We acknowledge that everything happening now and over the last 18 months has impacted students in a big way. We could have also been hit by family challenges, changes in relationships and interests, grief, living alone, exam and work stress, as well as all of the other things involved with being a human!

This group is an open, inclusive and non-judgemental space for LGBTQ+ folx to connect, discuss, learn and support one another.

Who is this for?

This discussion group is for all students (aged 18+) who identify as Punjabi and/ or South Asian whether culturally, geographically or linguistically, and this is a queer affirmative space for those who personally identify with or are questioning any aspect(s) of their gender, sexuality and relationship diversity. It is open to those of all faiths and none.

This group is open to students from different cultural backgrounds, as long as they are comfortable in a space that is sensitive to South Asian cultures.

What will this discussion focus on?

This session is one of three open support space sessions, which are invitations to gather together - to connect with ourselves and each other, as a support and antidote to what has been (and may continue to be) difficult experiences during the Pandemic. So bring yourselves, your experiences, dilemmas, celebrations and questions.

Together, we will foster a safe, open, non-judgemental and inclusive space, where we can share our current experiences and those from over the past 18 months (whatever that has looked like!) and explore our wellness.

This space offers a place for self-expression and peer support through attentive listening and sharing, and a chance to connect with other students around the country and world. You can raise your awareness, further develop self-care and engage in an inclusive space that is open to all discussions concerning student life, identity, culture and wellness.

This session will be held/facilitated by Kirath (they/ she) of The Open Minds Project, along with a co-facilitator.

In our session we may want to think about questions such as:

What would I like from this support space?

How do I track and take care of my mental/physical/spiritual health? If at all

When/ where do I encounter difficult experiences surrounding any aspect(s) of my identity?

Within our group discussions (and smaller/ breakout rooms), the session may involve invitations from Kirath for you to engage in creative/holistic/ mindful activities, which often includes using breathing and body awareness, movement/ expression. This is offered with the intention to increase awareness and self-care, and to compliment the areas of exploration and support we are discussing. Please note that these activities (in the same way as speech/chat) are always optional, and remember to only ever do/ share what is comfortable for you.

If there is anything you may need further support with (including access needs) during the session, please make either one of the facilitators or someone you are comfortable with aware of what is going on for you (speak-up or send a message in the chat - to the group or direct to an individual).

A bit about the facilitator

Kirath is an Integrative Psychotherapist working with individuals and groups, within the NHS, charity and community sectors and has a small private practice. Kirath’s approach is holistic, inclusive and creative, specialising in trauma and identity; inviting connections with all aspects of ourselves to gain better awareness, empowerment and sense of wellbeing.

Sign-in instructions

Places are limited so we recommend booking your space soon. Feel free to get two tickets and come along with a friend.

The meeting will be held via Zoom and sign-in instructions will be emailed in advance of the session. Please join the event promptly so we can start our session on time, and note that the meeting will be locked after 15 minutes. If you want any more info or have any accessibility requirements, please send an email to info@theopenmindsproject.org

We request that while in attendance you keep your videos on, this is for the comfort, safety, connection and inclusion of all group attendees.

See you soon!

If you need urgent support please make contact with:

SHOUT by texting 'SHOUT' to 85258 which is a 24/7 support line

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