Rare Diseases South Africafounded in 2013 by Kelly du Plessis. Founded out of personal need after the diagnosis of Kelly’ son, it quickly became evident that there was a lack of support and awareness on rare diseases in South Africa. RDSSA was established as a voluntary association of persons, and registered with Department of Social Development (NPO 120-991). The intention of this association was to be a support group for rare disease patients, and governed by the founding constitution. In its short lifespan, RDSSA went through phenomenal growth, with an ever-increasing patient base. In 2016, the decision was made to change the name from Rare Disease Society of South Africa to Rare Diseases South Africa, and to amend the voluntary association of persons to a registered NPC. The Board of Directors include individuals representing different sectors of the economy and people impacted by rare diseases. The organisation is currently managed on a day-to-day basis by a CEO, who is assisted by selected external consultants. About Us Rare Diseases South Africa, formerly the Rare Disease Society of South Africa, was founded in 2013 by Kelly du Plessis. Founded out of personal need after the diagnosis of Kelly’ son, it quickly became evident that there was a lack of support and awareness on rare diseases in South Africa. RDSSA was established as a voluntary association of persons, and registered with Department of Social Development (NPO 120-991). The intention of this association was to be a support group for rare disease patients, and governed by the founding constitution. In its short lifespan, RDSSA went through phenomenal growth, with an ever-increasing patient base. In 2016, the decision was made to change the name from Rare Disease Society of South Africa to Rare Diseases South Africa, and to amend the voluntary association of persons to a registered NPC.