Coming out the “closet” is different for everyone. You will be confronted with questions and confusion regarding religion, family acceptance, bullying, fitting in, stereotyping and equality. WQMD – aka We’re Queer My Dear – is a new online series launching in April 2019 and premiering on MambaOnline, that aims to help.
It consists of a panel of celebrities and social media influencers who all fall within the LGBTIQ+ community. Every week they will be discussing various topics: a quick 1,2,3 guide in helping you to come out, step up and live YOUR life to the fullest. With some weekly topics they will also invite specialists in certain fields, e.g. religion, to give their input and clarity and cover as much information on the specified topic.
The series and concept was created by Shenay O’Brien with overseeing director, Jennis Williamson, from Life in a Bulb Productions. Both are passionate individuals who want to make a change in their communities.
What sparked this project for O’Brien and Williamson was the need to open healthy discussions within South African society and to help and assist those who are in need of guidance and support; hearing real life stories of individuals living openly and publicly. “We would have loved to have something like this when we we’re trying to find our feet and come to terms with our sexuality,” says Williamson.
It’s 2019 and the suicide rate among LGBTIQ+ individuals is at an all-time high. This series will not only help and assist LGBTIQ+ communities but also give broader society a look at the struggles, obstacles and challenges we face on a daily basis as well as embracing, accepting and celebrating those who are different, unique and living their truth, despite the constant criticism. Read more via Mamba
Watch WQMD Episode 4: Bullying
The topic of bullying is the subject of the fourth episode of WQMD (We’re Queer My Dear) – an online web series that looks at issues and challenges facing the LGBTIQ+ community in South Africa.
Many of us have likely experienced bullying; defined as unwanted and aggressive behaviour against someone who is perceived as being vulnerable or different.
It’s usually associated with school children but can happen at any time in life, including in the workplace, in the family and online. LGBTIQ+ bullying can have long term effects on self-esteem and has been linked to higher rates of suicide among teens.
This is a very personal episode as the WQMD panel share their own encounters and experiences with bullying.