Hidden Voices, S2: Brunei

“While at the moment we do feel safe, the uncertainty comes from what is written in the law so there is the fear that may use it as their basis and purpose for acting upon it”

In this episode, we speak to friends Serena (She/Her) a transgender woman, and Naz (She/Her) a lesbian woman, both from Brunei. As a predominantly Muslim nation known for its anti-LGBT laws, Serena and Naz give us a first-hand account of what life is like in Brunei for the LGBT community. While life is anything but easy, the resilience of both Serena and Naz is something to be admired, as, despite the conservative views which exist in their town, they continue to be proud of their identity, using the platforms of dance in the case of Serena and the skills of a visual artist in regard to Naz to express themselves. Read below to hear more about their story:

“I think hesitancy and a sense of fear are always going to be there unless there are officials who make it clear that it is actually OK, but in terms of safe spaces, I constantly have this conversation with Serena about how much we want to have a safe space. There has been a rise in the community coming together and creating a dialogue where people share their experiences”