Standing up to bullies

As Americans urge President Barack Obama to don purple in recognition of Spirit Day tomorrow, local celebrities are trying to get the anti-bullying movement off the ground in South Africa.

Around the world people wear purple on the day in support of the fight against the bullying of lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender youth.

Thanks to the punting of the event by the likes of media mogul Oprah and former basketball star Shaquille O'Neal, the day has taken off.

The US's National Basketball Association, Major League Soccer, the New York Stock Exchange, Times Square and social network giant Facebook have joined the cause.

In South Africa, co-ordinator Mika Stefano has roped in Jamali singer Mariechan Luiters, models Lerato Kganyago, Celeste Khumalo, Tshego Seakgoe and Reeva Steenkamp, former Big Brother Africa's Lerato Sengadi, Generations actor Anga Makubalo, openly gay personalities Sade Giliberti, Bujy, Koyo Bala, Amstel, and DJ Olwee, and TV presenters Lalla Hirayama, Dineo Moeketsi and Sthembiso "SK" Khoza to promote the day.

Khoza said he had family and friends who were homosexual and he had been bullied at school.

"I also know a lot of people in this industry who are scared to pursue certain dreams because they are afraid of society treating them differently."

Stefano said: "We really want to make this event our own."