South African transgender activist, media personality, and artist Yaya Mavundla will host the Global Black Pride Opening Ceremony in Paris. She's also co-hosting the Black Excellence Awards Gala alongside ballroom legend Vinni Revlon.

Global Black Pride Paris happens September 9–13, 2026, bringing together Black LGBTQI+ communities, artists, activists, and allies from Africa and worldwide for a week celebrating Black queer culture and excellence.

"Hosting Global Black Pride in Paris is deeply personal for me," Mavundla says. "I come from a continent where Black LGBTQI+ people have had to fight to be seen and heard. Standing on that stage as a South African Black trans woman isn't just a career moment—it's visibility for the women and communities who came before me, those beside me, and the generations coming after us."

This continues the festival's tradition of featuring prominent cultural figures. The 2024 Atlanta edition included Billy Porter, Yemi Alade, and Omawumi.

The Black Excellence Awards Gala celebrates Black LGBTQI+ artists, innovators, and cultural leaders shaping contemporary culture. 2026 nominees include Billy Porter, Zanele Muholi, Kiddy Smile, Law Roach, Rich Mnisi, Doechii, Kehlani, Amaarae, Ludmilla, and Shygirl.

"Yaya's artistry, leadership, and unwavering commitment to the dignity and visibility of trans and gender-diverse communities make her an extraordinary voice for this historic gathering," says Michael Ighodaro, President of Global Black Pride Paris.

"Black queer excellence is not a niche story. It's part of the cultural story of the world," Mavundla says. "We're creating music, shaping fashion, building movements, and influencing culture. This gala lets us say: look at what our people have created, what we've survived, and what we're building."