Sibonelo Ncanana-Trower

Sibonelo Ncanana-Trower Sibonelo is a South African human-rights activist and community organiser deeply committed to advancing LGBTIQ+ equality, social justice, and inclusive governance. They currently serve as Human Rights Coordinator at OUT LGBT Well-being and as Civil-Society Co-Chair of the National Task Team (NTT) on SOGIESC Matters under the Department of Justice and Constitutional Development. Over the past decade, Sibonelo has led and supported multiple national and provincial initiatives addressing hate crimes, discrimination, and gender-based violence. Their work focuses on improving access to justice for queer communities, building partnerships with government and civil-society actors, and amplifying the voices of marginalised groups through advocacy, training, and community mobilisation. They are also a co-founder and director of Izibuko Zethu, a community-based organisation operating in Gauteng, KwaZulu-Natal, and the Eastern Cape, dedicated to bridging gaps between government and queer communities, equipping youth with skills for empowerment, and promoting inclusive workplaces. Known for their warmth, empathy, and sharp strategic mind, Sibonelo has been instrumental in mobilising collaborations between local CBOs, national networks, and international partners, particularly through their work in the Hate Crimes Working Group and the Eastern Cape LGBTIQ+ Sector. Their activism is rooted in compassion, accountability, and a belief in the transformative power of collective action.