Sheriff Mothopeng is a transgender man, archaeologist, and leading advocate for LGBTIQ rights and inclusive public health in Southern Africa. With over a decade of experience driving community-led advocacy, Sheriff has worked extensively with The People’s Matrix and other human rights organizations to confront discrimination and push for equitable, data-driven health responses.

Holding a BA in Gender Studies and Cultural Heritage from the National University of Lesotho, alongside specialized training in Public Policy, Governance, and Social Justice, Sheriff combines academic grounding with lived expertise. He has led pioneering trans-specific research in the region and managed the development of the African Youth SRHR Scorecard—a key accountability tool for marginalized communities.

Sheriff’s work spans policy, movement-building, and storytelling. His leadership in award-winning documentaries The Man in Me and I Am Sheriff brought trans visibility to global platforms. He’s engaged in UPR processes, submitted shadow reports at the UNHRC, and helped establish trans organizations where none existed.

Currently, Sheriff serves as Africa Senior Regional Officer for the Global Equality Caucus (East Africa and Commonwealth Lead) and as a Capacity Strengthening Officer with Pan Africa ILGA. He brings a critical voice to conversations on aging, vulnerability, and what it takes to build sustainable, inclusive health systems.