Queer Voices of Bhutan – Together Stronger

Step into the vibrant world of queer women who defy norms and carve their paths of resilience, success, and empowerment. These stories illuminate the triumphs of individuals who navigate societal challenges with grace, breaking barriers and amplifying their voices with unwavering determination. From overcoming discrimination to embracing authenticity, join us on a journey celebrating the diverse narratives and inspiring journeys of queer women shaping the landscape of empowerment in our communities.

1. Ugyen Yangchen Lhamo (SHe/her)

“Discovering belonging within my community has been empowering. The transgender community still endure discrimination in the entertainment industry and public spaces, but acceptance from families and societies has grown over time. From childhood restrictions on wearing kira to proudly working for a Bhutanese queer organization, transgender women like myself see a glimmer of hope. Additionally, family support has played a pivotal role in fostering self-acceptance, emphasizing the significance of parental acceptance within our community. Together, we continue to advocate for inclusivity and understanding, striving for a future where all queer women and non-binary individuals are celebrated and respected.”

Rinzin GALLEY (SHe/he/they)

Navigating my path, I found solace within the LGBTQIA+ community, embracing my identity and pronouns: He/him, she/her, they/them. Evolving from a cisgender gay to proudly nonbinary, I’m fortunate to have unwavering support. Since 2017, I’ve pursued my passion in the beauty industry, achieving milestones like owning a salon. Empowered by my journey, I advocate for increased representation, understanding that while grasping pronouns may pose challenges, it’s crucial for acceptance. I’m optimistic about society’s evolving understanding and acceptance of diverse identities, believing that visibility paves the way for a more inclusive future.

Yeshey Dema (She/Her)

Growing up in a society with rigid gender norms, I felt the weight of conformity. My mother’s words, “Be true to yourself,” offered solace amidst the judgmental glances. Attracted to women, I struggled internally, unaware of others like me. Discovering the LGBTQIA+ community brought clarity, and with my mother’s support, I embraced my identity. Puberty brought turmoil, but understanding gender and sexuality eased the journey. Comfortable with she/her/they/them pronouns, I found peace in being a woman. Thankfully, my community embraced me, fostering acceptance and understanding. Advocacy and awareness have paved the way for societal acceptance, marking milestones in my journey of self-discovery and acceptance.

Regita Gurung (She/her)

Queerness has been integral to my journey since adolescence, but it was through studying gender studies in undergrad that I fully embraced it. Surrounded by empowering feminists, I found safety and understanding, embracing she/her pronouns. Navigating patriarchal systems remains a challenge. Embracing my queer identity marks a milestone, motivating me to advocate for others. Inclusive decision-making is vital for women’s empowerment. Education on LGBTQ+ issues fosters empathy. Safe spaces and tailored resources are crucial. Celebrating achievements validates contributions. Advocating for legal protections ensures full inclusion. Together, we uplift queer women and non-binary individuals towards equality and acceptance.

Tshering Tshokey (She/her)

My journey as a transwoman has been about self-love and transcending societal labels, embracing my LGBTQI+ identity deeply personally and challenging stereotypes. Through introspection, I gained empathy and a stronger sense of community. My preferred pronouns are she/her, reflecting respect, safety, visibility, and trust in fostering connection within society. Discrimination, microaggressions, limited healthcare access, internalized stigma, and marginalization are persistent challenges. Representing the transwoman community amidst societal marginalization has been a significant milestone, fostering personal growth and empowerment beyond labels. Inclusive policies, accessible healthcare, increased representation, support for LGBTQ+ organizations, and the creation of safe, inclusive spaces are essential steps towards equality and empowerment.