WORKING FOR A PROTECTED , STRONG QUEER COMMUNITY

Our Story

We are resilient LGBTQ Ethiopians and Eritreans who, for years, have worked independently to provide emotional, financial, and health support to our younger LGBTQ siblings. However, after years of individual efforts, we recognized the strength in unity and embarked on a journey to fight for justice and equality.

We chose the name "Qelemat," meaning "Colours" in Geez (Ancient Ethiopian & Eritrean Language) symbolizing the diverse identity within our organization. Its founders comprises a transgender woman, a gay man, a lesbian, and a bisexual man. Leading our organization is Ethiopia's first openly transgender woman, Daniella Desalegn (DD).

Vision

We envision a future where social justice is achieved for young people of any gender and sexuality. Our ultimate goal is a day when gender and sexuality are not barriers to the health and wellness of young people of Ethiopia and Eritrea, and HIV is neither stigmatized nor a threat.

Policy

It's our strong belief that positive change within Ethiopian society can only come from promoting constructive dialogue, raising awareness, and adopting a non-confrontational approach. Recognizing the religious and conservative norms, our goal is to act as a bridge between the LGBTQ and straight communities.

Through education, engagement with religious and community leaders, and the creation of safe spaces, we aim to encourage a society that embraces diversity, allowing everyone to live and let live harmoniously.

Promoting Dialogue

Our organization encourages the Ethiopian/Eritrean LGBTQ community to engage in meaningful conversations that empower them to share their experiences, concerns, and aspirations freely. By creating safe spaces for dialogue, we aim to break down societal stigmas and challenge discriminatory attitudes. Through open discussions, we hope to inspire a sense of community and solidarity, facilitating mutual understanding and acceptance.

• Educational Resources
• Advocacy

Strong Community

We believe in community, and our efforts are directed towards fostering connections that empower individuals to grow collectively. We provide platforms to connect, form friendships, and build networks of support. These spaces serve as avenues for shared experiences, enabling individuals to find common ground and strength in unity. By nurturing a sense of belonging, we aim to counteract feelings of isolation that may arise due to societal discrimination.

• Mentoring
• Support Network

Health & Well-Being

We provide a range of online educational resources designed to inform and empower the LGBTQ community on critical aspects of their health, including sexual health, HIV/STI awareness, and mental well-being. Our visually engaging materials serve as accessible guides, ensuring that individuals have the information they need to make informed decisions about their sexual, mental and physical well-being.

• Sexual Health Education
• Mental Well-being