Welcome to the GLAD Foundation’s blog, where we focus on LGBTQIA empowerment in India. My name is Sonali Khan, and I’m the founder of GLAD Foundation. Today, I want to share the story of how GLAD came to be, the challenges we’ve faced, and the vision that drives us forward. This blog will be a space where we share our journey, our successes, and our struggles as we work to empower the LGBTQIA community in India.
The Birth of GLAD Foundation
GLAD Foundation was born out of a deep personal passion for creating a more inclusive and supportive environment for LGBTQIA individuals in India. As a transgender woman, I have experienced firsthand the discrimination and barriers that so many in our community face. These experiences fueled my desire to make a difference and to build a space where LGBTQIA individuals can not only survive but thrive. When I started Glad Foundation, the road ahead seemed daunting, with no major funding and limited experience. Yet, the vision of LGBTQIA empowerment in India kept me going. I envisioned a world where every LGBTQIA person has the opportunity to contribute fully to society, supported by a community that values and uplifts them.
Our Mission and Vision
At GLAD Foundation, our mission is simple yet profound: to empower LGBTQIA individuals through leadership development, legal support, and economic opportunities. We believe in creating an inclusive society where every LGBTQIA person has the resources and support needed to thrive. Our vision is to see an India where LGBTQIA individuals are not just participants but leaders in their communities, driving positive change and contributing to a more inclusive society. We are committed to fostering an environment where every person, regardless of identity, can achieve their full potential.
The First Steps in LGBTQIA Empowerment in India
Starting an organization from scratch is no small feat, especially without financial backing and experience. But every journey begins with a single step, and GLAD Foundation is no different. Our early initiatives, such as the “Election and Us” project and the “Virtual Community Listening Sessions,” were small but significant. These efforts helped us build connections, learn from our community, and lay the groundwork for future growth. They also marked our initial contributions to LGBTQIA empowerment in India. One of the most valuable lessons we’ve learned is the importance of listening to our community. These early projects taught us that while we may not have all the resources, we have something even more powerful: a deep commitment to making a difference and a willingness to learn and grow.
This journey is just beginning, and we want you to be a part of it. Whether you’re interested in volunteering, donating, or simply following our progress, your support is invaluable. Together, we can create a more inclusive and supportive world for LGBTQIA individuals. Stay connected with us by subscribing to this blog or following Glad Foundation on Instagram for more updates. We’ll be sharing stories, insights, and more as we continue to grow and learn.
The path ahead may be challenging, but it’s also filled with hope and possibility. At Glad Foundation, we believe that by working together, we can create lasting change. This blog is more than just a platform for sharing our story—it’s a call to action, an invitation to join us in building a future where LGBTQIA empowerment in India becomes a reality. Thank you for being a part of this journey. Together, let’s make a difference.
—Sonali Khan, Founder