Gloria Quaye, She/Her, Ghana
What inspired you to join the AQYI community, and how has your experience been as a member?
I wanted an opportunity to join and become part of a bigger community where the rights of queer persons are protected. Hence, coming across the call for membership allowed me to apply and join. Being a member has been a fantastic experience so far, filled with valuable networking opportunities as I’ve connected with fellow members and learned about their roles as activists within the queer community.
What is the most pressing issue in your community, and why is it urgent?
Currently, the most pressing issue in my community is the lack of adequate information on Rights and responsibilities due to the high illiteracy, safety, and security of queer persons. The Anti-LGBT Bill in parliament caused more harm, fear, and panic among the community members, and a few were not mentioned.
Can you describe any unique cultural or social aspects of your community that people might not be aware of?
One unique cultural aspect is that queer persons have a history in Ghana and Africa, thereby not making the people in my community accept themselves but believing the misinformation from the media that being queer is not African.
A social aspect has to deal with the fact that queer persons do not value formal education so much because they look down upon themselves due to the diversity in their sexuality.
What kind of support or resources would be most beneficial to address the urgent issue in your community?
Firstly, it has to be financial resources, followed by empowerment programs, skills development, and mentoring. The high illiteracy makes it difficult for members of my community to comprehend some simple issues that would benefit them and improve their lives. Providing support on this will help bridge the gaps and give hope to the community since most identify as Indigenous.
Beyond your role as an activist, what hobby or interest might surprise people? How does it help you find balance in life?
An interest that might surprise people is being an animator and a music producer who produces beats and records people who sing. I still enjoy listening to empty beats and sounds, as it helps me calm down when tense and stressed. Just that unfortunately, I haven’t got the support to enable me to nurture these skills within me.
Is there a book, movie, or artwork that deeply impacted how you see social change or identity? What about it connected with you?
A movie I would say impacted how I see identity is MOANA. The film has taught me a lot, from family to community to leadership and personal convictions about one’s inner self and soul. The fact that a young girl had to take leadership roles when she least expected and now becomes the heroine and a leader of a whole community connects with my life journey. I hope to improve life for queer persons within the grassroots and indigenous communities.
Imagine you’re giving a TED Talk on a topic unrelated to activism. What would you talk about, and what message would you want to share with the world?
I would talk about the connection between our Physical and Spiritual life. I will share it with the world to raise awareness that every human being has a spirit, and we can connect to our spirit being to enable us to be at peace and progress.
As a youth leader, what advice would you give to other young individuals who want to impact the African LGBTQI+ community positively?
An advice I would say is to be humble and willing to learn at all times. Always serving your community and being ready to face challenges is essential because a lot will be expected from you. And most importantly, be prayerful to any being you believe in to keep you protected. Lastly, being kind and promoting positive values is essential, enhancing the impact on the LGBTQI+ community.
