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CELEBRATING A NEW ERA OF INCLUSIVITY AND REPRESENTATION

By Modern Community Foundation

01 June 2024

                                (Steve Letsike- Deputy minister of women, youth and persons with dis-Abilities)

In a historic move, the appointment of Steve Letsike as the new Deputy Minister of Women, Youth, and Persons with Dis-Abilities marks a significant step forward for South Africa. This milestone achievement demonstrates the country's commitment to inclusivity and representation, paving the way for a brighter future for all marginalised communities.

The appointment signals a new era of leadership, one that prioritises the rights and empowerment of women, youth, and persons with dis-Abilities. It is a testament to the progress made in the fight for equality and a reminder that there is still much work to be done.

For decades, the LGBTQIAP2S+ community has faced discrimination, violence, and exclusion. Through tireless efforts and advocacy, significant strides have been made. The legalisation of same-sex marriage in 2006 and the adoption of the National Intervention Strategy on Human Rights based on SOGIESC in 2016 are notable examples of progress.

Similarly, advancements in women's rights and youth empowerment have been crucial. Efforts to close the gender gap in education, employment, and political representation continue to make headway. The appointment of Steve Letsike is another step towards ensuring that the voices of young people and women are heard and respected at all levels of government.

The I AM ME conference, held at the Marriott Hotel on April 15, 2024, where Steve Letsike was a key speaker, served as a powerful reminder of the progress made and the work still to be done. The conference brought together individuals from diverse backgrounds to share their experiences, challenges, and triumphs. The event was a celebration of identity, resilience, and community, highlighting the importance of inclusivity and representation. It served as a call to action, urging attendees to continue fighting for their rights and challenging the status quo.


                                                                 (Steve Letsike at the I AM ME conference)

The appointment of Steve Letsike as the new Deputy Minister is a victory for the LGBTQIAP2S+ community, women, and the youth, but it also serves as a reminder of the ongoing struggles faced by all marginalised communities. There is still much work to be done to address systemic inequalities and discrimination. 

Discrimination, violence, and hate crimes continue to affect marginalised communities, and there is an urgent need for action. The new Deputy Minister's leadership will be instrumental in driving change. This milestone achievement demonstrates that change is possible when we work together towards a common goal. It is a testament to the power of activism and advocacy.

The new era of leadership marks a significant shift in the country's approach to human rights and social justice. It is a commitment to creating a more just and equitable society. The appointment is a victory for human rights and a reminder that everyone deserves to be treated with dignity and respect. It is a call to action, urging us all to continue fighting for a brighter future.



The progress made is a testament to the power of collective action and advocacy. It demonstrates that when we work together, we can achieve great things. The new Deputy Minister's leadership will be instrumental in shaping a brighter future for all. It is a reminder that everyone deserves a chance to thrive and reach their full potential.

In addition to the strides made for the LGBTQIAP2S+ community, women, and the youth, it is essential to recognise the intersectional nature of the challenges faced by marginalised communities. Women who are also part of the LGBTQIAP2S+ community or who have dis-Abilities often face compounded discrimination. The appointment of Steve Letsike provides an opportunity to address these intersecting issues more comprehensively.

Furthermore, the youth of South Africa have been at the forefront of many social justice movements, advocating for change and demanding a better future. From climate action to economic equality, young people have shown that they are not only the leaders of tomorrow but also the leaders of today. 

The empowerment of women remains a critical focus. Despite significant progress, gender-based violence and economic disparities continue to affect many women across the country. Comprehensive strategies and robust implementation of existing policies are needed to create a safer and more equitable environment for all women. Steve Letsike's leadership will be pivotal in driving these efforts forward.

As the new Deputy Minister, Steve Letsike is also expected to champion the rights of persons with dis-Abilities. This group often faces significant barriers in accessing education, employment, and public services. By prioritising accessibility and inclusivity, the new leadership can help dismantle these barriers and ensure that persons with dis-Abilities have equal opportunities to participate fully in society.

The appointment of Steve Letsike is a victory for human rights and a reminder that everyone deserves to be treated with dignity and respect. It is a call to action, urging us all to continue fighting for a brighter future. This milestone achievement demonstrates that change is possible when people work together towards a common goal. 



The future looks bright, and the possibilities are endless. With the new Deputy Minister's leadership, South Africa is poised to make even greater strides towards a more just, equitable, and inclusive society. It is up to everyone to continue fighting for a world where everyone, regardless of their gender, age, dis-Ability, or sexual orientation, can thrive and reach their full potential.

In conclusion, the appointment of Steve Letsike as the new Deputy Minister of Women, Youth, and Persons with Dis-Abilities is a historic moment that marks a significant step forward for South Africa. It is a testament to the power of activism and advocacy and a reminder that everyone deserves to be treated with dignity and respect. This milestone achievement paves the way for a brighter future, one that is more inclusive and equitable. 

Congratulations to Steve Letsike, and may her occupancy be marked by continued progress and unwavering commitment to human rights and social justice.

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CENTRIC INSIGHTS

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