Founded on 7 September 2023, Initiative for Youth Health Rights and Education Empowerment (IYHREE) is an unregistered organisation with the goal to improve the quality of life of LGBTQI, specifically trans, intersex and gender non-conforming, youth in northern Nigeria by providing them with the tools they need to make informed decisions about their health and wellbeing, and by advocating for their human rights. The organisation was founded by Mx Cookie, Juju Bee and Kira Earl La Posh. Kira is the current Executive Director.

Vision

To create an inclusive and supportive environment where young LGBTQI, specifically trans, intersex and gender non-conforming individuals can freely express themselves, access education and healthcare services, and thrive without discrimination or harassment.

Mission

To educate and empower LGBTQI, specifically trans, intersex and gender non-conforming youth in northern Nigeria by promoting health rights and education and specifically advocating for their equal rights in the society.

Projects

One of IYHREE’s projects is the in-person focus group and survey launched in partnership with ReportOUT. The focus group discussion took place in Northern Nigeria (Kaduna State), with the aim of gathering feedback and insights from these marginalised communities about their access to healthcare services. This collaboration focuses on addressing the healthcare needs of trans, intersex, and nonbinary individuals in Nigeria, with a goal of advocating for better access to quality care for these marginalised communities. Through this partnership, both organisations are working towards promoting inclusivity and equality in healthcare services for all individuals. The focus group discussion provided a platform for members of the trans, intersex, and nonbinary communities to share their stories, voice their concerns, and discuss potential solutions to improve access to healthcare services.

The online survey conducted was designed to collect information on the experiences and challenges faced by trans, intersex, and nonbinary individuals when seeking healthcare services. It covers a range of topics, including discrimination, lack of access to gender-affirming care, and barriers to receiving quality healthcare services.

The data collected from the survey and focus group discussion will be analysed and used to inform advocacy efforts aimed at addressing the systemic barriers that prevent trans, intersex, and nonbinary individuals from accessing quality healthcare services in Northern Nigeria. This information will also be used to develop recommendations for policymakers, healthcare providers, and other stakeholders to improve healthcare access and outcomes for these communities.

According to Kira, IYHREE’s Executive Director,

“The partnership between IYHREE and ReportOUT represents a significant step towards advancing the rights and well-being of the trans, intersex, and nonbinary communities in Northern Nigeria. By listening to their voices and experiences, we can work towards creating a more inclusive and equitable healthcare system that meets the needs of all individuals, regardless of their gender identity.”

Contact

Email: johnhyacinth44@gmail.com / iyhree0@gmail.com
+2349060933842
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