Social Health and Empowerment Youth Initiative (SHEYI) advocates for the rights and well-being of rural indigenous transgender youth women and gender-diverse youth in southwestern Uganda. Their project, Keeping the Doors Open and Building Support for Rural Transgender Youth Women and Gender Diverse Youth, aims to provide emergency shelter, advocacy, and capacity-building programs to protect and empower this marginalized community.
The organization addresses the deep-rooted gender inequalities faced by rural transgender youth through leadership development, economic empowerment, and access to essential services. Their initiatives include psychosocial support, human rights education, and health service referrals, ensuring their members receive the care and opportunities they deserve. SHEYI also engages landlords, local authorities, and religious leaders to promote understanding and reduce discrimination.
While already providing shelter, life essentials, and counseling, SHEYI also plans to establish a 24-hour crisis hotline, ensuring safety and dignity for rural indigenous transgender youth women and gender-diverse youth in Uganda.
