MambaOnline is stepping beyond the screen and into real-world community building this international Pride Month with the launch of its inaugural Queer Business Networking Social.
It promises an exciting evening of connection, inspiration and celebration on Thursday, 18 June at the Naked Woolf restaurant in Rosebank, Johannesburg.
Bringing together LGBTQ+ entrepreneurs, professionals, creatives, brands and changemakers, the event marks a significant new chapter for South Africa’s leading LGBTQ+ media platform as it creates a dedicated space for queer people to network, collaborate and thrive in person.
More than just a social gathering, the evening is also a fundraiser supporting MambaOnline’s ongoing work as an independent media voice for South Africa’s LGBTQ+ community for over 25 years. Every rand raised through ticket sales will be matched by The Other Foundation, doubling the impact of each ticket purchased.
Building Community Beyond the Digital Space
For over two decades, MambaOnline has connected LGBTQ+ South Africans through journalism, storytelling and digital community engagement. Now, the organisation is expanding that mission into physical space — creating an environment where people can meet face-to-face, exchange ideas and strengthen meaningful professional and creative networks.
“MambaOnline has always been about creating visibility, connection and community,” said founder Luiz De Barros. “During Pride Month especially, it feels important to move beyond celebration and into action — to create real spaces where queer people can meet, collaborate and build opportunity together. This event is about exactly that, while also helping sustain independent LGBTQ+ media in South Africa.”
The event arrives at a time when many LGBTQ+ South Africans continue to face exclusion, discrimination and shrinking community spaces, making opportunities for visibility, empowerment and solidarity more urgent than ever.
Sylvester Chauke to Headline Inaugural Event
Adding to the excitement is award-winning brand strategist, entrepreneur and industry maverick Sylvester Chauke, who will headline the inaugural event as guest speaker.
In an intimate conversation, Chauke will reflect on his journey navigating the corporate and creative worlds as an openly queer African man — and how he built success, influence and leadership without compromising his authenticity.
“MambaOnline has always told the stories of our community, but this event allows us to physically bring people together in the same room,” said MambaOnline Managing Editor Nompilo Gwala. “Hosting it during Pride Month makes it even more meaningful — it’s a reminder that queer visibility is not only something we celebrate, but something we actively build through connection, opportunity and shared experience.”
An Evening of Connection, Inspiration and Celebration
Hosted at the New York-inspired Naked Woolf venue in Rosebank, the evening promises a vibrant atmosphere of networking, conversation and celebration.
Guests will receive a complimentary welcome drink and canapés, while a DJ will set the tone for a relaxed and social evening. A cash bar will also be available throughout the event.
Organisers hope the Queer Business Networking Social will become a regular fixture on Johannesburg’s LGBTQ+ social and professional calendar — fostering mentorship, collaboration, business growth and stronger community ties.
At its heart, the event celebrates queer excellence, authentic leadership and the power of visibility — especially during a month dedicated globally to Pride.
Event Details
MambaOnline Queer Business Networking Social
📍 The Naked Woolf, Rosebank, Johannesburg
📅 Thursday, 18 June 2026 (International Pride Month)
⏰ 18:00 – 22:00
🎟️ Tickets: R150 via Quicket (includes welcome drink and canapes)
Tickets available here: https://www.quicket.co.za/events/376027-mambaonline-queer-business-networking-social/
