Thirteen years ago, my path into activism began. For more than two decades, I had lived in denial, self-contempt, and secrecy because of my sexuality. More than anything, I longed to be heard, seen, and accepted.

So I entered activism for sexual and gender equality — a cause that served not only myself but also many others. It was where the personal and the collective became deeply intertwined. Organising something that speaks to your core is one of the most self-fulfilling things one can do. I was passionate, and I was happy.