Diverse Empowerment Foundation: Dismantling stigma and creating lasting impact

In our mission to bring about structural change to improve health systems and the well-being of people around the world, collaborating with partners is essential. It ensures that our work is aligned with the local context and most urgent needs. Partners bring valuable expertise and knowledge and strengthen the capacity of their communities.

In the Make Way programme, which focuses on improving sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR) outcomes for the most vulnerable people, one of our key partners is the Diverse Empowerment Foundation. They are a grassroots organization that advocates for the rights, inclusion, and empowerment of LGBTQ+ individuals and persons with disabilities. We sat down with Gracie Brendah, SRHR Advocacy Officer at Diverse Empowerment Foundation, to learn more about their important work, collaboration with Wemos and joint impact.

Can you tell us about the work of Diverse Empowerment?

“Our mission is to create a world where marginalized communities have access to equal opportunities, dignity, and the support they need to thrive. We focus on human rights advocacy, mental health support, economic empowerment, and capacity-building initiatives. Through one of our programmes,  we equip individuals with entrepreneurial skills, mentorship, and resources to foster self-sufficiency. We also provide psychosocial support and peer counselling, recognizing the deep mental health impact of discrimination and exclusion.

Our research and awareness campaigns highlight the intersectionality of disability and LGBTQ+ rights, ensuring these communities are not left behind in social justice efforts. We work closely with policymakers, allies, and organizations like Wemos to advocate for inclusive policies, improved healthcare access, and systemic change. At Diverse Empowerment Foundation, we believe in the power of community-driven solutions, strategic partnerships, and storytelling to dismantle stigma and create lasting impact. Our work is rooted in resilience, dignity, and the belief that every person deserves a future where they can live freely, safely, and with pride.”

What are some challenges that you face?

“Our biggest challenges include systemic discrimination, limited funding, and accessibility barriers. Many of those we serve face social exclusion, legal restrictions, and healthcare inequalities. Despite these challenges, we remain committed to advocacy, education, and community-driven solutions to ensure dignity, equality, and lasting change.”

What have you been partnering on with Wemos?

“Together, Diverse Empowerment Foundation and Wemos/Make Way advocate for visibility that addresses the unique challenges faced by LGBTQ+ individuals and persons with disabilities. We work to challenge systemic barriers, raise awareness of health inequalities, and push for policies that ensure dignity and accessibility in healthcare systems. Through this partnership, we strengthen our advocacy efforts, engage key stakeholders, and equip communities with the knowledge and tools to demand better healthcare rights.”

What has the impact of our collaboration been?

“Our partnership with Wemos has strengthened advocacy by amplifying the voices of LGBTQ+ individuals with disabilities. Through the Make Way #SeeMe campaign, we’ve highlighted our work and advocated for inclusive SRHR services. This collaboration has also enhanced community awareness and empowerment, equipping marginalized groups with knowledge to advocate for their rights. Most importantly, seeing individuals gain confidence in demanding equitable healthcare services reaffirms our commitment to ensuring lasting, meaningful impact.”

To end, could you share a quote that inspires your work?

“At Diverse Empowerment Foundation, we are guided by the powerful words of Audre Lorde:
“When we speak, we are afraid our words will not be heard or welcomed. But when we are silent, we are still afraid; so, it is better to speak.” – Audre Lorde

This quote embodies our commitment to amplifying marginalized voices, challenging injustices, and advocating for dignity and equality. We believe that silence enables oppression while speaking up creates change. Every step we take—whether through advocacy, empowerment, or policy work—is rooted in the belief that every individual deserves to be seen, heard, and valued.”