OUR APPROACH
Our
& Vision
Our
Mission
Our
Objectives
OUR APPROACH
At Trans Youth Initiative-Uganda (TYI-Uganda), we are driven by a dynamic and inclusive approach that revolves around empowerment, solidarity, and transformative action. TYI-Uganda is led by trans and gender diverse individuals, ensuring that our advocacy for the rights of rural transgender youth women, transgender youth sex workers, and gender diverse youth communities is firmly rooted in lived experiences and shared aspirations.
Feminist Framework
Our foundation rests on the bedrock of a feminist framework. We recognize that transphobia is a deeply ingrained form of violence stemming from patriarchal norms. To counteract this violence, we fervently uphold gender equality as a cornerstone of our work. Our actions are guided by feminist principles that challenge gender inequality and dismantle the structures of oppression against rural transgender youth women, transgender youth sex workers, and gender diverse youth.
Sisterhood and Movement Building
We firmly believe in the power of unity. To fortify our mission, we cultivate sisterhood and build a robust movement. Collaborating with other transgender, womxn and feminist organizations, we amplify our collective voice, fostering solidarity that advocates for, safeguards, and empowers rural transgender youth women, transgender youth sex workers, and gender diverse youth. Through alliances and networks, we transcend boundaries and create a unified force for change.
An Intersectional Approach
Our journey is illuminated by an intersectional approach. Recognizing the multifaceted nature of oppression, we champion inclusivity and equity. With respect to various identities, experiences, and backgrounds, we reject discrimination and uphold a fair, just, and diverse environment. From gender identity to age, religion to disability, we honor and embrace differences, actively contributing to an atmosphere of equal rights and acceptance.
Self-Care, Wellness, and Collective Healing: Nurturing Resilience
To sow the seeds of sustainable change, we prioritize self-care, wellness, and collective healing. We understand that to create lasting impact, we must nurture our own well-being. By cultivating an environment that fosters mental and physical health, we sustain our motivation and compassion. This practice extends to our broader community, as we advocate for accommodating, supportive work environments that encourage personal growth and wellness.
Tailored Safe Spaces
Within our journey, we craft tailored safe spaces where rural transgender youth women, transgender youth sex workers, and gender diverse youth can thrive. These spaces offer security, a platform for authentic self-expression, and an avenue to share challenges. Here, self-esteem flourishes, opportunities expand, and choice is expanded, fostering a nurturing environment where transformation can unfold.
Feminist Leadership Building
Our commitment extends to fostering feminist leadership. Through capacity-building programs, we empower rural transgender youth women, transgender youth sex workers, and gender diverse youth to step into leadership roles. This empowerment amplifies their capacity to influence decisions, ultimately shaping a progressive transgender development agenda. By nurturing leadership, we establish the bedrock for sustainable change and progress.
Nothing About Us Without Us
A resounding maxim guides our approach: "Nothing about us without us." This principle underscores our commitment to meaningful engagement. Rural transgender youth women, transgender youth sex workers, and gender diverse youth are at the heart of our planning, implementation, and evaluation processes. Their input shapes our projects, ensuring that their needs are met innovatively and effectively.
Lead, Challenge, Dismantle: Transforming Structures
Empowerment extends beyond engagement. We are dedicated to dismantling issues that affect our communities. Rural transgender youth women, transgender youth sex workers, and gender diverse youth lead in governance and staffing, challenging existing norms and advocating for transformative change at all levels. By placing their voices at the forefront, we work collectively to break down barriers and construct a future of equality.
Together, we journey toward a future where rural transgender youth women, transgender youth sex workers, and gender diverse youth flourish and thrive, breaking free from the shackles of oppression and rising as beacons of change.
