FEATURE A pioneer of SA same-sex marriage Sue Welman – 1st to write and pass exam April 02, 2007 Sue Welman was the first person in SA to write and pass the exam as prescribed by Home Affairs to perform same-sex marriages and civil unions. Sue collected her register at the Pretoria offices on Monday the 26th of March granting her with official rights to perform these marriages and civil unions. It was an exam that did not come easy and it took a lot of persistence and determination to get the training manual and then a date to eventually write the exam. Gay marriages became legal in South Africa from the 1st of December 2006 making South Africa the first African country to legalize gay marriages. Because of the new act, ministers that wish to perform gay marriages have to pass an exam to grant them with a licence to perform same-sex marriages. The minister of Home Affairs did make several political appointments at the beginning of the legislation and these candidates did not need to write the exam. But Sue is not a stranger to new beginnings. She’s been committed to the struggle for gay and lesbian human rights since the early 90's. Initially as a public religious voice in the battle for constitutional recognition and later on in the application of these rights in practice (eg, recognition of partners on medical aids and pension benefits). Being a hopeless romantic, Sue has always been committed to the rights of people of the same sex to marry and have equal status as married couples. Sue Welman was also part of the start-up project team of the Baby-ventures website and a great source of inspiration. As a pioneer for the equality of all gay and lesbian people, she was one of the first in line to offer any advice needed. Sue Welman as a person is a modest and devoted woman that enjoys spending time with her partner and 2 dogs. She performs weddings and christenings as per the couple’s style and requirements. Her gentle and angelic nature brings harmony to your special day. Should you want to get hold of Sue, contact Lisa – Issued by Baby-ventures Related features South Africa approves same-sex marriage Gay marriage and parental rights in South Africa