The age of consent in South Africa is 16 years old, regardless of sexual orientation and/or gender, as specified by sections 15 and 16 of the Criminal Law (Sexual Offences and Related Matters) Amendment Act (2007) . However, if the older person is in a position of power or authority over the younger person (e.g. a teacher at their school, or their youth worker, step parent, boss, religious leader, sports coach, etc.), then the age of consent is 18. It is important to note that even if someone is of age to have sex, it doesn’t mean that they have given their full consent, and it is still unlawful to engage in sexual activity with someone who is under 17.