S1E47: 47| Keeping it Real

Has opens up about his life growing up as a gay child living in a strict, conservative Muslim family from Sri Lanka. Being gay was not openly accepted in his family and he ensured that he kept his sexuality private. Growing up he felt conflicted and struggled with his identity. Has does not discuss his personal life or his sexuality with his family. He laments the lack of relationship with his family due to not being able to be completely open. He had his own distressing #metoo experiences as he was raped more than once as a teen by an older man. These difficult aspects of his life led him to attempt suicide twice when he was younger. He has worked hard to come to terms with this trauma and is involved in the current #metoo movement, where he hopes to overcome the stigma of abuse and find the space to speak about his experiences. Has is a passionate LGBTQIA activist and human rights defender, and has founded his own non-profit organization, ‘We the People’. He is hoping to help the more vulnerable members of the population by building a platform using technology to create change. A listener note: If you feel you need support, please visit your local GP, a counsellor or contact the Samaritans in Hong Kong on 28960000. If you live in another country, please contact your local Lifeline or Crisis Centre in your area. Hong Kong Confidential Details Email: [email protected] Network: https://www.auscastnetwork.com/home/hong-kong-confidential Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/hongkongconfidential/ Twitter: www.twitter.com/juleshannaford/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hongkongconfidential/ Subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Stitcher, YouTube and anywhere you find your podcasts.  Support the show: https://www.patreon.com/hongkongconfidential?alert=2See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.