Who Is
Anold?
Anold Mulaisho (they/them) is an LGBTIQ+ refugee activist, model, and healthcare giver, who has worked as a Research Assistant at the University of Witwatersrand, Centre of Immigration. He is interested in research on queer migrants, asylum seekers, and refugees, focusing specifically on issues of documentation, shelter, and accessing sexual and reproductive health services. He has worked with asylum seekers from Kenya, Zambia, Nigeria, and other parts of Africa.
These are countries that criminalize any same-sex activity or relations with severe punishment, such as death and imprisonment. He has liaised with NGOs to connect LGBTIQ+ migrants and asylum seekers to services, such as food, clothing, accommodation, legal aid, counseling, and other needs.
Our Mission Statement
He started “The Queer & Trans Migrant Advocacy Alliance of Windsor-Essex County" which is committed to fostering positive, diverse, and inclusive spaces where queer and transgender identified migrants find safety, support, and empowerment. Its Goals include the following :-
Provide Safe Spaces: We create safe, welcoming, and affirming spaces where queer and trans migrants can express their authentic selves, free from discrimination and persecution.
Celebrate Diversity: We celebrate the rich tapestry of cultures and identities that queer and trans migrants bring to our community, recognizing that diversity is our strength.
Advocate for Rights: We champion the rights and dignity of queer and trans migrants, working to eliminate systemic discrimination and address the unique challenges they face in immigration and settlement processes.
Empower and Educate: We empower queer and trans migrants with the knowledge, resources, and tools to navigate the complex immigration system and integrate successfully into our community.
Foster Inclusivity: We promote a culture of inclusivity within Windsor-Essex County by engaging in community outreach, education, and awareness campaigns that challenge stereotypes and promote acceptance.
Collaborate and Network: We collaborate with local organizations, government agencies, and other stakeholders to build a network of support and resources for queer and trans migrants.
He raises funds via these organizations for LGBTIQ+ migrants and asylum seekers to go about settling in South Africa and other countries of refuge. He has given talks and interviews on local television media and social media platforms about the injustices, hate crimes, and activism for queer migrants. He has presented these issues at conferences held by the United Nations, Amnesty International, Access Chapter 2, the Fruit Basket, and OUT LGBTI.
He has written multiple articles for online media houses in South Africa including Mamba Online, Exit, and international blogs raising awareness of the gender identities and sexualities of LGBTIQ+ migrants. He has sat on the committee of Pretoria Pride as a representative for issues related to queer migrants.
His own life story as an LGBTIQ+ asylum seeker has been chronicled in the collection of autobiographies in the book titled Seeking Sanctuary: Stories of Sexuality, Faith, and Migration (2021: J Marnell, University of Wits University Press).
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