Dear Staff and Student Colleagues 
 
I am excited to welcome Chanté Arab, who was appointed as Gender and Sexual Diversity Advocate as of 18 May 2023. With their background in psychology and experience in working with marginalised communities, Chanté will play a crucial role in contributing towards a more inclusive, welcoming, safe, and responsive environment for our staff and students. Welcome to our Faculty community and I look forward to working with you. 

Chanté Arab completed their Bachelor of Arts in Humanities and went on to complete their Honours in Psychology at Stellenbosch University (SU). They served on various institutional committees and worked with numerous NGOs throughout their studies, specifically in the line of transformation and LGBTQIA+ rights and well-being. To this end, Chanté has served SU society QueerUS as chair 2019/2020, SU SRC Transformation Committee 2020/2022, Higher Health's HIV/AIDS campaign as student leader and HIV counsellor and tester as well as speaking on multiple panels and presenting many workshops. Chanté’s journey within student leadership developed and encouraged their passion for working with students and within education. This passion, combined with their background in psychology and closely held values of inclusivity, empathy, education, and change has driven them to do extensive work with and for marginalised communities. With this background, they strive to empower queer and transgender communities while being intersectional in their approach. 
 
Congratulations on this appointment, Chanté. You join a team which is deeply committed to this very important role in our Faculty. I look forward to your contribution to our efforts toward fostering a more inclusive and supportive community. 
 
Kaise ke gangans
Associate Professor Lionel Green-Thompson
Dean: Faculty of Health Sciences