Excitement was evident on the faces of children during an event hosted by members of the Langa Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer and Intersex (LGBTQI+) community, together with SafeSpace International, at Jordan Ways of Cooking in Langa on Tuesday, 7 April.

More than 100 children gathered at the restaurant to share in some fun during the event.

Speaking on behalf of the Langa LGBTQI+ community, Vinolia Sidukwana described the occasion as a special day dedicated to children.

Acts of Kindness initiative creates safe space

“This is mainly for children. We call it ‘Acts of Kindness’. We don’t have an age limit, all children are welcome. We cook for them, and they play games, dance and have performances as well. We are trying to create a safe space for them,” said Sidukwana.

She explained that the event forms part of giving back to the community and also seeks to change negative perceptions about LGBTQI+ members.

Event aims to change perceptions of LGBTQI+ community

“In most cases, people see us as drunkards. Now we want to demonstrate that there are good things we do in our communities. This is the first time we are hosting such an event in Langa, and we are happy with the turnout,” she said.

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SafeSpace International lead facilitator on parenting, Beverly Dhliwayo, described the event as a fun-filled day.

SafeSpace International is a humanitarian organisation dedicated to creating ecosystems of safety, healing and collective growth for LGBTQI+ displaced persons experiencing migration.

She said the organisation focuses mainly on disadvantaged communities.

“We are trying to spread joy and love to the children. We are showing Ubuntu by assisting those in need,” said Dhliwayo.

Children enjoy games, food and performances

One of the children, Nomhla Xentsa (14), described the event as enjoyable, saying it provided a great opportunity to socialise.