Other Projects

MSM Chemsex Programme

We partnered with the Elton John AIDS Foundation to launch an innovative pilot project to improve the well-being of MSM who engage in Chemsex in Soweto. The programme will enhance the detection of HIV, improve retention of those diagnosed with HIV on ART, and support their overall health and social outcomes with medical and mental health services.

The project will also raise awareness and promote harm reduction practices and will work to reduce stigma, provide sensitisation training to service providers and influence policy to recognise and support the needs of this group.

Bazwa LGBT+ Youth Mental Health Programme

A pilot project supported by Grand Challenges Canada which includes a WhatsApp platform for LGBT+ youth to enhance access to online and offline mental health services and resources.

It will also enhance parental understanding of mental health and employs peer support among parents as an effective way to help their LGBT+ children. The project utilises cognitive behavioural therapy and psychotherapy to alleviate minority stress processes, focusing on depression, anxiety, internalised homophobia, and resilience.

Through the Bazwa project, we aim to create a scalable mental health model for use in all OUT programmes.

LGBT Refugees and Asylum Seekers Support Project

Funded through the US Embassy’s Julia Taft Fund, this project provides support to LGBT Refugees and Asylum Seekers in South Africa to navigate the Department of Home Affairs application process.

It also offers shelter assistance, including the provision of sanitary and hygiene products, and a safe space for LGBT asylum seekers and refugees to access mental health assistance and to develop networking opportunities for economic advancement, and other support networks.

Sexualised Drug Use Project

Funded by Love Alliance, this project addresses sexualised drug use (SDU) among under-resourced men who have sex with men (MSM), sex workers, and transgender individuals in South Africa. It will conduct a needs analysis in townships in Johannesburg and Cape Town and develop a comprehensive HIV and sexual and reproductive health and rights service package. Additionally, the project will advocate for the inclusion of key populations engaged in SDU in decriminalisation efforts, programme design, resource mobilisation, and the development of national guidelines on SDU and harm reduction.