance. A panel discussion will follow to reflect on the ongoing struggles and affirm the community’s resilience.
Date: Saturday, 28 June 2025
Time: March begins at 8:00am | Panel discussion to follow
Venue: Solomon Mahlangu Freedom Square Amphitheatre, Mamelodi
More info: Facebook
Johannesburg Queer Chorus presents: LANDSCAPES
Landscapes is a moving musical performance by the Johannesburg Queer Chorus that weaves together stories of identity, heritage and pride through song. This must-see one-day-only production is a vibrant expression of the beauty and complexity of queer South African lives.
Date: Saturday, 28 June 2025
Times: Matinee: 3:00pm (Doors open 2:30pm) / Evening show: 7:00pm (Doors open 6:30pm)
Venue: UJ Arts Centre, Auckland Park, Johannesburg
Tickets: Available at Quicket
Note: Refreshments will be on sale. Secure parking available – please bring your ID or driver’s licence.
Eswatini Pride 2025
The kingdom of Eswatini will be holding its 8th annual Pride event under the theme of “Living Our Truth” in Manzini. It’s hosted by the organisation, Eswatini Sexual & Gender Minorities.
Date: Saturday, 28 June 2025
Time: From 9am
Venue: SNAT Centre Manzini
More info: Facebook
Whether you’re marching, sharing your story, or celebrating through music, this week is a reminder that Pride is about visibility, action and connection. Show up, speak out, and be part of the movement.
If you’re hosting a queer event or community initiative, share it with us at Nompilo@mambaonline.com — we’d love to help spread the word.
