Embracing Diversity and Fostering Inclusion
Throughout Pride Month 2026, our "Y Belong" campaign celebrated the stories, people and communities that make the Y a place where everyone can feel seen, valued and respected.
From personal stories shared by staff and volunteers, to creative centre initiatives, Pride Month highlighted the many ways belonging comes to life across Y Queensland.
Sharing Pride Across Our Communities
This year, we invited teams across Y Queensland to take part in the Y Belong – Share Your Pride Challenge, encouraging centres and services to share photos and videos celebrating Pride in their own unique way.
From colourful displays and community celebrations to moments of allyship and inclusion, every submission showcased the many ways belonging is expressed across the Y.
Everyone celebrates Pride in its own way. These stories highlight just some of the ways our teams created opportunities for conversation, connection and belonging throughout Pride Month:
Outside School Hours Care
Our OSHC services explored the themes of Everyone Belongs and Diverse Families throughout Pride Month. Through conversations, daybook activities, creative experiences and poster competitions, children were encouraged to celebrate the many different family structures, identities and backgrounds that make up our communities. These activities reinforced the message that every child and every family is valued, respected and belongs.
Y Strathpine Op Shop
Y Op Shop Strathpine shared Anna's story as a proud mum of a non-binary child, Anna spoke about the importance of creating safe, welcoming spaces where everyone feels accepted for who they are. Her story is a reminder that fostering inclusion is often achieved through the simplest acts of kindness, understanding and acceptance, helping people feel seen, valued and that they truly belong.
Y Camp Warrawee
A special shoutout to Tegan and Kate-Lyn, two amazing members of our kitchen team and business partners, for baking a stunning Pride cake and cupcakes. Their colourful and delicious creations beautifully captured the spirit of Pride and creativity at the Y.
Y WIRAC Fitness Centre
The team at WIRAC created giant rainbow wings displayed at the centre, encouraging members to take photos and show their support for the LGBTQIA+ community. A bright, interactive, and powerful symbol of pride and unity.
Y Kingston Senior Campus
Their joyous two-day Pride Celebration, featuring a beautiful rainbow handprint and heartfelt messages from students, truly captured the essence of Pride.
Y Victoria Point Gymnastics
Their vibrant video creatively blended gymnastics and Pride themes, showcasing their spirit and inclusivity.
Personal Stories that Inspire
Maddie Hilker (she/her), a mentor at YMCA Queensland Youth Parliament, defined Pride as inclusivity. She highlighted the challenges faced by LGBTQIA+ communities in regional areas, emphasising the importance of being open and asking questions to better support the community.
Soro (he/him), a trans man from Y Schools Queensland, shared that Pride means acceptance. He delivered a powerful message to the trans community, reassuring them that, although self-discovery takes time, everyone finds their way in the end. Soro encouraged allies to educate themselves about gender identities and not to fear asking questions.
Kai (he/him), a 2024 Youth Member from Macalister, described Pride as a journey of acceptance, inclusivity, and comfort. He emphasised the joy of discovering and being proud of one’s true self.
Sandra (she/her), a cisgender woman and teacher at Y Schools Queensland, conveyed that Pride represents wholeness. She advocated for accepting and valuing everyone, regardless of their identity, reinforcing the inclusive atmosphere at our Y Schools.
We extend our heartfelt gratitude to all participants whose stories highlighted crucial LGBTQIA+ issues and showcased diversity at Y Queensland.
