Iranti is pleased to announce the appointment of Akani Shimange as its new Executive Director. Akani joins Iranti as the world celebrated the International Day against Homophobia, Transphobia, and Biphobia (IDAHOBIT) a few days ago, and as LBQTI people’s rights on the continent are under increased attack. The need for organisations like Iranti to document, engage and resist stigma, violence and discrimination has never been sharper.
Akani, having spent their career working collaboratively to build and strengthen the pan-African trans and gender diverse movement, also brings a strong background in human rights advocacy, movement-building, programme leadership and community engagement.
Akani has demonstrated a deep commitment to advancing the rights of marginalised communities, strengthening community-led responses and building partnerships that create meaningful and lasting impact. Their leadership reflects the values that have long shaped Iranti’s work: amplifying community voices, documenting lived realities, promoting social justice and defending the rights and freedoms of LBQTI people across the region.
As Executive Director, Akani will lead Iranti through a period of strategic consolidation and growth: strengthening sustainability, developing Iranti’s next strategic plan, and expanding strategic partnerships locally, regionally and globally with a focus on broadening the organisation’s impact. This includes continuing Iranti’s work documenting human rights violations, supporting LBQTI people and movements, storytelling, advocacy and community-centred approaches to justice and equality.
Speaking on the appointment, the Board of Directors expressed confidence in Akani’s leadership and vision for the organisation.
“Akani brings thoughtful leadership, strong movement experience and a deep understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing LBQTI communities today. We are excited to welcome them to Iranti and look forward to this new chapter for the organisation.”
Akani Shimange said, “The measure of a movement isn’t whether it survives hostility, but whether it keeps choosing to grow in the middle of it. Appointing new leadership while the ground is shaking is itself an act of defiance”.
Iranti invites partners, donors, collaborators and community members to engage with and support the organisation as it continues to build bold, community-led responses to inequality, exclusion and violence.
To explore collaboration, make a contribution or request further information, contact Akani directly at director@iranti.org.za or the Iranti Board at board@iranti.org.za.