Martin Smith is not just an advocate—he is a movement. A fearless, unapologetic voice rising out of Nelson Mandela Bay. Martin is breaking barriers and challenging systems in the fight for LGBTQIA+ equality, visibility, and human rights. As a driving force behind NMB Pride, he is known for turning pain into purpose and passion into powerful action. Whether he’s uplifting LGBTQIA+ Members,youth, mobilizing communities, or creating spaces where people can Be boldly and authentically, Martin shows up—loud, proud, and unstoppable. His vision is bigger than the moment: building a future where safety, dignity, and opportunity are not privileges, but rights—including the creation of a safe house for the most vulnerable. Martin Smith doesn’t wait for change. He creates it. He leads it. He is it.

Jessica Kable is the newly elected Secretary of NMBPride, bringing academic rigor and organizational expertise to the role. She holds a BA in English Literature and Psychology and an Honours degree in Psychology, and is currently a Master’s candidate in Psychology at Rhodes University. Her academic focus equips her with strong analytical and communication skills, while her experience as an educator and community organizer ensures precision in managing records, correspondence, and organizational processes. Jessica is committed to advancing NMBPride’s mission with professionalism, inclusivity, and a dedication to fostering meaningful community engagement.

Sithembiso Gongqa is an emerging African queer cultural voice, activist, and community connector advancing LGBTQIA+ visibility, dignity, and representation. They serve as Liaison Officer for Nelson Mandela Bay Pride, strengthening connections across communities to ensure Pride drives meaningful change. As an International Sounding Board Member for WorldPride Amsterdam 2026, they bring African queer perspectives to global dialogue. Sithembiso is also the founder and Executive Creative Director of Azania Reign, uplifting diverse queer identities through art and storytelling, while advocating for social justice through Global Citizen. Through bold leadership and creativity, they continue to amplify African queer voices on both local and global stages.

Siv Greyson is an Autistic, Afrikan, and transgender liberatory scholar whose work is grounded in unlearning and dismantling systems of domination. Trained in Social Anthropology, Sociology, and Gender Studies, much of their knowledge is rooted beyond the lecture hall—in lived experience, activism, and critical engagement. Their work confronts ableism, racism, patriarchy, capitalism, cisheteronormativity, fatphobia, and xenophobia. Since graduating, sivgreyson has centred their activism on queer and transgender rights. In 2022, they served as the first Gender and Sexual Diversity Advocate within the Deanery of the Faculty of Health Sciences at UCT. They have since continued as a freelance researcher and facilitator, including co-researching a Position Paper on Gender-Affirming Healthcar. Siv is currently pursuing a Masters in Gender Studies at Nelson Mandela University in Gqeberha.

Gert Claassen-Smit is a passionate LGBTQIA+ advocate and public figure dedicated to driving visibility, inclusion, and social change. Crowned Mr Gay Nation SA 2024, he continues to represent South Africa on global platforms as Mr Gay World South-Africa 2025 and Mr Gay World Tourism 2025. Gert serves as a board member for Pretoria Pride and holds the role of World Pride Co-Chair, where he plays an active part in shaping inclusive spaces and amplifying diverse voices. He is deeply committed to creating safe spaces for the LGBTQIA+ community and uses his platform to uplift and empower others. As a dedicated GBV activist, Gert raises awareness and advocates for safer, more equitable communities for all.