Pema Kenya’s LILO Identity Workshops: Empowering LGBTI Individuals and Promoting Social Inclusion
This year, Pema Kenya hosted a transformative 3 three-day LILO Identity workshops in Mombasa County. The workshops, attended by 42 participants, was designed to explore and deepen the understanding of gender identity, sexual orientation, and the challenges faced by lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and intersex (LGBTI) individuals. Facilitated by Henry Ominde, lead facilitator, and Nelly Chivatsi, support facilitator from Pema Kenya, the workshop aimed to create a space for participants to reflect on their personal identities, confront societal prejudices, and build resilience within a supportive community.
Workshop Overview
LILO Identity, developed by Positive Vibes, is a comprehensive methodology that focuses on providing support for LGBTI individuals by guiding them through a reflective process. The methodology is structured around four key steps: Looking Back to reflect on past experiences, Looking In to explore internal feelings and thoughts, Looking Out to understand the external world around them, and Looking Forward to prepare participants for a positive and empowered future.
The workshop assumed that participants, all members of Pema Kenya, possessed deep personal knowledge and experiences that could be shared to foster mutual support. With a particular focus on the complexities of gender and sexual identity, the LILO Identity process aimed to help individuals unpack their emotions, needs, and desires, while empowering them to make informed decisions about their future paths.
Key Objectives
The LILO Identity workshop had several core objectives aimed at fostering self-empowerment and promoting social justice:
• To guide participants toward a positive LGBTI identity, strengthening their self-concept and fostering a strong sense of pride.
• To encourage participants to integrate their LGBTI identity with their other qualities and roles, recognizing themselves as complex, multifaceted individuals with unique strengths and capabilities.
• To inspire PEMA Kenya members to take charge of their lives, organizations, and movements, strengthening their voices and actions to contribute to the broader goals of social justice, equity, and inclusion.
Key Takeaways
• Embracing Diversity Within the LGBTI Community: The workshop provided a platform for participants to explore the diverse spectrum of experiences within the LGBTI community. With varying sexual orientations, gender identities, and cultural backgrounds, the group engaged in meaningful conversations that fostered greater understanding and acceptance. The participants appreciated the opportunity to connect with others from different walks of life, which helped break down barriers and build a stronger sense of solidarity within the community.
• Navigating Social Stigma: One of the central topics addressed during the workshop was the pervasive stigma and discrimination faced by LGBTI individuals in Kenya. Participants were equipped with valuable resources, coping mechanisms, and strategies for navigating these challenges. The discussions covered important aspects such as legal rights, the importance of support networks, and approaches for cultivating resilience. This knowledge allowed participants to feel more confident in their ability to stand up for their rights and well-being in the face of adversity.
• Building Confidence and Self-Acceptance: Through a combination of interactive exercises, personal storytelling, and group discussions, the workshop provided participants with the tools to reclaim their identities and confront societal narratives. By exploring their personal journeys, participants were encouraged to celebrate their uniqueness and embrace their authentic selves. The process helped individuals gain confidence and strengthen their self-acceptance, laying the groundwork for a positive outlook on their future.
• Finding Strength in Community: The workshop also fostered a sense of shared experience, creating a powerful network of support among participants. By connecting with others who understood their struggles and triumphs, participants were able to develop a sense of belonging and community. This newfound solidarity allowed them to recognize that they were not alone in their experiences and that together, they could build resilience and support one another in their ongoing journeys.
Conclusion
The LILO Identity workshop in Mombasa marked a significant step in Pema Kenya’s ongoing commitment to supporting the LGBTI community in Kenya. By creating a safe space for participants to explore their identities, confront challenges, and connect with others, the workshop empowered individuals to move forward with confidence and a strong sense of self. The insights gained from the workshop are expected to resonate long after its conclusion, as participants continue to strengthen their personal identities and contribute to a more inclusive society. Through initiatives like this, Pema Kenya is fostering a culture of empathy, understanding, and social change, ensuring that LGBTI individuals are supported in their pursuit of equity and acceptance.