Originally founded in 2000 as the Intersex Society of South Africa (ISOSA) by Sally Gross, Intersex South Africa (ISSA) came into being in 2008, when Sally renamed the organisation. After Sally’s death in 2014, ISSA was housed by Iranti, founded in 2012 until it became a separate organisation in May 2023. ISSA advocates for the rights, dignity, and well-being of intersex individuals in South Africa and raises awareness, challenges stigma, and promotes inclusivity.

According to their website,

“ISSA seeks to contribute towards the creation of a world where being intersex variations are not seen as conditions, disorders or abnormalities but rather naturally occurring variations that are part of human diversity. We envision an inclusive and diverse South Africa where the human rights of intersex people are respected, protected and affirmed. A world world where the birth of an intersex child is celebrated like any other birth and where intersex people have the power and control over the decisions that affect their lives.

ISSA works to transform our communities into places where intersex people can freely make decisions without fear, force or coercion; whether they want to undergo any medical procedure or not. A society where all intersex persons are recognised as full citizens, enjoying their human rights and having access to quality and affirming health, education, counselling, employment, legal and social services and opportunities.”

Vision

To raise awareness of intersex issues in South Africa, and to promote the rights to bodily autonomy and integrity of all intersex persons.

Objectives

ISSA

  • works at advancing the human rights of intersex persons at national level, and at regional and global level through collaborations
  • raises awareness of intersex issues nationally through a variety of methods such as media, internet-based platforms, events, campaigns, research, publications, etc.
  • provides support, information and advice to intersex persons and their guardians.
  • provides intersex-related technical assistance, education, training and advice to key stakeholders such as healthcare providers, teachers, policy makers, NHRIs, etc.
  • engages in legal and policy review, reform and drafting for the development on an enabling environment for the human rights of intersex persons.
  • engages in movement building, strategic partnerships and cross-movement learning and reflection.

Focus Areas

  • Organising and strengthening ourselves
  • Movement building for change
  • Visibility, knowledge generation and information sharing
  • Capacity strengthening for key stakeholders and institutional change

Contact

Email: intersexsa@gmail.com
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ISSA’s Dimakatso ‘Garfield’ Sebidi, who sadly passed in 2025
ISSA’s Garfield Sebidi sadly passed in 2025. Iranti, the organisation which housed ISSA following Sally Gross’ death and until ISSA became a separate organisation in 2023, shared this message about Garfield:

“It is with great sadness that we have learnt of the passing of Dimakatso ‘Garfield’ Sebidi, who was a trailblazing advocate. Over the past decade, Garfield courageously championed intersex rights, shattering stigma and inspiring a generation of activists. Iranti is fortunate to have worked with them on numerous projects, where they shared their passion for the advocacy of intersex rights. Our heartfelt condolences to the Sebidi family, friends and the intersex community who have lost a true hero whose efforts have transformed countless lives. May Garfield forever live on in our hearts. You can read their work, titled Diary of a Proud Intersex Person or watch their video on the importance of ending IGM below.”