About Us
On 17 May 2017, a beacon of hope and resilience was ignited with the launch of PLUS. This pivotal moment was born out of heartfelt consultations conducted by The Other Foundation, where voices from every corner of the business world came together. They included courageous LGBTI+ business owners, dedicated service providers, and passionate technical specialists—all who shared a vision of a brighter, more inclusive future.
In Southern Africa, LGBTI+ individuals have long faced a painful reality of exclusion and discrimination. The few job opportunities available are often out of reach, and the shadow of workplace bias looms large, leaving many feeling marginalized and voiceless. Yet, amidst this adversity, a powerful truth emerged: some LGBTI+-owned small businesses are not just surviving but thriving. These businesses are beacons of resilience, and others are eager to follow their lead, striving to connect with the LGBTI+ market and build something greater.
The commitment of large companies to embrace diversity and foster LGBTI+ inclusion in their supply chains is a hopeful sign of change. These companies are stepping up, breaking down barriers, and creating spaces where everyone can thrive.
PLUS embodies the essence of international economic development goals that strive for “inclusive economic growth” and vow to “leave no one behind.” It is more than a network; it is a lifeline, a promise, and a movement toward a world where every individual, regardless of their identity, has the opportunity to flourish. The launch of PLUS is not just a milestone—it is a powerful statement that a more inclusive and equitable future is within our grasp
Our long-term vision is to create an economic ecosystem that champions inclusivity and sustainability for the LGBTI+ community. At the heart of this vision is PLUS, our organization dedicated to transforming the South African economic landscape through a series of impactful interventions and programs.
Our approach is multi-faceted and strategic. We offer targeted training programs that equip LGBTI+ businesses with the skills and knowledge to thrive. Our network meetings are designed to expose these businesses to new opportunities, while our diversity and sensitization training helps corporate entities foster more inclusive environments. By focusing on these key areas, we aim to drive immediate benefits for economic inclusivity and lay the groundwork for long-term success.
Our commitment extends beyond short-term gains. We are dedicated to ensuring the sustainability of LGBTI+ businesses by actively lobbying for their interests and empowering our members. Through intense advocacy and capacity-building, we are paving the way for LGBTI+ entrepreneurs to seize local economic opportunities and build robust, adaptable enterprises.
Supporting this ambitious vision is Dean Ebden, one of our founding members and a passionate advocate for economic justice. Dean, a black gay man who has faced and overcome significant barriers, exemplifies the spirit of resilience and determination that fuels PLUS. His diverse business interests—spanning media, hospitality, marketing, and communications—reflect his commitment to excellence and innovation.
Dean’s journey from facing exclusion to becoming a successful entrepreneur underscores his role as a powerful symbol of what LGBTI+ businesses can achieve. His personal experiences and unwavering commitment make him a natural leader and advocate for our cause. Through his guidance, our members gain invaluable insights into how to navigate challenges, remain resilient, and ultimately succeed in their ventures.
We firmly believe that Dean Ebden embodies the essence of our mission and will serve as a dynamic champion for the LGBTI+ community. With his leadership and the collective efforts of our dedicated team, PLUS is poised to make a lasting impact, fostering a more inclusive and prosperous economic landscape for all.
Our Past Partner Collaborators
Plus Business Network Board Profile
Dean Ebden
Director
Founder member of PLUS Business Network, the organisation shall be under the stewardship of Dean whose serial entrepreneurship speaks for itself. He shall be championing innovative programming and fundraising.
Thelma Machogo
Head of Operations and training development
Trained as a management accountant Thelma has been running InFinance Consulting both as Co-Managing Member and Principal Consultant since its establishment in 1996. Worked as Director Arts and Science for British Council Southern Africa holding several board positions in Creative Industries including Market Theatre and SACOD. Thelma received her earlier training through two of the big five firms Deloitte and Ernst & Young. She sits on the boards of Vision2050 (Pty) Ltd, Nasir Investments both Women Investment Holdings Companies, Up Lyft and Deputy Chair of Siyanakhela Imizi Social Housing Institute. She’ll be leading Plus Business Network in Stakeholder Management. Training Strategy Design and Governance
Jabulani (Jabu) Pereira
He, His, Him
Jabu is South African, he was born in 1971 at peak of Apartheid and state oppression against black south Africans. Jabu proudly identifies as an African trans man. In 2012 he founded an organization called Iranti a trans, LBQ and intersex rights regional organization. In the belief that organizations should have a healthy life with its own transitions, Jabu stepped down in 2022 as founding director. Prior to Iranti, Jabu has over 30 years of professional work experience in facilitation, strategy development, human rights and civic movement leadership. Jabu holds a masters degree in the arts from New York University.
Ethan September
Ethan September -An experienced and driven professional with extensive experience in events management, digital marketing, and social media management. Skilled in event planning, customer service, advertising, and training. Proven track record of leading successful projects in the events services industry and currently heading up the prestigious Assegai Awards, showcasing expertise in operational leadership and strategic execution.
Makale Ngwenya
Makale is a highly motivated individual with over ten years’ of demonstrable and practical experience as a researcher, consultant and specialist in a variety of roles in both the public and private sectors. She has a multi-disciplinary educational background in Economics, Development and the Built Environment.
Makale is member of the B-BBEE Presidential Advisory Council which is a legislated body that advises the President and Cabinet on transformation matters, reviews progress and makes policy recommendations. The work of the council mainly deals with cross-cutting Issues and Enablers such as evaluating existing B-BBEE and transformation legislative frameworks and practices; identifying changes that may be required; as well as research, measurement and impact metrics; advocacy, stakeholder/outreach.
Makale works on the National Forestry Advisory Council and advises the Minister of Environment, Forestry and Fisheries on all aspects of forestry in the country including the implementation of the Forestry Master Plan, Decent Work and Transformation. She also serves on Forestry Stewardship Council in the social development chamber.
Will O. Cobbs, Jr.
Dr. Cobbs is an internationally recognized community and clinical health researcher. He has served as manager, lead evaluator and principal investigator on studies and programs throughout the world in clinical and community settings. His expertise is in public health, community mental health, socio-cultural and psychosocial issues within African American and indigenous African populations. He is the Principal at AC Research, Inc. based in Illinois and Maryland, USA. He has over thirty years experience in HIV/AIDS research, program evaluation, community mental health, and statistical methods (qualitative and quantitative). He has worked with over seventy-five community-based, faith-based organizations, clinics and corporations in twelve states, the US Virgin Islands, South Africa and Armenia addressing education, health equity, mental health, substance use and HIV/AIDS. Over the past twenty years, he has served as lead evaluator and/or principal investigator on over twenty US federally funded projects addressing substance use disorders, mental health, homelessness, and HIV/AIDS. He has a unique understanding of community mental health from sociological, theological and public health perspectives. He has earned the following degrees