'Government needs to put pressure on police to assist': Yaya Mavundla on Grindr victims

Yaya Mavundla is on a mission to compel the government to take urgent action against the plight of Grindr victims.

At the 15th annual Feather Awards, the multi-award-winning transgender activist and media personality donned a custom Queer Comfort gown with headlines highlighting Grindr-related incidents.

“We've witnessed a surge in reported cases, yet the perpetrators continue unabated. While some are in custody, many roam freely,” Yaya told TshisaLIVE, emphasising her fashion label's commitment to activism and the pressing issues faced by the LGBTQ+ community.

The dress serves as a statement, making the world aware of the conditions endured by the queer community and urging government attention.

Speaking about the Grindr platform, Yaya admitted she once used the dating application while in Paris, but quickly deleted it after realising she could get herself into trouble while in a foreign country.

“It is unfortunate that they had to go through this trying to find love. The government needs to put pressure on the police to assist victims, and from what we have witnessed and heard from previous victims, the police work with the perpetrators.”

Yaya said she wants to change the lives of other queer individuals. Fusing her passion for fashion with her activism through her clothing line, where 50% of the profits will assist black trans women with access to hormones and education, Yaya said she plans to do more to help make an impact.

“I know why trans people should have access to hormones, having come from that space. There are a lot of young trans people that look up to me ... I find that it's so sad that they are not prioritised, because I believe any medication should be distributed equally.”