The Fruit Basket (TFB), founded in 2016, is a trans- and migrant-led organisation based in Johannesburg South Africa. The organisation was founded by Thomars Shamuyarira, a trans migrant from Zimbabwe. TFB is a a Non-Profit Organisation that works to advance the welfare and rights of LGBTQI+ migrants, refugees, and asylum seekers who come to South Africa seeking protection. TFB hopes to have representatives in all countries that host LGBTQI+ migrants, refugees, and asylum seekers.
Context
From their website:
“The rights of LGBTQI+ persons on the African continent are severely constrained, leading many to leave their countries of birth and seek sanctuary elsewhere. South Africa is one of the few countries globally that grants refugee status on the basis of sexual orientation and gender identity, the system, however, does not work as it’s supposed to and many LGBTQI+ migrants, refugees, and asylum seekers find themselves undocumented. Without proper documentation, they cannot find employment or gain access to services and programs. The Fruit Basket helps restore the dignity of this marginalized community through assistance with the documentation process and information, skills development training, relief work, and, also working as a referral system, connecting the community with different service providers. We fight and will continue to fight for our region to be inclusive, where everyone regardless of nationality, immigration status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or beliefs has access to quality healthcare, meaningful education, and employment in their host country.”
Vision
To advocate and create a society and environment that allows for access to all services that are available to LGBTIQ+ migrants, asylum seekers, and refugees to be able to live up to their full potential and well-being.
Mission
To promote equality and opportunities in a safe and secure environment for LGBTIQ+ migrants, asylum seekers, and refugees.
Values
- To respect the gender, cultural and religious differences of all LGBTIQ+ migrants, asylum seekers, and refugees.
- To be focused on the needs of all LGBTIQ+ migrants, asylum seekers, and refugees.
- To keep absolute confidentiality on all matters relating to all LGBTIQ+ migrants, asylum seekers, and refugees.
Media
Thomars wrote an article for MambaOnline about refugees and the need for their inclusion in conversations about LGBTQI+ rights. Thomars is one of the founders of the Queer & Trans Refugee Advisory Network, formed in 2024.
Thomars was also interviewed by MambaOnline about his story and advocacy.
Contact
Website
+270642157577
Email: info@thefruitbasket.co.za
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