Nelson Mandela Bay Pride Celebrates LGBTQIA+ Visibility and Joy

The spirit of unity, resilience, and LGBTQIA+ pride pulsed through Gqeberha on Saturday as dozens gathered for the 2025 Nelson Mandela Bay Pride Parade and Festival.

Held at the Fairview Sports Centre on 15 November, the event brought together community members, allies, activists, and performers for an afternoon of celebration, visibility, and connection.

“This year’s Pride showcased incredible community spirit, artistic talent, and strong partnership support,” said NMB Pride PR Officer Tash Verwey. “To all attendees and community members who joined the march and festival with love, pride, and unity—your presence is what gives Pride its true meaning.”

A Day of Pride, Purpose and Community

While participation in the parade remained free and accessible for all, the post-parade festival included an entry fee of R100.

The event was hosted by MC Tarryn Light, whose energy kept the celebration flowing throughout the afternoon.

The festival also drew notable support from civic and international partners. Deputy Mayor Gary van Niekerk attended the festivities, along with Gert Claassen-Smit—Mr Gay World South Africa 2025 finalist and World Pride Co-Chair for InterPride.

Representatives from the European Union in South Africa, a key sponsor of this year’s event, were also present to show their solidarity with Nelson Mandela Bay’s LGBTQIA+ community.

New Pride Ambassadors Announced

One of the highlights of the day was the announcement of NMB Pride’s new Mx Ambassadors for 2025/2026: JD Mulder and Zintle Mbango.

“They will represent the organisation over the coming year, championing inclusivity, visibility, and community empowerment within Nelson Mandela Bay and beyond,” said Verwey. “We look forward to the incredible work and advocacy they will bring to the role.”

Organisers described the 2025 Parade and Festival as a powerful reminder of the LGBTQIA+ community’s resilience and strength in the face of ongoing challenges.

“This year’s event reaffirmed the importance of safe spaces, representation, and collective celebration,” said Verwey. “The 2025 NMB Pride Parade and Festival stands as a beautiful testament to the strength, resilience, and togetherness of the LGBTQIA+ community in Nelson Mandela Bay.”