Why I fled Zambia, moved to Canada as Refugee, and became Gay activist & Started EQUALi
1995: A Unique Beginning
I was born intersex in Zambia 🇿🇲, a time and place where identities like mine were rarely understood or accepted. Growing up with this unique experience taught me resilience early on and sparked my lifelong commitment to authenticity.
2010: Finding Safety and Self-Discovery
At 15, my life changed when I was kicked out of my parents’ home due to my sexuality. I had started realizing i was different. I moved in with a friend, Raquel, who offered me a safe place. It was also around this time that I began connecting with others in the LGBTQ+ community and discovering more about who I was, eventually opening up to friends and family about my identity.
2017: Exile and New Beginnings
Due to my sexuality, I was forced to leave Zambia and blacklisted, cutting me off from my home. Seeking safety, I moved to South Africa on January 12 and applied for asylum, hoping to find acceptance and a new beginning.
2018: Life in South Africa as Gay refugee. Facing Homophobia, Fueling Activism
While most people were welcoming, I also faced intense homophobia and discrimination, which, while painful, fueled my passion for activism. This challenging environment strengthened my resolve to fight for LGBTQ+ rights and support others who faced similar struggles.
2019: Asylum rejection, Public Advocacy & International Attention
My asylum claim in South Africa was rejected, but my story gained widespread attention across African media. Appearing in major newspapers and on TV allowed me to use my voice on a larger platform, expanding my work with organizations like the UNHCR and amplifying my advocacy for LGBTQ+ rights.
2022: Leading Pride & New Hope in Canada
I led Johannesburg Pride, also known as the Pride of Africa: one of the largest LGBTQ+ events on the continent. Later that year, with the help of UN, the Canadian government confirmed my asylum, offering me the opportunity to rebuild my life in a safer environment.
2023: Moving to Canada as Refugee, starting organisation for LGBTQ migrants
I arrived in Canada as Refugee in March 2023 and soon after founded The Queer & Trans Migrant Advocacy Alliance in Windsor-Essex. Our mission is to transform Canada into a sanctuary for LGBTQI+ migrants, providing resources and support to help them live freely and safely.
2024: Launching EQUALi
This year, I launched EQUALi, an apparel brand rooted in the idea that visibility is powerful. My journey as an activist has shown me that every symbol we wear and every story we share helps normalize our presence. This brand is about creating everyday symbols of pride that empower our community and spark meaningful conversations.