Gay Project
Joining Konrad in his mission is Nathan Kelleher, the newly appointed Community Development Worker at Gay Project. With a background in community development and a deep understanding of the challenges facing LGBT+ youth, Nathan is passionate about fostering inclusion and empowerment within the community. “I am excited to be a part of the Gay Project family,” Nathan says. “Through our various programs and initiatives, we strive to create spaces where everyone feels seen, heard, and valued. I’m really looking forward to building my experience and learning from the community in the Community Development Worker role.” Indeed, the work of Gay Project extends far beyond traditional support services. From the GOLD Café, where older gay men gather to socialise and connect, to Rainbow DiverseAbilities, a safe space for members of the LGBT+ community with disabilities and/or neurodiversities, the organisation offers a wide range of opportunities for community engagement and enrichment. One standout initiative is Drag School with Mia Gold, supported by the Cork Education and Training Board. This groundbreaking program aims to enhance Cork’s vibrant drag culture while providing participants with valuable life skills and personal development opportunities. Through Drag School, Gay Project celebrates Cork’s rich history of drag and empowers new drag artists to express themselves authentically and confidently. As Cork gears up for Pride, let us take a moment to honour the remarkable legacy of the many volunteers and activists that dedicated their time to setting up and continuing to grow the Gay Projects service reach to the community. For 40 years, Gay Project volunteers and staff have been at the forefront of the fight for equality and acceptance. As we celebrate their achievements, let us also recommit ourselves to the ongoing struggle for a more inclusive and just society. Here’s to 40 years of pride, progress, and empowerment—and to many more milestones ahead! Gay Project recently launched their Annual Report for 2023 and a Needs Analysis looking at the needs of the community they serve. Both documents can be seen at gayproject.ie/about/reports-accounts-and-publications/
As the vibrant streets of Cork City prepare to burst with colour and celebration for this year’s Cork LGBT+ Pride festivities, there’s an extra special reason for jubilation. Gay Project, one of Ireland’s most esteemed LGBT+ organisations, is commemorating a remarkable milestone: its 40th anniversary since its grassroots beginnings. Amidst the glittering sequins and rainbow flags, it’s a time to reflect on the organisation’s journey, celebrate its achievements, and introduce two individuals who are poised to lead the charge into a new era of empowerment. Founded in 1984, Gay Project emerged from what used to be known as the Cork Lesbian and Gay Community Project during a time when Ireland’s attitudes towards the LGBT+ community were vastly different. Homosexuality was criminalised, and discrimination against LGBT+ individuals permeated society, from housing and employment to access to healthcare and recognition of relationships. But in the face of adversity, Gay Project stood tall, dedicated to advocating for the rights, inclusion and well-being of its community members. “We’ve come a long way in the past 40 years,” reflects Arthur Leahy, one of the organisation’s founding members. “Back then, the landscape was vastly different. But through our advocacy, support, and unwavering dedication, we’ve made significant strides towards a more inclusive and accepting society.” Indeed, the journey has been one of resilience, determination, and progress. From its humble beginnings, Gay Project has evolved into a beacon of hope, providing vital support services, advocating for policy reforms, and building a sense of community and belonging for LGBT+ individuals across Cork City and County. “One of the most significant milestones in recent years has been the granting of Rainbow City status to Cork City. This prestigious recognition acknowledges the city’s commitment to creating a safe, inclusive, and welcoming environment for the LGBT+ community. It’s a testament to the tireless efforts of organisations like Gay Project, LINC, and many others that work closely with Cork LGBTI+ Interagency Group with the support of local authorities and community partners.” - John Buttimer, the Chairperson of Gay Project’s Board. “We are incredibly proud of the progress the Gay Project has made,” - Konrad Im, who recently assumed the role of Manager at Gay Project . “But there is still a lot of work to be done. Our fight for equality and inclusion is far from over. And there is a clear demand and need for various social and sporting based groups for those in the LGBT+ community in tackling isolation and loneliness”. Konrad’s journey with Gay Project shows the great deal of support the Gay Project provides in nurturing future leaders. From his early days as a volunteer leader to his recent appointment as Manager, his dedication to creating a fair and inclusive society has been unwavering. Konrad attributes his development to the support and mentorship he’s received from within the Cork LGBTI+ community. As a former Mr. Gay Cork and Mr. Gay Ireland, Konrad’s journey has been supported through his involvement in UP Cork LGBTI+ Youth Group, MTU Cork LGBT* Society, Sexual Health Centre Cork and Cork LGBT+ Pride Festival which has underscored his commitment to uplifting the voices of LGBT+ individuals. “I am honoured to lead Gay Project into its next chapter,” Konrad remarks . “Together with our dedicated staff, countless volunteers and community partners, we will continue to advocate for equality, support those in need, and celebrate the diversity of our community.”
Of Progress 40 Years
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