At HERe NI, their mission is to create spaces where LGBTQIA+ women can connect, express themselves, and foster their mental and emotional well-being. Through the Elevate Project, they supported two distinct groups of women, each facing unique challenges but united by their experiences as LGBTQIA+ individuals. Our "Let It Out" group (ages 30+) and the newly formed Young Women's Group (ages 18-25) engaged in creative and therapeutic activities designed to boost self-esteem, mental health, and resilience.
Older Women’s Group: Building Confidence Through Creative Expression
The older women’s group, a longstanding part of HERe NI, was ideal for piloting this project. Limited to 15 participants for a more personalised experience, the group eagerly participated in activities to improve mental health and self-esteem. We began with a group drum circle, which fostered trust and community. Subsequent sessions included dance, pottery, and Tai Chi. Dance and movement relieved stress and improved group dynamics, while pottery allowed for positive self-representations. Tai Chi introduced mindfulness practices that helped manage stress and promote inner peace. Participants reported feeling more confident and connected. One said, “This programme has increased my confidence and helped me make fantastic relationships. I feel part of something important.” Another participant shared, “This programme has been life-changing.”
Young Women’s Group: Empowerment Through Visual Art
The Young Women's Group, consisting of 10 participants, focused on visual art and self-expression. The highlight was a quilt-making project that explored identity and LGBTQIA+ issues. Participants learned about the radical history of quilts as protest and activism, then contributed patches representing their personal struggles and resilience. One participant reflected, “Making the quilt helped me understand my place in the world and the power of our voices.” The quilt became a tool for advocacy, with plans to present it at the 2025 International Women’s Day Rally, accompanied by a magazine sharing their stories.
Broader Impact: Building a Stronger Community
The Elevate Project's impact extended beyond the 48 direct participants, benefiting over 60 others in the community. By collaborating with local organisations like Show Some Love and Vault Studios, we strengthened community ties and created new opportunities for women to connect. Participants gained confidence and skills that allowed them to engage more actively in their communities. For example, older group members contributed to a women's health action plan with Queen’s University Belfast. In the young women’s group, creating the quilt sparked a desire to continue advocating for LGBTQIA+ visibility and rights.
Outcomes: Increased Confidence, Skills, and Collective Action
The project led to personal growth and collective empowerment. Through creative arts, therapeutic activities, and community-building, participants developed new skills, increased self-esteem, and gained a deeper understanding of their identities. Many reported feeling more confident in advocating for their rights. As one participant said, “I now have the tools to express myself and stand up for my rights and others.” Both groups formed peer support systems, with the older women’s group continuing independently and the young women’s group planning advocacy campaigns.
Looking Forward: Continuing the Journey
The Elevate Project has had a lasting impact on participants and the wider community. Positive feedback has inspired us to seek additional funding for future programming, ensuring the project’s sustainability. Through continued engagement, we aim to support LGBTQIA+ women’s mental health, promote social justice, and foster inclusion for all. The Elevate Project has demonstrated the power of creativity and community in transforming lives, and we look forward to continuing this vital work.
