Volunteers Week: meet Zy

My name is Zy (they/them)

I’m a PhD researcher at the University of Glasgow. My work focuses on creating safe and inclusive spaces for LGBT+ people in higher education.

How did you find out about LGBT Health and Wellbeing and what was your journey to becoming a volunteer?

I first heard about LGBT Health and Wellbeing through a friend I met during my Master’s in Glasgow in 2013. When I returned to Glasgow in 2018 for my PhD, my partner encouraged me to attend one of the organisation’s events. The first event I went to was a free session at the Cat Café. My partner loves cats and suggested I try it. After attending, I realised how much I enjoyed these LGBT+ events. I kept going, made friends, and became a regular attendee.

Later, I applied to be a See Me Proud Community Champion, which was my first volunteer role. After some time, I applied to join the Board of Trustees and became a Trustee in 2021.

Can you tell us a little bit more about your role?

As a Trustee, I help with the strategic and administrative side of running the organisation. As a See Me Proud Community Champion, I organise activities that challenge mental health stigma within the LGBT+ community.

What are you most proud of as a volunteer?

I’m proud to be part of the community, building connections, and sharing stories. This space allows people to share experiences of stigma and discrimination while also highlighting their unique journeys. For me, it feels like a second family. Contributing to this dynamic and supportive environment is something I’m deeply proud of.

What do you hope to achieve as a volunteer?

When I started attending events, I found them to be safe and supportive. Now, as a volunteer, I want to reach more LGBT+ people and create those same welcoming spaces. I want to remind people that they are accepted, loved, and appreciated. It’s important to show that it’s okay to be yourself, even when society tells you otherwise.

What would you like to change for the community?

I’d love to see global LGBT+ equality. My dream is a world without prejudice or discrimination, where safe spaces aren’t necessary because every space is welcoming.

Do you have a role model? Someone that inspires you?

My friend Eric Manalastas comes to mind. In the Philippines, he’s a pioneer in LGBT+ psychology and helped create the Psychological Association of the Philippines LGBT Psychology Special Interest Group. This group was crucial for my personal and professional growth.

Eric taught me to create what you wish existed and to be the person you needed as a child. Volunteering with LGBT Health and Wellbeing is one way I live out that advice. I applied to be a See Me Proud Champion and a Trustee because I wish I’d had LGBT+ role models and organisations like this when I was younger.