The article highlights the traumatic experiences of LGBTQ+ individuals in South Africa, focusing on the harmful effects of conversion practices. It features personal stories of abuse and discrimination, particularly within religious settings. Organizations like Access Chapter 2 and Ashes to Purpose are actively working to protect LGBTQ+ rights and ban conversion practices. The study conducted by Access Chapter 2 reveals that families, religious leaders, and traditional healers are the main perpetrators of these harmful practices. The article calls for more education and legislative action to eradicate conversion practices.

The Mpumalanga police have initiated a manhunt following the violent robbery of 87-year-old Ndebele artist Esther Mahlangu in Siyabuswa. The assailant, who remains at large, attacked Mahlangu in her home, leaving her with facial injuries and stealing her firearm and cash. Police are urging the public to provide any information that could lead to the suspect's arrest. The incident has drawn strong condemnation from Mpumalanga police commissioner Lt Gen Semakaleng Manamela, who emphasized the need for swift justice.

A study by Access Chapter 2, funded by OutRight Action International, found that families are the primary perpetrators of LGBTQI+ conversion practices in South Africa, followed by community members, psychologists, and religious and traditional healers. The study, led by Professor Anthony Brown of the University of Johannesburg, revealed that 43% of participants had sessions with religious representatives, 12% were subjected to corrective rape, and 19% identified religious leaders as perpetrators. Victims, including Lerato Mokou and Nokuthula Dhladhla, shared their traumatic experiences of rape and HIV infection by church leaders, and emotional abuse leading to depression and suicidal thoughts. Traditional healer Sphamandla Gwala emphasized the need for education on homosexuality among healers. The study also highlighted the need for support structures, with 21% seeking help from LGBTQI+ organizations and 57% from friends. Dr. Mmamonstheng 'Dulcy' Rakumakoe of Quadcare noted the distress among transgender individuals facing conversion practices. Canada's recent ban on conversion therapy was praised by Jabu Pereira of Iranti, and Access Chapter 2 aims to work with policymakers to create legislation banning conversion practices.

Tiyane Malukele, a former mechanic, transformed his life by starting a successful burger business named Grub Worx after losing his job due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Leveraging his mechanical skills, he built a mobile burger joint from a Volkswagen car shell. His unique recipes and dedication have earned him a loyal customer base in Soweto, with plans to expand his business into a chain of food trucks.

In the Western Cape, small-scale fishers like Carmen Oquendo Pabón and Val Arendse face declining fish stocks and increased competition from large, subsidized vessels, leading many to resort to illegal fishing. Government subsidies are criticized for favoring large-scale operations, exacerbating overfishing and illegal activities. Experts and community leaders call for phased withdrawal of harmful subsidies and better support for small-scale fishers to ensure sustainable fishing practices and social justice.